GKIDS Retrospective: 'The Painting'

We continue our series of reviews chronicling all of the (non-Studio Ghibli) animated films distributed by GKIDS Films — some of the most original and breathtakingly beautiful animated films from around the world — and how they hold up for a young American audience.

The entire retrospective is found here, and this time we’ve got…

The Painting (2011):
Jean-François Laguionie, director

What’s it about?

A kingdom exists within a painting where the people have come to life… and instituted a caste system among themselves. The nearly deified “Painter” who created the world – and all of them – mostly completed their painting, but it’s not entirely finished, and some of the figures aren’t totally done.

The colorful (and completely painted) Alldunns have declared themselves perfect – the painter’s ideal vision. Beneath them are the Halfies, who were left only partially finished, and the Sketchies, who are – as their name implies – mere scribbles that only hint at the outline of a human form.

In this world, the Alldunns treat the other two groups as outcasts unworthy of a place in the castle. They are ostracized and made to live in the surrounding woods. Yet there are a few who are able to see beyond these divisions… and in true Romeo and Juliet fashion, young Ramo (an Alldunn) and Claire (a Halfie) fall in love.

Chastised and ridiculed for their love, Claire runs off into the forest. Ramo and Claire’s best friend Lola go off in search of her, which leads them out of their painting, into the Painter’s studio, and into the worlds of other paintings. Along the way, they get close to a pair of Sketchies, make new friends with figures from other paintings, and ultimately find the Painter in the real world.

But will their journey to literally meet their maker bring them satisfaction?

What are the cultures at play? And how about the languages?

This is a French film and… how shall I put this? It’s very European. But not in an alienating-for-a-non-European way. There are no cultural barriers to understanding. Inequity and racism are sadly universal, so the messages of The Painting are equally valid and essential, regardless of the country or culture you call home.

Regarding language, I’ve seen the movie multiple times in both the original French and with the English dub. Both are good, and you’d be fine watching either version. I almost always opt for the original language, so if I have to recommend one, I’d go for the French. But the English dub is surprisingly good here.

Will my kids like it? Is there anything objectionable for young kids?

My daughter (now 11) loves this movie and has watched it numerous times over the past few years. Something about it just clicks with her. Its foundational messages of tolerance, equity, and inclusivity are also perfect for younger audiences. It’s never a bad time to remind kids there shouldn’t be arbitrary walls built up between us.

As far as “objectionable” content, there’s one sequence where the characters escape to the Painter’s studio and uncover some other paintings. One of those is a reclining nude. Our protagonists talk to and interact with her, all while she remains bare chested. Nothing is made of it, it’s never commented on, and it’s certainly not sexualized at all. But be aware that there are extended scenes of bare breasts if that somehow offends you.

Will I like it?

Ultimately, The Painting is a brilliant parable about class divisions, racism, and equity. It’s deceptively straightforward but has a LOT to say. And even though the film seems to focus on the relationship between Ramo and Claire, the film’s true hero is actually Lola.

Lola’s world is blown completely open by the adventure beyond their painting’s frame, and whereas everyone else returns to the painting by the end of the film, Lola embarks on her own journey of enlightenment. Having met her “god” (the Painter), she decides to keep going and discover the truth of his god.

It’s not often you find an animated film with such a deep, thought-provoking message. But it’s so incredibly refreshing.

The animation is also beyond compare. As intended, it truly does look like a watercolor painting come to life. And the scenes with the characters interacting in the real world and with the (very human) Painter are remarkable. We’ve come a long way from Who Framed Roger Rabbit?

How can I see it?

GKIDS and Cinedigm released a Blu-ray edition of the film with a few special features. Included is both the French and English audio tracks, a making-of featurette (in French), a slideshow of concept art, and the U.S. trailer. The film is also available digitally from most retailers and is on Kanopy for free (both language versions) with your public library card.