Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus

Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus is a biographical drama film that explores the life of the acclaimed photographer and artist, Diane Arbus. It is directed by Steven Shainberg and released in 2006.

Set in the 50s, the film portrays Arbus as a conflicted and curious housewife, played by Nicole Kidman, who lives with her husband, Allan Arbus, played by Ty Burrell. Allan is a successful fashion photographer who is supportive of Diane's creative aspirations but often ignores her need for attention.

The film starts with Diane noticing a new neighbor moving in; a man who is covered head-to-toe by hair, including his face. The neighbor, Lionel, is played by Robert Downey Jr. Lionel is a former circus performer and now a reclusive artist. He is intrigued by Diane's interest in him and it's not long before a relationship develops between the two, which delves into darker territory.

As Diane becomes increasingly dissatisfied with her life, she begins to stow away to Lionel's apartment, where she enters a world of fantasy and imagination. The film deftly weaves together several themes including mental illness, identity, and artistic expression. The result is an extremely rich and nuanced portrait of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

The centerpiece of the film is undoubtedly Nicole Kidman's performance. She effortlessly embodies the essence of Diane Arbus, a woman whose ideas were ahead of their time. Her acting ranges from quiet and contemplative to emotive and impassioned. The supporting actors also do an incredible job, with Ty Burrell standing out as Diane's husband, Allan, and Robert Downey Jr. giving a quirky and captivating portrayal of Lionel.

The film's production design is another standout feature. The stunning visuals and creative choices transport the viewer to another time and place, evoking 1950s New York with unparalleled accuracy. Shainberg's direction is also masterful, with his imaginative storytelling and bold cinematography providing a particularly satisfying viewing experience.

Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus has been met with mixed reviews in the years since its release. Some have criticized the film's surreal elements, suggesting that the creative choices distract from the story's central themes. However, many others have praised the film's inventiveness and its ability to capture Arbus' legacy as an artist.

In summary, Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus is a fascinating exploration of one of the most innovative artists of her time. The film's imaginative direction and standout performances make it an engaging and moving biopic. Although not for everyone, it's worth a watch for anyone interested in art, photography, and creativity.