M.C. Escher: Journey To Infinity

M.C. Escher: Journey to Infinity is a vividly compelling 2018 documentary that explores the life and legacy of the iconic Dutch graphic artist Maurits Cornelis Escher who was renowned for his detailed prints that combined realistic detail with mind-bending optical illusions. The movie features an impressive star cast, including the likes of Donald Coxeter, George Escher, and Jan Escher.

Donald Coxeter, a Canadian mathematician known as Mr. Geometry, provides an insightful narrative on Escher's mathematical inspirations. On the other hand, George Escher and Jan Escher, the sons of the Dutch graphic artist, offer fascinating, personal anecdotes from their father's life, enhancing the viewers' perception of the artist on a more intimate level.

Produced and directed by the internationally acclaimed filmmaker Robin Lutz, the film uncovers Escher's evocative life story through an impressive blend of interviews, expert analysis, and CGI animations of some of Escher's most iconic works. Notably, the film is distinguished by its exploration of the paradoxical relationship between the artist’s fear of recognition and his desperate need for approval – a struggle artistically embodied in his contradictory, impossible works.

The film commences with Escher's early years as an artist, where he was primarily inspired by nature and the beautiful landscapes he encountered during his travels. The audience is swept along his journey as he transitioned into his famous metamorphosis style, evolving his work into explorations of mathematical wonders and spatial geometry, presented in a distinct, visually arresting style. The film revisits popular Escher pieces, such as "Day and Night" and "Ascending and Descending,” in intimate detail, offering a fresh perspective on these well-known pieces.

M.C. Escher: Journey to Infinity doesn't restrict itself to merely conveying the technical aspects of Escher's work. It delves into the mind of this evocative artist, bringing to the surface a man consumed by a lifelong obsession with perspective, space, and worldviews that defy conventional logic, and the impact these fascinations had on his mental and emotional state. Furthermore, the film dramatically reveals how many mathematicians, scientists, and philosophers were beguiled by Escher's ability to visualise complex mathematical principles, even as he insisted he knew nothing about mathematics.

While the film is undeniably aimed at art and mathematics aficionados, it does not exclude those unfamiliar with this realm. With its balanced presentation of technical, art-historical, and biographical elements, the documentary provides a broad appeal. Its pieced-together narrative, consisting of hundreds of letters that Escher wrote to family and friends, provide a unique insight into Escher the man, as opposed to Escher the artist. The narrative is complemented by the voice of British actor Stephen Fry, whose articulate and engaging voiceover captures Escher's thoughts and feelings, revealing a man who was uncertain, self-critical, and continuously striving for perfection,

In addition, the documentary also addresses post-war political influences, particularly highlighting how Escher’s work was misinterpreted and co-opted by undesirable parties, leading to his apolitical art being labeled as political. This part of the movie paints a stressful time in the artist's life, subtly touching upon the broader societal issues of the time.

Immaculately presented with rich visuals and a coherent storyline, M.C. Escher: Journey to Infinity serves as an illuminating entry point for those unfamiliar with Escher's work while simultaneously offering new insights to those who are already fans of his enigmatic and intriguing oeuvre.

In a nutshell, M.C. Escher: Journey to Infinity is much more than a documentary about an artist; it's a heartfelt exploration of a man's ceaseless desire for understanding, perfection, and acceptance. From his personal struggles to his extraordinary achievements, the film presents an enriching depiction of one of history's most unique, influential artists. It is a journey into the infinite mind of M.C. Escher that fans of art, mathematics, and human genius shouldn't miss.