Start with the premise that the best documentaries are not “objective” but have a distinct personal point of view, and you can take this one as a lively and engaging screed against the move of the Barnes Foundation’s astounding collection of art (181 Renoirs, 69 Cezannes, 59 Matisses, 46 Picasso’s, and much more.) from suburban Lower Merion to downtown Philadelphia. I would argue against its argument, but defend its expression. Director Don Argott’s view of the situation is partial, to say the least, but it is presented in a provocative and entertaining manner. And the case of the Barnes itself could hardly be more interesting in the diverse and challenging issues it raises, in its nexus of art and money; politics and race; competing personalities, communities, and values. This film does a good job of presenting one side of the story. But don’t come away convinced, until you’ve considered other perspectives, asked the questions this film does not choose to ask. The Barnes controversy is as much a matter of cultic fervor as cultural preemption. (2010, dvd.) *7-* (MC-75)
I’ll be showing this film at the Clark on Saturday, November 6th at 2:00 pm, and I hope to get my brother Chris, former editor at the Philadelphia Inquirer and current news director of public broadcasting in Philly, to come and provide some journalistic balance.
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