Review: Adams shines as artist caught in a lie in compelling ‘Big Eyes’

Posted on January 2, 2015

By MARK VIOLA

holder. When I first saw a trailer for director Tim Burton’s “Big Eyes,” I was instantly intrigued, both by the movie and the art of Margaret Keane. The film follows the true story of Keane, who in the 1950s and 60s painted thousands of big-eyed children, becoming something of a movement, breaking into the mainstream with posters and postcards and books. Only no one really knew who Margaret Keane was, because to everyone else, the paintings were the work of her husband, Walter Keane.

“Big Eyes” is at once a story about the struggles women faced at the time as well as the substance of art and the act of producing it. It’s also a compelling story of a woman caught in a lie and trapped in a marriage, with seemingly no escape from either.
Although the film could have been weightier than it ultimately is, it is buoyed by a phenomenal performance by Amy Adams (“American Hustle”) as Margaret Keane. In addition to being fascinated by Keane’s story, I left the movie with a strong desire for one of her paintings.

“Big Eyes” is an intriguing true story told in a film that features great performances and a solid hand at the helm. Unlike a lot of films out in theaters now, there is little to no action, but that by no means its story is any less compelling. If you’re looking for something different, this is definitely one to check out.

The film is rated PG-13 for thematic elements and brief strong language.

(This is a shortened version of the full review available in our printed or e-edition papers.)

Subscribe to our e-Edition and read the rest of the story. Already a subscriber? Click here to sign in.