El Greco

"El Greco" is the engrossing story of the great artist's years in 16th century Toledo. With the preponderance of films dealing with English and French history in cinema, this film gives a much needed, rare and welcome glimpse of the Spanish culture's rich history. Ferrer accomplished an exceptional feat in producing this film and acting the title role. It is obviously a labor of love, with the costumes, settings, music, and events beautifully evocative. Having seen many of the works ("The Death of Count Orgaz", etc.) and the artist's Toledo workshop in person, I can vouch for the period authenticity. Some of the events will come as a surprise when the religious and mystical content of his work is considered. As the film portrays, El Greco ran afoul of the Inquisition and later produced some of his greatest works out of his greatest anguish. A must for lovers of art and Spanish history. Will we ever see a comparable film about the life of Velazquez, another of the many immortal masters of art this great nation has produced?