Is J.M.W. Turner: Turner at the Tate Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1987)

📖 The Core Premise

J.M.W. Turner: Turner at the Tate stands as a 1987 entry that attempts to leave its mark on the Documentary landscape. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "The works of Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775-1851), one of the best known English Romantic artists, still play a leading role in the art market to this day. Since 1987 the majority of his pictures have been exhibited at the Clore Gallery, a separate building of Tate Britain. Daniel Wiles visits the gallery to explore the life and works of this eccentric artist, and also talks to countless experts and artists in an attempt to establish what it is about William Turner’s pictures that still fascinates so many people."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Melvyn Bragg attempts to elevate the material, but the direction leaves them with little to work with. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Documentary. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is J.M.W. Turner: Turner at the Tate worth your time? If you appreciate Documentary films that take risks, this is likely a decent one-time watch. However, if you are looking for a flawless masterpiece, you might find some plot points predictable.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, J.M.W. Turner: Turner at the Tate misses the mark on several fronts. With a runtime of 53 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Skip It.