GAUGUIN – VOYAGE DE TAHITI narrates the slow descent into hell of the painter, whom we will see gradually deteriorate, become more detached from the world, and sacrifice everything to persevere in his art without receiving the slightest recognition.
The account of the two years during which the painter stayed there (from 1891 to 1893) before being repatriated as an “artist in distress”, GAUGUIN – VOYAGE DE TAHITI depicts the man more than his work, which is somewhat unfortunate.
The die is cast; by choosing this rich and painful episode in the life of Paul Gauguin, the director is obliged to adopt a melancholic tone that will be reflected in the film’s colors, music, and narrative.
Of course, painting is inseparable from the artist; it is his driving force, even his addiction, but it is the traits of his character much more than those of his drawings that are highlighted.
Profound and intense, the landscapes are breathtaking, the gentle lights as sublime as they are unexpected, providing an incredibly believable backdrop to this exotic adventure, which starts in Paris but mainly unfolds on the island of Tahiti.
Constrained by his ideals through his solitary departure from Paris, his convictions, and his life choices, from which emanates a profoundly wild nature, it is the negative aspects of Gauguin that largely take over: selfishness, the inability to take care of or protect those he loves—starting with himself—the complete lack of limits in pursuing his passion that leads him to the brink, etc…
More dazzling than in any of his roles, Cassel captivates the screen and unwittingly overshadows his character.
Beside the harshness of Gauguin and his destiny, the presence of Tahuei Adams (Tahura, his muse), perfectly unknown yet equally talented, provides a counterbalance with her gentleness, dignity, and the wonderful smile of the actress portraying her.
