Surviving Picasso (1996)

SURVIVING PICASSO, which is already gone from Triangle theaters, is 
also a snooze.  Anthony Hopkins gives another good performance in 
the title role, albeit one that's more English than Spanish.  His 
opposing star, however, newcomer Natascha McElhone, can't counter 
with an equally impressive range.  She doesn't make much of a dent 
as Francoise Gilot, Pablo's mistress and companion from '46 to '53.  
As a result, most of the movie's emotions feel decidedly one-sided.  
Handsome production, though, as expected from the producing and 
directing team of Ishmail Merchant and James Ivory.  And look for a 
few familiar faces, including Dennis Boutsikaris as an art dealer, 
Julienne Moore as former mistress Dora Maar, and Joss Ackland as 
the painter's friend and rival Henri Matisse.  (Rated "R"/123 min.)

Grade: C+

Copyright 1996 by Michael J. Legeros

Originally posted to triangle.movies in MOVIE HELL: December 8, 1996