Goltzius & the Pelican Company
Goltzius and the Pelican Company tells the story of Hendrik Goltzius, a late 16th century Dutch printer and engraver of erotic prints. A contemporary of Rembrandt and, indeed, more celebrated during his life, Goltzius seduces the Margrave of Alsace into paying for a printing press to make and publish illustrated books. In return, he promises him an extraordinary book of pictures of illustrating the Old Testament’s biblical stories. Erotic tales of Lot and his daughters, David and Bathsheba, Samson and Deliah and John the Baptist and Salome. To tempt the Margrave further, Goltzius and his printing company will offer to perform dramatisations of these erotic stories for his court.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1590s Haarlem, the famous printmaker Hendrik Goltzius is commissioned by a wealthy Duke to create a series of erotic engravings. To gather inspiration and authenticity for his controversial work, Goltzius and his "Pelican Company" embark on a journey to observe the sinful life of a newly married couple, leading to a provocative exploration of art, religion, and desire.
Critical Reception
Peter Greenaway's 'Goltzius & the Pelican Company' was met with a divided critical response, appreciated by some for its artistic ambition and challenging themes, while others found it overly didactic and visually overwhelming. Audience reception was similarly niche, appealing primarily to devotees of Greenaway's distinctive cinematic style.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its unique visual style and exploration of artistic creation.
- Criticized for its slow pace and sometimes opaque narrative.
- Noted for its provocative and often challenging thematic content.
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Fun Fact
The film's visual style is heavily influenced by the etchings and woodcuts of the Northern Renaissance, particularly the work of Hendrick Goltzius himself, with director Peter Greenaway meticulously recreating these aesthetics on screen.
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