Discreetly shot at night using a mix of native 3D and some of the most advanced 3D technology available for cameras today THE TREASURES OF THE VATICAN MUSEUMS IN 3D is an amazing , dizzying tour through one of the most impressive and rare collections of art in the world today. Filmed in collaboration with the Vatican Museums Directorate , SKY 3D, a division of Britain’s Sky Broadcasting Group, leads us on a magnificent seemingly personal and intimate tour of the Vatican Museums’ famous art collection and the gigantic Sistine Chapel.
Established in 1506 by Pope Julius 11, the collection spans all epochs and cultures for over two thousand years. With the finely developed photographic techniques we can immerse ourselves in some of the major masterpieces of Western art history. It is as if we can touch the Laocoon sculpture and the Belvedere torso , dive into Caravaggio’s works and be overwhelmed by Michaelangelo’s towering ‘Last Judgement’ . It is in some ways as if we are having our own private guided tour.
Professor Antonio Paolucci , the director of the Vatican Museums , acts as our guide ( with English subtitles) leading us through the past, present and future of the Vatican’s astonishing collection – ranging from the calm and aloof yet stern Prima Porta Augustus , to the writhing , swirling Laocoon through to the 20th century works of Chagall, Dali. Lucio Fontana and many more.
Rows and rows of sculptures are glimpsed but we also see paintings by Van Gogh and the Impressionists, and masterpieces by such incredible artists as Giotto, Veronese ,Leonardo da Vinci , Tintoretto , Titian ,Bellini and Carravaggio.
Particular focus is given to Raphael’s ‘The School of Athens’, and also his ‘The Disputation of the Holy Sacrament’, both huge , crowded works . As well there is his amazing, soaring ‘ The Transfiguration of Christ’. and ‘The Liberation of St Peter’.
The rivalry between Michaelangelo and Raphael is mentioned and the Sistine Chapel with its Last Judgement’ is the grande finale. This is a major highlight, examined in great detail, dizzying with its overwhelming power. We also earlier see Michaelangelo’s ‘Pieta’ , now housed in St Peter’s Basilica , which shows the adult crucified Christ lying on the Virgin Mary’s lap .The marble seems real flesh , we can feel the Virgin’s suffering and it is as if we can reach out and touch the folds of her gown.
The dark work of Carravaggio is also featured.
The soundtrack was elegant and sweeping . The move from major artwork to the next artwork discussed was perhaps a bit awkward and overdone with swirling galaxies of marble dust and close-ups of an actor apparently meant to represent the creativity. inspiration and nobleness of the various artists.
There were some marvelous shots of the interior of the Museum and we also glimpsed some of the stunning vistas that could be seen from the windows of the Vatican.
A marvelous inspirational and educational documentary movie for art teachers and students, for lovers of art and for those planning a visit to Rome. It enabled us to see the artworks without the huge crowds. For those of us who are privileged to have already been, it makes us want to return and see them again.
Running time 90 mins.
THE VATICAN MUSEUMS 3D is screening at selected cinemas now