The Bottom Line
Scarlett Johansson had one wild year with the release of "Girl With a Pearl Earring" and "Lost in Translation." Earning nominations from all sorts of critics groups, Johansson's performance in "Girl With a Pearl Earring" is understated and heartwrenching. Pick up this DVD to see one of America's brightest young actors at her best.
Pros
- Outstanding performances
- Captivating, well-paced story
Cons
- One of those movies that's almost too beautiful
Description
- 'Anatomy of a Scene' Featurette - 20 minutes of behind the scenes footage and interviews
- Music Video featuring Scarlett Johansson
- DVD Release Date: May 4, 2004
Guide Review - "Girl With a Pearl Earring" DVD Review
Scarlett Johansson, Colin Firth and Tom Wilkinson head up a stellar cast in "Girl With a Pearl Earring," directed by Peter Webber. Visually stunning, "Girl With a Pearl Earring" follows 17 year-old Griet (Johansson), a young woman who takes employment as a maid in the household of painter Johannes Vermeer (Firth). As the days pass, Griet and Vermeer form a unique bond, with Griet providing the inspiration for Vermeer's paintings. Wilkinson co-stars as wealthy - and wicked - Master van Ruijven who figures out the relationship between Griet and Vermeer and stirs up a hornet's nest by commissioning Vermeer to paint Griet, causing trouble between Vermeer and his wife, Catharina.While the performances in "Girl With a Pearl Earring" are strong, it's the beauty of the cinematography and the amazing production design that make this movie so captivating. Clothed in muted, warm colors, "Girl With a Pearl Earring" is best seen on the big screen, however it does translate fairly well to DVD. The DVD is lacking in the normal range of bonus features, but the 'Anatomy of a Scene' featurette is worthwhile viewing and provides a significant amount of insight into the filming of the movie.
