The Portrait (1993)

Synopsis: Arthur Penn is as strong as ever in this moving tale of a woman's understanding of her parents. When a painter returns home for a visit after a very long absence, she asks her elderly mother and... Arthur Penn is as strong as ever in this moving tale of a woman's understanding of her parents. When a painter returns home for a visit after a very long absence, she asks her elderly mother and father to model for one of her portraits. In the process, the family begins to reflect on the past and some of the still-unresolved conflicts that have existed between the parents and their child. Margaret feels left out of the intense love and devotion that her parents share with each other. She also thinks that they have little respect for her painting career. As she struggles to paint the old couple's portrait, she begins to discover more about them and eventually herself. Her exploration and discovery reveals to Margaret a way to be accepting of her parents and become happier in her own life. Based on Tina Howe's play PAINTING CHURCHES, which tapped deep family issues with honesty and clarity, Penn's film is a study of the often difficult realtionship between parents and children and a celebration of its success. Like ORIDNARY PEOPLE or the understated THE PIANO LESSON, THE PORTRAIT offers insight and inspiration on a universal and personal theme. [More]

Starring: Lauren Bacall, Gregory Peck, Cecilia Peck

Starring: Lauren Bacall, Gregory Peck, Cecilia Peck

Director: Arthur Penn

Director: Arthur Penn

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