Chasing Portraits Movie 2019
IMDb Rating: Approximately 7.3
“Chasing Portraits” is a documentary film directed by Elizabeth Rynecki, released in 2018. The documentary is a deeply personal and historical journey that explores the efforts of a woman to recover her family’s lost art collection stolen during the Holocaust.
Plot
The documentary follows the story of Elizabeth Rynecki, the great-granddaughter of Moshe Rynecki, a Jewish artist who created a significant body of work depicting the daily life and culture of Polish Jews in the early 20th century. Moshe Rynecki’s artwork documented a world that would be forever changed by the Holocaust.
During World War II, many of Moshe Rynecki’s paintings were seized by the Nazis, and they disappeared. Elizabeth Rynecki, driven by a deep desire to reconnect with her family’s heritage and recover her great-grandfather’s lost art, embarks on a journey spanning decades and continents. She travels to Poland, where she meets with historians, art experts, and individuals who may hold clues to the whereabouts of the missing artwork.
“Chasing Portraits” is not only a search for the lost art but also a poignant exploration of the impact of the Holocaust on a family’s legacy, the power of art to preserve memory, and the importance of cultural preservation.
Themes
“Chasing Portraits” explores themes related to family heritage, the lasting impact of the Holocaust, the role of art in preserving memory, and the resilience of individuals and communities in the face of historical trauma.
Cast
The documentary features Elizabeth Rynecki as herself, along with various individuals who play a part in her journey to recover her great-grandfather’s artwork.
Director and Production Team
- Director: Elizabeth Rynecki
- Producers: Elizabeth Rynecki, Aaron Hancox, and others.
Review
“Chasing Portraits” has received positive reviews for its deeply emotional and personal storytelling, as well as its exploration of the enduring power of art and family connections. It is lauded for shedding light on the lesser-known stories of lost art during the Holocaust and the importance of cultural preservation.
Conclusion
“Chasing Portraits” is a documentary that combines a personal family quest with a historical exploration of art, memory, and the impact of the Holocaust. It offers a heartfelt and poignant narrative that resonates with viewers who appreciate the significance of preserving cultural heritage and the role of art in telling the stories of the past. Elizabeth Rynecki’s journey to recover her great-grandfather’s artwork serves as a testament to the enduring power of art and the importance of remembering and honoring the past.