The documentary Hitler versus Picasso and the Others is premiering today at the Eden Cinemas.
In 1937 the Nazi regime held two exhibitions in Munich: one to stigmatise ‘degenerate art’, and one, personally curated by Hitler, to glorify ‘classic art’. Narrated by Toni Servillo (star of Oscar winner The Great Beauty), Hitler versus Picasso features a journey through five exhibitions, displaying masterpieces by Botticelli, Klee, Matisse, Monet, Chagall, Renoir and Gauguin.
Linked to each exhibition are moving stories of those who witnessed the systematic destruction and looting of the day – from the Bernheimer family, who were forced to barter their freedom, to ‘Hitler’s dealer’, Cornelius Gurlitt, known to have hidden away some of the most priceless art treasures of the century.
Revealing the Nazi obsession with art, Hitler versus Picasso offers viewers a rare look at condemned works that have finally come to light.
The documentary is showing today at 8.15pm, with limited shows also tomorrow and on Sunday. For tickets and more information, visit www.edencinemas.com.