The 97th Academy Awards are serving up a platter of who-gives-a-damn nominations, and Emilia Perez, a film so bad it makes Cats (2019) look like Casablanca, is their tasteless appetizer. But before you swear off movies forever and drown your sorrows in TikTok art tutorials, I’ve got an alternative that's better than the mexican answer to Jacques Audiard's abomination, Johanne Sacreblu. Two films about art, greed, and gallery-world chaos—My Masterpiece (2018) and Goodrich (2024)—are hiding in plain sight, and they’re everything the Oscars wish they had the guts to nominate. These movies expose the dark, hilarious truth about why artists and galleries are either soulmates… or sworn enemies.
"My Masterpiece": A dark comedy that explores the love-hate relationship between artists and their dealers
My Masterpiece is an Argentinian satire that paints a witty and provocative portrait of friendship and artistic integrity. The story revolves around Arturo, a suave yet unscrupulous art dealer, and his long-time friend Renzo, a talented but fading painter who's stubbornly stuck in his ways. As the art market turns its back on Renzo, fate and luck conspire to turn the art world upside down. No spoilers here, but let's just say it involves a blend of dark humor and clever twists that'll keep you hooked.
Why you will love it:
- The chemistry: The artist-dealer duo’s love-hate dynamic is toxic but weirdly relatable—like a group project where one of you definitely did all the work.
- The roast of art capitalism: It’s a brutal takedown of how galleries turn tragedy into profit (RIP, starving artists).
- The humor: This movie has a perfect balance between drama, suspense and humor that can keep you entertained for hours.
"Goodrich": An deep dive into the emotional story of a seen-better-days art gallery owner
Goodrich dives into the chaotic life of Andy Goodrich, a renowned gallery owner facing personal and professional upheavals. As he navigates a messy divorce and reconnects with his young children, Andy grapples with maintaining his reputation in the cutthroat art industry. The film offers an intimate look at how personal struggles can ripple through professional realms, especially in a world where image is everything.
Why It’s Genius:
- The acting: Michael Keaton gives us one of his most tear jerking performances since "My Life". Writer-director Hallie Meyers-Shyer wrote the title role specifically for Michael Keaton, "to the point where if he had said no, I would have buried it and myself in the backyard," she said.
- Authentic Glimpse into the Art World: The film authentically portrays the trust, tensions, and mutual dependencies that define the partnerships between artists and gallery directors. It sheds light on the behind-the-scenes dynamics that often remain hidden, providing viewers with a fascinating look at how art is curated, promoted, and valued.
- Emotional and Relatable Storytelling: The story touches on themes of trust, identity, and the complexities of human relationships, making it relatable to a wide audience.
Artists vs. Galleries: A Love Story (Or a Hostage Situation?)
Galleries need artists to stay relevant; artists need galleries to… well, eat. Both films nail the codependent tango between creators and their promoters with an unflinching exploration of the nuanced trust between them. They peel back the curtain on a world often glamorized, exposing the raw, messy, and deeply human relationships that drive creativity. It's not just about showcasing art—it's about understanding the symbiotic bond that can make or break careers. The mutual reliance, the unspoken tensions, and the delicate dance of egos are all captured with authenticity and grace.
These narratives remind us that behind every masterpiece hanging in a gallery lies a complex web of relationships. Trust isn't just a theme; it's the backbone of the art world depicted in these films. Artists pour their souls into their work, relying on gallery directors to honor and elevate their visions. In turn, directors stake their reputations on the artists they champion. It's a high-stakes partnership that's as thrilling as any blockbuster action scene.
And the Oscar goes to…
Let’s get real: Emilia Perez probably got nominated because of the obvious and flagrant OSCAR bait on which it is constructed. Meanwhile, My Masterpiece and Goodrich are serving satire, suspense, and scathing critiques of the art world while at the same time being entertaining and thought provoking. So why are such compelling stories absent from the Oscar spotlight? Perhaps it's easier to celebrate familiar formulas than to confront the intricate realities these films present. But that's all the more reason to seek them out.
