The Amy Adams True Story On Netflix That’s Stranger Than Fiction
Amy Adams has built a career out of playing a variety of characters, from the sweet southern Brenda Strong in Catch Me If You Can to the whimsical Disney princess in Enchanted and the sequel, Disenchanted, but she’s never struck as the type of actress to star in a Tim Burton feature. But then again, Big Eyes isn’t anything like the rest of Tim Burton’s dark but quirky filmography. This biographical art drama follows a woman whose husband’s fraudulent actions stole her art career, and the harrowing true story is currently available to watch on Netflix.
Amy Adams stars as the real-life artist Margarat Keane in Big Eyes, a Tim Burton drama about a scandal that rocked the art community.
Released in 2014, Big Eyes is a drama that delves into the intriguing and tumultuous life of artist Margaret Keane, portrayed with remarkable depth and authenticity by Amy Adams. The film sheds light on Margaret’s artistic genius, her complex relationship with her enigmatic second husband, Walter Keane (played by Christoph Waltz), and the groundbreaking legal battle that rocked the art world.
Big Eyes transports the audience back to the vibrant 1950s as Amy Adams’ Margaret Ulbrich leaves behind her past and embarks on a journey as a fresh divorceé and single mother watching over her daughter Jane. The pair travel to North Beach, San Francisco, where Margaret ultimately crosses paths with the charismatic Walter Keane. Keane is a man who captures her heart and who will eventually claim her artistry.
Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz play up the romance in Big Eyes as Margaret and Walter. As a divorced woman in the 1950s whose ex-husband is trying to take full custody of their daughter, Margaret is desperate and believes that Walter is her best hope for a happy future. As they form a deep connection, Margaret’s exceptional talent as a painter shines, particularly in her distinctive portraits of people with enchanting, oversized eyes.
Before Amy Adams and Chirstoph Waltz signed on, Big Eyes was going to star Kate Hudson and Thomas Haden Church.
Big Eyes poignantly captures the emotional and psychological nuances of Margaret’s life, brilliantly portrayed by Amy Adams, as she struggles to find her artistic voice, navigate a turbulent marriage, and maintain custody of her daughter. Walter’s cunning manipulation leads him to exploit her work, taking credit for her creations and perpetuating a web of lies that catapults them into the spotlight. The narrative beautifully intertwines themes of artistry, identity, and self-discovery, inviting viewers to ponder the blurred lines between truth and deceit.
The journey from concept to completion was a fascinating one for Big Eyes. Writers Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski meticulously crafted the script, negotiating with Margaret Keane herself for the rights to her life story. Initially set to star Kate Hudson and Thomas Haden Church, the film saw various changes in casting and direction before eventually signing on Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz. Tim Burton originally signed on to produce, but as the project began to unweave, he took over the helm as director, allowing him more ways to creatively infuse his distinctive style into the film.
Amy Adams delivers a tour de force performance as Margaret Keane in Big Eyes, capturing the artist’s vulnerability, resilience, and creative spirit. Her portrayal invites audiences to empathize with Margaret’s struggles and triumphs, forging a deep connection between the character and the viewers. Christoph Waltz, known for his compelling portrayals, adds layers of complexity to Walter Keane, skillfully navigating Walter’s charming façade and manipulative tendencies, making him a captivating and repelling character in equal measure.
The supporting cast, including Danny Huston, Krysten Ritter, and Terence Stamp, contribute to the film’s rich tapestry, further enhancing the narrative’s depth and emotional resonance.
Big Eyes wasn’t a massive success for Amy Adams, but it did earn $29 million at the box office.
Big Eyes received a warm reception from critics and audiences alike. The performances of Amy Adams and Christoph Waltz garnered particular praise, as did Burton’s departure from his signature style to explore a more grounded and emotionally charged narrative. The film’s thought-provoking themes and timely social commentary on the authenticity of art and the role of women in the art world struck a chord with viewers.
While not a blockbuster hit, Big Eyes left an unforgettable mark on cinema and contributed to the broader discourse on the recognition of female artists. Amy Adams’ Golden Globe-winning portrayal of Margaret Keane solidified her reputation as a versatile and compelling actress.
Big Eyes offers a captivating exploration of art, identity, and deception, anchored by Amy Adams’ remarkable performance and Tim Burton’s deft direction. As Margaret Keane’s journey from obscurity to empowerment unfolds on the screen, Big Eyes serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring struggle for artistic recognition and the courage it takes to unveil the truth.
