The Rape of Europa
War is hell, and as ably documented in The Rape of Europa, it can be particularly hard on art.
Playing to a packed, at times sniffling crowd (myself among the weepiest) at the Bartell, the movie documents the plunder and destruction of art -- Klimts, DaVincis, Vermeers, Rembrandts -- during the Third Reich.
Using vintage footage and heart-wrenching accounts from those affected, the movie provides a moving account of the evils perpetrated against a people to rob them of their identity by destroying their culture. It takes you from Krakow, to Paris, Florence, Pisa, St. Petersburg, and is amply and gorgeously illustrated with the paintings, sculpture in question.
The Rape of Europa screens again Sunday at 1 p.m at the Bartell, and if your WFF dance card isn't too full, I urge you to fit it into your schedule.
