Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)

Scarlett Johansson is a luminous gem, redolent in an flawless setting. Her elegantly understated acting is iconic and unforgettable. In fact, the entire film is an illuminated canvas, every scene like a Vermeer painting. Johansson's Griet, her hair always hidden, is an innocent cherubic likeness who is sent by her blind father as a serving girl into the larger world where the rich evict the poor and the mercenary (Vermeer's wife and his patron) wield their machinations upon the gifted or vulnerable (Vermeer and Griet). She begins to come into her own as she takes on responsibilities and understands relationships in the household and community. She realizes she is drawn to and understands the marvels of light, color, and texture seen in the real world and reproduced on the artist's canvas. Vermeer perceives her artistic affinity and is drawn to her, probably desiring her, but for all their wistful chemistry they barely touch and they certainly never kiss. This is a very sensual film without being sexual in the least. It is true to the period and to an artist's sensibilities. There is a spirit and a texture to this film that inspires and illuminates; it is in fact spiritual. The story is subtle with the pacing of a promenade; one needs a depth of character to perceive the emotions and motives that lie beneath the surface. This is an intensely rewarding movie, for those who can recognize precious gems, expressed in spirit and in truth, when they see them. Five stars.