Matthew Brown
Yes, the movie Big Eyes (2014) is based on the true story of Margaret Keane, an American artist who became famous in the 1950s and 1960s for her paintings of children and animals with large eyes, which were sold under her husband’s name. The movie depicts her struggle to claim ownership of her artwork and receive recognition as the true artist behind the popular paintings.
What is the true story behind the movie Big Eyes (2014)?
The movie Big Eyes is based on the true story of Margaret Keane, a prolific artist in the 1950s and 1960s who specialized in paintings of children with large, sad eyes. However, her husband Walter Keane claimed credit for her artwork and became famous as a result.
In reality, Walter Keane had little artistic talent and was a con artist who convinced gallery owners and the public that he was the true creator of the paintings. Margaret Keane was afraid to speak up because of threats of violence from her husband, and it wasn’t until they divorced and went to court that the truth came out.
In 1970, Margaret Keane challenged her ex-husband to a “paint-off” in front of a live audience, with both artists creating a painting of the same subject. Margaret’s victory in the challenge finally exposed Walter’s deception and led to her receiving the recognition and financial compensation she deserved.
The story of Margaret Keane serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of patriarchal and abusive relationships, as well as the importance of standing up for oneself and one’s artistic talent.
Are there any books about the true story behind the movie Big Eyes (2014)?
Yes, there is a book titled “The Art of Deception: The True Story of the Master Forger and Con Man who Sold the World’s Most Famous Fake Paintings” by Philip Hook, which covers the story of Walter Keane’s deception and the legal battle between him and his wife Margaret Keane, the real artist behind the “big eyes” paintings.
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