J'accuse is an 'essay-istic' documentary in which Greenaway's fierce criticism of today's visual illiteracy is argued by means of a forensic search of Rembrandt's Nightwatch. Greenaway explains the background, the context, the conspiracy, the murder and the motives of all its 34 painted characters who have conspired to kill for their combined self-advantage. Greenaway leads us through Rembrandt's paintings into 17th century Amsterdam. He paints a world that is democratic in principle, but is almost entirely ruled by twelve families. The notion exists of these regents as charitable and compassionate beings. However, reality was different.
Released: Oct 04, 2008
Runtime: 86 minutes
Genre: Documentary, Mystery
Stars: Peter Greenaway, Martin Freeman, Eva Birthistle, Jodhi May, Emily Holmes, Jonathan Holmes
Crew: Peter Greenaway (Director), Peter Greenaway (Screenplay), Bruno Felix (Producer), Femke Wolting (Producer), Kees Kasander (Producer), Marco Robino (Music)