Rembrandt: Commentary of Peter Greenaway's "Nightwatching"

Peter Greenaway's 2007 movie "Nightwatching" on Rembrandt depicts him as a godless, vulgar and existential artist more like the socialist intellectuals of early twentieth century Paris. It is clear that his intent and purpose was to capitalize on the four hundred year anniversary of his birth by sensationalizing human weakness while denigrate Rembrandt's life and character. In so doing he also brings disrepute to the Reform Church and Rembrandt's Dutch culture. This was a serious act, in my view, and should be addressed and corrected.

Rembrandt's exaulted works reveals his true character. His expression is who he was and is today. His sublime work indicates a cultured mind, a profoundly gifted student and a spiritually disciplined and worthy master. Greenaway's desire to vulgarize Rembrandt by painting a picture of him as cursing, swearing, often in tantrums and tirades, self-centered in every manner, obsessed with sexual gratification, and cunning is a foolishly weak attack upon a universally established fortress of light. To my understanding there is no reliable evidence to support these graphic claims; there is nothing written by notable and reliable scholars on the subject of Rembrandt's personal life that would suggest that he carried himself in the manner portrayed by Greenaway's movie. In his movie, perhaps these traits were meant to suggest the same characteristics of Greenaway's own character.

Similar iconoclastic acts to destroy the highest elements found in civilization are common practices among those obsessed with social leveling. Level if you will, but, do it on a foundation of truth and integrity.

I call upon others to address this matter, especially those of the Reformed Church of which Rembrandt was a member.