Rene Magritte (Belgian painter, 1898-1967) was once quoted as saying there was no deep meaning behind his paintings.  He said the only thing behind his paintings was a wall.

The 1999 documentary Magritte: An Attempt At The Impossible challenges that modest statement.  The production offers interviews with the artist as well as theories on the history and influences behind his work.  In the fifty-five minute running time, the viewer becomes not only better informed but more curious about Magritte’s work and life.

The documentary is beautifully photographed, with embellishments that suit the artist’s work well.  When describing Magritte’s erotic work, nude models are featured in highly professional “morphing” videos.  The title is based on the name of his 1928 painting, Attempting The Impossible.

DVDs of this film are rare, but copies can be found for sale as well as for rent online.