Big Eyes

Tim Burton directed this 2014 American biographical drama, working from a screenplay by Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski. The artist Margaret Keane (Amy Adams) is its subject: across the 1950s and 1960s her paintings — children with large eyes — became a sensation. After divorcing her first husband, Margaret moves to San Francisco with her daughter and meets the charming yet talentless painter Walter Keane (Christoph Waltz). They marry, and Walter begins to claim credit for Margaret's distinctive artwork, presenting it as his own. His savvy marketing skills lead to widespread popularity, with reproductions selling in massive quantities. Under pressure and threats from Walter, Margaret continues to paint in isolation, concealing the truth even from her daughter. Eventually, she recognizes the injustice of the situation and, after relocating to Hawaii, publicly asserts her authorship. This leads to a court case where the judge orders both to create a painting in the courtroom. Walter refuses, citing a sore arm, while Margaret completes her piece, proving her authorship. The film delves into themes of gender inequality, manipulation, and the struggle for recognition, while also questioning the value of art and the importance of truth in creativity.