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Poster for Local Color

Local Color

2006 · 1h 47m · R Drama
Directed by George Gallo

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Overview

A successful artist looks back with loving memories on the summer of his defining year, 1974. A talented but troubled 18-year-old aspiring artist befriends a brilliant elderly alcoholic painter who has turned his back on not only art but life. The two form what appears to be at first a tenuous relationship. The kid wants to learn all the secrets the master has locked away inside his head and heart. Time has not been kind to the old master. His life appears pointless to him until the kid rekindles his interest in his work and ultimately gives him the will to live. Together, they give one another a priceless gift. The kid learns to see the world through the master's eyes. And the master learns to see life through the eyes of innocence again. This story is based on a real life experience.

Director and cast

Critics on Rotten Tomatoes

Top critics, in their words

All reviews
39%
Tomatometer
Fresh

Kriter-director George Gallo has given the stocky, ever-commanding Mueller-Stahl a heroic, bravura role and has been rewarded by the actor with a towering, complex portrayal that is surely among his finest.

Kevin Thomas, Los Angeles Times
Rotten

For a purportedly autobiographical work, the events of this labor of love from director George Gallo, fit seamlessly into the fabric of the standard coming-of-age movie.

John Tottenham, L.A. Weekly
Rotten

I suspect Local Color will lose those unfamiliar with the jargon and subtleties of the art world. Skip it.

Ben Mankiewicz, At the Movies
Rotten

Obviously a passio project for Gallo but he is never really able to translate that importance to the audience. We never really care or connect with these characters.

Ben Lyons, At the Movies
Rotten

The sweeping landscapes look flawless, but missing from Local Color's canvas is any nuance in its human elements.

S. James Snyder, Time Out New York

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