Ken Burns, the director known for his meticulous explorations of American history, turns his lens toward a new subject: Leonardo da Vinci. This two-part, four-hour documentary, airing on PBS this November 18th and 19th, marks Burns’ first deep dive into a non-American figure, examining the life and work of the quintessential Renaissance man.
While Burns typically focuses on subjects steeped in Americana, the decision to tackle da Vinci isn’t as much of a leap as it might seem. The documentary aims to connect da Vinci’s imaginative thinking to contemporary issues, particularly humanity’s relationship with nature – a theme relevant across time and cultures. Featuring split screens and a blend of historical images, video, and sound, the film attempts to bring the world of Renaissance Italy to life.
The film features commentary from experts and admirers, including filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, who discuss da Vinci’s influence and continuing relevance. Burns and his team explore da Vinci’s prolific notebooks, offering glimpses into his wide-ranging interests, from art and philosophy to engineering and anatomy.
The documentary also touches on da Vinci’s sexuality, as well as his insightful observations of the human condition. Furthermore, the film examines da Vinci’s struggles to complete ambitious projects, like the unfinished Adoration of the Magi and The Battle of Anghiari. Even his groundbreaking anatomical studies, including his early understanding of coronary atherosclerosis, get their due.
With original music by Caroline Shaw, performed by Attacca Quartet, Sō Percussion, and Roomful of Teeth, and narration by Keith David (da Vinci is voiced by Adriano Giannini), the film certainly has the production values one expects from Burns. Whether this approach works as well with an Italian Renaissance artist as it has with baseball or the Civil War, is the question viewers will consider. Educational materials for middle and high school classrooms will be available on PBS LearningMedia, no doubt providing ample fodder for classroom discussions and maybe even inspiring a few budding artists and inventors.
Tune in to PBS, PBS.org, or the PBS App on Friday, November 18, and Saturday, November 19, 2024, at 8:00-10:00 p.m. ET.
