Synopsis

Triumphs and Laments is a documentary that sees the meaning and symbolism of Kentridge’s work translate into another artistic language. The film chronicles William Kentridge’s most ambitious and controversial projects: a colossal frieze along the banks of the Tiber river in Rome portraying the glories and tragedies of the Eternal City that was commissioned in the summer of 2016. The film, shot with exclusive access to Kentridge over the course of two years from his home and studio in Johannesburg to the center of Rome, explores the link between Triumphs and Laments and the major themes in Kentridge’s practice, including racial equality and the complex relationship between spectacle and memory, among others. Detailing the artist’s vision and his creative process, the film also includes interviews with curators, researchers who have worked with Kentridge and his fans.