At Eternity's Gate

The film begins with a black screen where a man reflects on how he wishes to be perceived by others. This sets the tone for the exploration of identity and recognition in the world of art.

A man approaches a beautiful woman tending to sheep along a rustic country road. They engage in a tentative conversation in French, with him requesting to sketch her, only for her to hesitate at first.

A group of men deliberates on the treatment of artists, discussing policies that favor successful artists while burdening the less recognized ones. Paul Gauguin passionately objects to these attitudes, reflecting the struggles of artists.

Outside the gathering, Gauguin tells Van Gogh of his plans to travel to Madagascar for artistic freedom. He advises Van Gogh to consider the same path, marking a significant philosophical exchange between the two.

In the town of Arles, Van Gogh struggles to find his artistic voice within the confines of a dreary room. He resorts to painting his shoes, illustrating his frustration and search for inspiration.

Van Gogh meets Madame Ginoux in a local eatery where they discuss literature, particularly Shakespeare. She gifts him a book of blank pages, encouraging his artistic aspirations as they bond over their conversation.

Venturing into nature, Van Gogh finds renewed creativity. He captures the beauty of sunflowers and vibrant greens, emphasizing his belief that a painting can immortalize fleeting moments.

While painting among schoolchildren, Van Gogh faces their mischief, leading to a reprimand. This incident highlights the tensions often present between artists and the public's perception.

In a hospital scene, Van Gogh's brother Theo visits him, vowing to support him regardless of his struggles. This moment underlines the importance of familial bonds in the face of adversity.

When Gauguin arrives, the two artists reignite their camaraderie as they paint together outdoors. They exchange artistic philosophies, delving into the deeper meanings of their works.

Throughout his experiences, Van Gogh produces poignant black and white sketches, showcasing how he perceives the world. However, the artistry also reflects his growing emotional turmoil.

Gauguin's swift departure devastates Van Gogh, who seeks solace in increasingly blue landscapes. This change symbolizes Van Gogh's deepening emotional instability and artistic isolation.

Facing severe mental health struggles, Van Gogh visits a doctor who suggests a voluntary commitment to an asylum. This pivotal moment highlights the intersection of his artistry and mental anguish.

In the asylum, Van Gogh engages in deep conversations with fellow patients and a priest, emphasizing his belief that his art is divinely inspired. This interaction reveals his inner conflict regarding acceptance.

Tragedy strikes as boys vandalize Van Gogh's paintings, culminating in a devastating gunshot wound that leads to his death. In a somber closing, his body is laid to rest amidst his beloved artwork, finally gaining the recognition he sought.