Discover the mystery behind the legend.|Dec. 12, 2003|UK|101 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Drama;Romance
Description: Griet, a shy girl living in the Dutch Republic in 1665, faces financial hardship after her father, a Delftware painter, loses his eyesight. Unable to support the family, Griet is sent to work as a maid in the household of renowned painter Johannes Vermeer and his wife, Catharina. Upon arriving, she pauses at a crossroads, marking the beginning of her new life.
In the Vermeer household, Griet diligently performs her duties as the lowest-ranking servant, enduring harsh treatment from Vermeer’s spoiled daughter, Cornelia. While on errands, she attracts the attention of Pieter, a butcher’s son, though she is hesitant to reciprocate his feelings. As Griet cleans Vermeer’s studio—a space Catharina avoids—she gradually earns the artist’s trust. Vermeer begins teaching her about painting, light, and color, secretly sharing lessons and tasks to avoid his wife’s anger. Maria Thins, Vermeer’s pragmatic mother-in-law, recognizes Griet’s potential to aid Vermeer’s career.
Vermeer’s wealthy patron, Van Ruijven, takes notice of Griet and requests her services in his household. Vermeer refuses but agrees to paint her portrait for Van Ruijven. As Vermeer secretly works on the painting, Catharina grows suspicious, fueled by Van Ruijven’s insinuations of an inappropriate relationship between Griet and Vermeer. Griet struggles with her growing fascination for Vermeer while fending off Van Ruijven’s advances, which escalate to an attempted assault in the courtyard.
Later, while Catharina is away, Maria Thins gives Griet her daughter’s pearl earrings, urging Vermeer to complete the painting. Griet’s life becomes increasingly complex as she navigates her place in the household, her bond with Vermeer, and the challenges posed by those around her.
Cast director: Peter Webber
Cast actor: Scarlett Johansson, Colin Firth, Tom Wilkinson, Cillian Murphy, Judy Parfitt, Essie Davis, Joanna Scanlan, Gabrielle Reidy, Chris McHallem, Alakina Mann
Original name: Girl with a Pearl Earring