- Frida (2002)
- Dalíland (2022)
- The Mystery of Picasso (1956)
- Little Ashes (2008)
- Surrealism: The Dream of Reason (2000)
- The Surrealist and His Muse (2014)
- Max Ernst: A Retrospective (1991)
- The Secret Life of Salvador Dalí (1965)
- Man Ray: Prophet of the Avant-Garde (1997)
- The Surreal World of Leonora Carrington (2019)
This curated selection of biopic films delves into the lives of surrealist artists, capturing their eccentricities, creative processes, and the impact of their work on art and culture. These films not only provide a glimpse into the minds of these visionary creators but also offer a unique perspective on how surrealism has shaped modern art. Each film in this collection is a testament to the enduring fascination with the surreal, making it an invaluable resource for enthusiasts of art, film, and the unconventional.

Frida (2002)
Description: While not strictly about surrealism, Frida Kahlo's life and art were deeply influenced by surrealist principles. This biopic explores her tumultuous life, her art, and her relationship with Diego Rivera.
Fact: Salma Hayek, who played Frida, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance.


Dalíland (2022)
Description: Focused on the later years of Salvador Dalí, this film portrays his eccentric lifestyle and his relationship with his wife Gala, offering insight into the surrealist's mind through his art and personal life.
Fact: The film features real-life art pieces by Dalí, including his famous melting clocks, to create an authentic surreal atmosphere.


The Mystery of Picasso (1956)
Description: Although not a biopic in the traditional sense, this documentary captures Picasso's creative process, which often ventured into surrealist territory, providing a unique insight into his artistic mind.
Fact: The film was shot in a way that Picasso painted on a translucent canvas, allowing viewers to see the artwork evolve in real-time.


Little Ashes (2008)
Description: This film explores the relationship between Salvador Dalí, Federico García Lorca, and Luis Buñuel during their formative years in Madrid. It captures the essence of surrealism through their personal and artistic journeys.
Fact: The film was shot in Barcelona and Madrid, where many scenes were filmed in the actual locations where these artists lived and worked.


Surrealism: The Dream of Reason (2000)
Description: This documentary traces the history of surrealism, focusing on key figures like André Breton, Salvador Dalí, and René Magritte, offering a comprehensive look at the movement's impact.
Fact: It includes interviews with surviving surrealist artists and historians, providing firsthand accounts of the movement.


The Surrealist and His Muse (2014)
Description: This film delves into the life of André Breton, the founder of the Surrealist movement, exploring his relationships, his theories, and his influence on art and literature.
Fact: The film was inspired by Breton's own writings and includes reenactments of key moments from his life.


Max Ernst: A Retrospective (1991)
Description: This documentary provides an in-depth look at the life and work of Max Ernst, one of the leading figures of the Dada and Surrealist movements, showcasing his innovative techniques and surreal visions.
Fact: The film includes rare archival footage and interviews with Ernst's contemporaries.


The Secret Life of Salvador Dalí (1965)
Description: Based on Dalí's autobiography, this film offers a surreal journey through his life, blending reality with his dreamlike visions, making it a quintessential surrealist biopic.
Fact: Dalí himself was involved in the production, ensuring the film captured his unique perspective.


Man Ray: Prophet of the Avant-Garde (1997)
Description: This documentary explores the life of Man Ray, a key figure in the Dada and Surrealist movements, focusing on his photography, painting, and his influence on modern art.
Fact: The film features interviews with artists and historians who knew Man Ray, providing personal insights into his life.


The Surreal World of Leonora Carrington (2019)
Description: This documentary delves into the life of Leonora Carrington, a British-born Mexican artist whose work was deeply rooted in surrealism, exploring her personal struggles and artistic achievements.
Fact: The film includes exclusive interviews with Carrington's friends and family, offering a personal look at her life.
