James McNeill Whistler and the Case for Beauty

A profile of artist James McNeill Whistler (1834-1903), who's best known for the iconic "Whistler's Mother" painting. An art revolutionary, he pioneered the "art for art's sake" philosophy; and paved the way for the 20th century's modern art movement. The documentary features much of his artwork; historical photographs; animation sequences; re-enactments of some his famous works; and insights from art historians. Angelica Huston narrates; and Kevin Kline gives voice to Whistler.