image courtesy of HBO
image courtesy of HBO
image courtesy of http://www.hilaryknight.com
If you know me, you know I'm documentary obsessed. I even dream of traveling the U.S. in an RV and making a documentary in my retirement. (Stay tuned in 20+ years to see if that one materializes.)
As both a graphic digital and traditional artist myself, you can imagine, this documentary was heaven to me! Not only did I learn how Eloise came to life, in both text and imagery — I learned so much about the artist, Hilary Knight.
The Eloise book series was written by Kay Thompson and illustrated by Hilary Knight. One thing that struck me, was their creative process itself. It reminded me that all artists have a process, and sometimes it can be painful. Between the politics and the clashing egos of the creative team and the politics involved in publishing a book, this documentary had me intrigued from the first moments. This documentary was the brainchild of Lena Dunham, whose lifetime obsession with Eloise drove her to make this film. (You may also know Lena Dunham, from HBO series Girls, which is also one of my faves!)
I don't want to give to much away... do yourself a favor, watch this documentary for yourself.
HBO movie synopsis.
Meet Hilary Knight in this portrait of the illustrator and artist whose whimsical life is rivaled only by Eloise--the iconic book character he brought to life. Executive produced by 'Girls' creators Lena Dunham and Jenni Konner, this documentary short finds Knight looking back on his life as an artist and his indelible connection to the immensely popular Eloise books. Visit HBO to watch this great film!
Watch below to see, Lena Dunham discuss what led her to make this documentary.