AllMovie

The 17th Century Dutch Movement was headed by the prolific if eccentric Frans Hals. His status as one of the greatest portraitists is explored in this one-hour program. Hals mainly painted in one genre throughout his career. His rendering of The Banquet of the Officers of the St. George Militia Company set new standards for such works with its sense of suspended animation. Later in life, Hals embraced a more subdued style punctuated by somber tones and simple strokes, and his reputation remained as one of the most talented of European artists.