“All the Beauty and the Bloodshed” is a 2022 American documentary by Laura Poitras. It documents the life of one of America’s most renowned photographers and activists Nan Goldin, showcasing her fight against the Sackler family for their role in the opioid crisis. The documentary explores Goldin’s life and her activism, depicting a deeply personal narrative of art, addiction, and defiance. It was first screened at the 79th Venice International Film Festival where the Golden Lion award was bestowed upon it for being the second documentary to win the honor.

Outline of the story

The film narrates the life of Nan Goldin, her early years in the art world, her battle with opioid addiction and activism. Following a near fatal overdose, in 2017 Goldin started P.A.I.N. (Prescription Addiction Intervention Now). The documentary follows the protests Goldin organized through the advocacy group P.A.I.N. at the art institutions which were heavily sponsored by the Sackler family such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Guggenheim highlighting the relationship between art, philanthropy, and business.

Character Sketches

Nan Goldin: A photographer who heavily featured in her artwork the members of the oppressed subcultures.

The documentary depicts her journey as an artist turned activist, focusing on her internal battles and tireless fight for justice.

The P.A.I.N. Members: Alongside Goldin, activists featured in the documentary work together in order to combat the influence that the Sackler family has in the art world and beyond.

Style and Themes

“Everything Beautiful and Injurious” reflects on the impact of personal suffering, social apathy, and the strength of unification. The emotional and immersive composition of the film provides to be impactful with its use of old footage, new interviews, and Goldin’s old photographs. The film’s blunted, honest depiction of addiction and activism confronts its audience with the harsh realities of art, ethics, social responsibility, and the deeply rooted controversial issues of modern civilization.

Final Thoughts

In “All the Beauty and the Bloodshed” Laura Poitras narrated the life story of Nan Goldin, but with a more political view, turning it into a documentary that serves as a scathing critique to the institutions responsible for the opioid epidemic. Through tears and stunning shots, the film captures how impactful art and activism can be while paradoxically calling on the audience to think about who is at fault and who is beyond salvation.