The Christophers: A Deep Dive into Art, Legacy, and Deception

In Steven Soderbergh's film *The Christophers*, the story revolves around Julian Sklar, an aging artist portrayed by Ian McKellen, who grapples with his fading legacy and the manipulative schemes of his children, Barnaby and Sallie, played by James Corden and Jessica Gunning. The film explores themes of artistic integrity, commercialism, and the moral dilemmas surrounding the art world.

NPR

Julian Sklar, once a celebrated painter, now struggles to maintain relevance, relying on Cameo videos for income. His children, eager to profit from their father's unfinished works, enlist art restorer Lori Butler, played by Michaela Coel, to complete a series of portraits known as *The Christophers*. These portraits, which depict a young man Julian loved, are believed to be worth millions. The children plan to pass off these completed works as newly discovered masterpieces after Julian's death.

NPR

The film presents a complex relationship between Julian and Lori, marked by generational conflict and artistic rivalry. Julian's brash personality contrasts with Lori's reserved demeanor, creating a dynamic that evolves from combative to collaborative. As they navigate their respective frustrations with the art world, the film delves into deeper questions about creativity, authorship, and the value of art itself.

New York Times

*The Christophers* critiques the commodification of art, highlighting how financial considerations often overshadow artistic merit. Soderbergh's direction and Ed Solomon's screenplay emphasize the characters' struggles with their identities as artists. Julian's disdain for commercialism is juxtaposed with Lori's need for financial stability, creating a tension that drives the narrative.

New York Times

Critics have noted the film's exploration of the art world's complexities. One review highlights that "the film is uninterested in definitively establishing what these works objectively 'mean' or their attendant value—how the characters feel about them is more important." This sentiment reflects the film's focus on personal relationships and the subjective nature of artistic value.

In The Christophers, an aging artist’s unfinished masterpieces are subjects of speculation and scheming

While many reviews praise the performances of McKellen and Coel, some critiques point out the film's shortcomings in addressing the broader implications of its themes. For instance, the obfuscation of Julian's past controversies and the lack of clarity regarding the completed portraits' significance have been noted as missed opportunities for deeper commentary.

Vulture

• “it's the answers I can't be bothered with.” — Ian McKellen as Julian Sklar

NPR

• “Instead, it becomes a meditation on art, legacy, creativity and the prickly question of who has the right to critique.” — Review from *Macau Daily Times*

Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel are razor-sharp in art comedy film

• “to judge art one must possess the skills to make said art,” — Review from *Rolling Stone*

Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel are razor-sharp in art comedy film

*The Christophers* is set to be released in New York and Los Angeles on April 14, 2026, with a nationwide rollout following on April 17, 2026. The film's reception may influence discussions around the intersection of art and commerce, as well as the evolving role of artists in contemporary society.

In The Christophers, an aging artist’s unfinished masterpieces are subjects of speculation and scheming