Ophelia: A Virtual Reality Experience

Immersing in the World of Pre-Raphaelites

The VR short film “Ophelia” offers a unique opportunity to experience the life and times of the Pre-Raphaelites, an artistic movement that sought to return to the detail, intense colors, and complex compositions of Italian art. Through virtual reality, viewers can explore the creative process behind Millais’ painting and gain insights into the lives of Elizabeth Siddal and other key figures of the era.

The Story Behind the Painting

Set during the painting sessions of Ophelia, the film focuses on the delicate interplay between John Everett Millais and his model, Elizabeth Siddal, who became an icon of Victorian art.

• Elizabeth Siddal: The Muse: Known as one of the most prominent models of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, Siddal was not just a muse but an artist herself. Her life and struggles are central to the narrative, shedding light on the challenges faced by women in the art world during the Victorian Era.
• John Everett Millais: The Artist: A co-founder of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, Millais is shown in his relentless pursuit of realism and emotion, as he captures Siddal’s delicate features and expressions, turning them into a timeless piece of art.

Key Themes Explored

The VR experience delves deep into the historical and cultural context of the Pre-Raphaelite period:

• Victorian London: The setting brings alive the streets and studios of Victorian London, offering a sensory experience that transports viewers to the era where art was deeply intertwined with everyday life, social norms, and rebellion against conventional aesthetics.
• Art and Symbolism: The film explores the symbolism behind the painting “Ophelia”—a haunting representation of love, loss, and femininity. Through virtual reality, the audience can feel the tension and passion in the room as Millais and Siddal collaborate to create this iconic image.
• Poetry and Absinthe: The ambiance of the Nineteenth Century is recreated with references to the poets and artists of the era who frequented the same circles, using substances like absinthe to fuel their creativity and confront their inner demons.

A Journey Through Art and Emotion

“Ophelia” by Diana Dell’Erba is more than just a film—it is an immersive journey that allows the viewer to feel the weight of every brushstroke, the depth of every shadow, and the emotional undercurrents that flow beneath the surface.

• Historical Revision and True Story: The film sheds light on the true story behind the making of “Ophelia,” providing a historical revision that highlights the often overlooked perspectives of women like Siddal who were pivotal in shaping the visual narrative of the Victorian Era.
• Pre-Feminist and Female Protagonist: By focusing on Elizabeth Siddal, “Ophelia” challenges the traditional narrative, presenting her as a pre-feminist icon who navigates her own artistic aspirations and the limitations placed on her by society.

Experiencing the Creative Process

Using cutting-edge virtual reality technology, “Ophelia” allows viewers to step inside the studio of Millais and experience the painting sessions that would become legendary in the world of art.

• Drawing on Film: This VR short captures the intimate moments of the painting process, allowing viewers to see firsthand how Millais approached his canvas, how he adjusted lighting, and how Siddal posed for hours in a bathtub to achieve the perfect representation of Ophelia’s tragic beauty.
• Symbolism and Drug Use: The film doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the time, such as the use of absinthe and other substances that were believed to heighten creativity but often led to destructive outcomes.

Conclusion: A Unique Artistic and Historical Experience

“Ophelia” by Diana Dell’Erba stands out as a unique virtual reality film that merges art, history, and emotion. By focusing on the creation of Millais’ “Ophelia” and the pivotal role of Elizabeth Siddal, it provides a fresh perspective on one of the most evocative artworks of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. This immersive experience invites viewers to explore not just a moment in art history, but the broader narrative of creativity, passion, and the quest for beauty in an ever-changing world.