Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of color and meet the man who revolutionized the way we perceive and communicate hues!
The King of Color is a captivating documentary that unravels the story behind the Pantone Color Systems, a global phenomenon that has transformed the way we identify and name colors. Imagine a world where the simple act of asking for 'red' could result in five different shades, each unique to the printer's process. Enter Lawrence Herbert, a 96-year-old visionary who changed all that.
This documentary, crafted by the same team behind the popular 'Wordplay', takes us on a journey through the life and work of Herbert. It's not just a movie; it's a character study that unfolds the evolution of color printing technology in the 20th century. Prepare to be amazed by Herbert's techniques, which created an incredible spectrum of colors and precise formulas, ensuring consistent results every time.
While the description might make it sound technical, the directors, Patrick Creadon and Christine O'Malley, have crafted a narrative that is engaging and accessible. They use animation, graphics, and archival gems to guide us through the complexities, although the mathematical bits might leave some viewers scratching their heads (especially those who, like me, checked out of math after algebra!).
Color printing has a rich history, dating back centuries, with various techniques like woodcuts, lithography, and screen printing. But Herbert's innovation, the split fountain press, was a game-changer. It allowed for the simultaneous printing of 28 colors, creating a hyper-detailed, extruded color wheel. This invention brought consistency to the world of color, ensuring that everyone, from fashion designers to abstract painters, could communicate shades accurately.
Herbert's classification system, a 'dictionary of color', has become a universal language. It allows collaborators across the globe to agree on shades like oyster gray, autumn blonde, and moonless night, ensuring a unified vision.
But here's where it gets interesting. 'The King of Color' is a feature-length narrative that feels like an official portrait, capturing Herbert's life and work while he was still sharp enough to tell his story. It's a self-commissioned project, with Herbert wanting an approved account to share, almost like a legacy project. One of his adult children even questions this self-centered approach, adding an intriguing layer to the narrative.
The filmmakers, with their final cut privilege, add a touch of objectivity, ensuring the movie remains an affectionate tribute to Herbert's legacy. His recollections, while self-serving at times, are no different from most people's accounts of their lives, where they often play the hero. The personal aspects of his story, especially his midlife crisis and traumatic Korean War experience, are moving and provide a deeper insight into the man behind the colors.
This documentary is a delightful blend of education and entertainment. It teaches us about processes we often take for granted and leaves us with a richer appreciation of the world's finer shades. So, are you ready to explore the fascinating world of color and its unsung king? Watch 'The King of Color' and discover the stories behind the shades!
