In 1563, Michelangelo’s “The Last Judgment” became the target of the Catholic Church’s first official censorship: scandal, added drapery, accusations of indecency. This monumental fresco, populated by naked bodies of unprecedented power, caused a shockwave throughout Europe. Behind this scandal, a much larger battle was being fought: the battle for power over images.
Through this masterpiece, the film explores the fundamental tensions of the Renaissance: artistic freedom versus authority, the celebration of the body versus the fear of desire, faith versus aesthetic emotion. It reveals how Michelangelo, by painting flesh, touched the untouchable. Through him, we discover the invention of religious soft power and the dramatic beginnings of artistic censorship.
The documentary will combine analysis by art historians, archives, correspondence, and contributions from contemporary artists. Through a meticulous visual exploration of the fresco and a sensitive reinterpretation of its context, it will offer a new perspective on a legendary work and on the founding act of Catholic censorship.
Direction: Frédéric Biamonti
Production: CFRT for ARTE France
Delivery: End of 2025