Julian Schnabel Confronts Mortality Through Art at Tribeca Festival Lisboa

Julian Schnabel opened the Tribeca Festival Lisboa on Wednesday night. The artist and filmmaker screened his latest work, *In The Hand of Dante*. The event was held in Lisbon, Portugal.

Schnabel discussed profound themes of art and immortality. He suggested that creating art is a way to defy death. His comments came during a post-screening question-and-answer session.

Exploring the Creative Process as a Defiance of Death

Schnabel wore his signature artist smock and fedora. He argued that artists use themselves as tools to create lasting work. This work, he said, becomes a way to transgress death itself.

“I’m not going to be around here for very long,” Schnabel stated frankly. He added that the work itself is what endures. This belief is central to his films like *Basquiat* and *At Eternity’s Gate*.

A Star-Studded Adaptation with Deep Roots

The film is adapted from Nick Tosches’ 2002 novel. It features a dual role for Oscar Isaac, who plays poet Dante Alighieri and a modern-day author. The plot revolves around a rediscovered manuscript of *The Divine Comedy*.

According to Reuters, the manuscript’s emergence triggers a dangerous quest. The story connects the Vatican with a New York mob boss. This narrative weaves together past and present.

The cast includes major Hollywood stars. Gal Gadot, Gerard Butler, and Al Pacino all appear in the film. John Malkovich, Martin Scorsese, and Jason Momoa also feature in the project.

Schnabel credited his wife, Louise Kugelberg, for her influence. She co-wrote and edited the film. Her contribution was acknowledged during the Lisbon event.

The Lisbon screening highlights Schnabel’s continued exploration of artistic legacy. His work on *In The Hand of Dante* reinforces his unique position in cinema. Julian Schnabel remains a vital voice discussing art’s power over mortality.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is Julian Schnabel’s new film about?

*In The Hand of Dante* is based on a novel by Nick Tosches. It follows a modern-day author and the poet Dante Alighieri. Their stories connect through a rediscovered manuscript.

Who stars in the film alongside Oscar Isaac?

The cast includes Gal Gadot, Gerard Butler, and Al Pacino. John Malkovich and Jason Momoa also have roles. Director Martin Scorsese makes a cameo appearance.

Where did the film premiere?

The movie first premiered at the Venice Film Festival. Its Lisbon screening opened the Tribeca Festival Lisboa. The festival runs through November 1st.

What was the main theme Schnabel discussed?

Schnabel focused on art as a confrontation with mortality. He believes creating lasting work is a way to defy death. This theme is central to his artistic philosophy.

What role did Louise Kugelberg play in the film?

Louise Kugelberg is Schnabel’s wife. She co-wrote and edited *In The Hand of Dante*. Schnabel publicly acknowledged her significant contribution.