Da Vinci and the Code he Lived by (DVD, 2006)

A GOOD HISTORICAL BIOGRAPHY

“Da Vinci and the Code He Lived By”, from the History Channel and A&E Television Networks, presents a vivid historical recreation of the life of Leonardo Da Vinci and the breadth and depth of his artistic achievements. Although the title of the DVD “Da Vinci and the Code He Lived By” is certainly misleading and suggests a reference to masterpieces that were included in Dan Brown’s novel, in the context of this program, “the code he lived by” is understood as a quality of his personality that was characteristic in his life and pioneering accomplishments. The program closely follows the deep curiosity and passion toward understanding nature that fascinated him all his life; and also, his determination in overcoming personal and social obstacles, through pursuit of his many artistic talents, that lead to his the many accomplishments.

The reference to “Code” in the context of this program does not have anything to do with the ‘Da Vinci Code’ novel at all.

* The main program nicely covers the breadth of Da Vinci’s artistic achievements including his more familiar studies in drawing, painting, perspective and scale and his early work as an apprentice in Verrocchio’s studio. It also presents the other areas of study that held a lifelong fascination for him including his observations of nature, science and human anatomy, engineering and large scale military weapons, human flight and flying machines, and the large scale model horse that he created for the Duke of Milan. The frequent references and many images from his notebooks add another fascinating dimension to this biography.


* Extra Feature: 'Behind the Scenes'

The Extra Featurette: ‘Behind the Scenes: History in the Making: Da Vinci’
is an interesting added bonus for this DVD. Director Rob Gardner and his crew describe the production details that went into making this program. The use of large scale settings and locations helped recreate the world of Renaissance Italy. European locations, Churches and buildings were used instead of computer generated imagery, to help create a more authentic dimension as well as the use of moving cameras, elaborate costumes, detailed props and live animals.

(The total playing time is 110 minutes)