Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus (2006)

Introduction
"Fur: A Fictional Picture of Diane Arbus" is a 2006 movie directed by Steven Shainberg and written by Shainberg and Erin Cressida Wilson. It is based loosely on the life of Diane Arbus, following her journey from a photographer's assistant to an artist renowned for her unique and frequently disturbing portraits.

Plot Overview
The film, set in New York City in 1958, begins with Diane (Nicole Kidman) living in a luxurious apartment or condo real estate with her hubby Allan (Ty Burrell) and two kids. Diane assists Allan, a commercial photographer, in his work, but feels constrained by their way of life and craves to break away from the artistic conventions and norms.

One day, a mysterious neighbor, Lionel (Robert Downey Jr.), moves into the upstairs apartment. Lionel experiences hypertrichosis, a condition causing excessive hair growth all over his body, making him appear like a "wolf man." Captivated by Lionel's distinct appearance and the mystery surrounding him, Diane approaches him and they gradually form a not likely relationship.

Diane's Transformation
Lionel draws Diane into his world which is filled with fellow social outcasts, consisting of overshadows, drag queens, and circus freaks, introducing her to the charm in unusual and disturbing things. Under Lionel's influence, Diane gradually evolves from a shy housewife to a bold photographer. She starts to take pictures of the extremely aspects of mankind that were always concealed away or considered too unpleasant or stunning to be taken a look at.

Lionel's Impact
Throughout the film, the love between Diane and Lionel grows and develops into an intricate love story. Lionel, despite his outward appearance, is portrayed as a nurturing, compassionate character who presses Diane into exploring her true capabilities. In return, Diane feels sorry for Lionel, showing him the human connection he had actually been yearning for. It's Lionel's death that ultimately forces Diane to confront her fears, press her borders, and completely immerse herself into the life of an artist.

Completion
After Lionel's tragic death, Diane abandons her former life as a dutiful housewife, bravely gets out of the societal standards and demands following her creative passion. The movie ends with Diane now free-spirited, presenting her first picture at a gallery, which is the beginning of her renowned and intriguing career.

Conclusion
"Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus", despite the misleading title, is not a biographical account of Diane Arbus' life but more of a speculative fiction about how she might have developed her unique artistic vision. Kidman's efficiency as Arbus is captivating, as is Downey Jr.'s as the enigmatic Lionel. The movie visually echoes the haunting and disturbing visual of Arbus' initial photos, showcasing the appeal in the non-traditional, the feared, and the 'freakish.' In spite of some negative evaluations, it certainly acts as an intriguing exploration of an extensive artist's journey toward self-discovery.

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