By Daniela Coe-McNamara
Staff Writer
High fashion and luxurious living are the cornerstones of Hollywood’s latest biography drama, “Saint Laurent,” which explores the eccentric life of the late renowned fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent (Gaspard Ulliel.)
Lacking plot depth, yet heavy in glamour, crazy and couture, “Saint Laurent” is a confusing yet eerily captivating film that enthralls the senses with its beautiful images, people and scenes full of color and taste. Directed by French film director Bertrand Bonello, the film is artistic; a raw depiction of one of the world’s most interesting fashion designers following him at the height of his career, while also revealing the inner workings of one of the most coveted industries.
“Saint Laurent” follows the famous, and sometimes infamous, fashion designer, portraying Laurent at his rise to fame in the fashion world. “Saint Laurent” allows audiences a peek into the lively and sometimes insane world of fashion in the 60’s like never before.
Unlike other films about the life of the famous designer, “Saint Laurent”chooses to focus instead on the height of Laurent’s fashion career, from 1967 to 1976. The film utilizes the specific time period to depict Laurent as not only a visionary in clothing design, but also a revolutionary in the culture surrounding him, challenging the social norms of the day.
The most appealing aspect of “Saint Laurent” is the cinematography, with intimate scenes that delve into Laurent’s memories. The film jumps from one year to the next then back again, making it confusing and difficult to find a true plot. However, the scenes are so personal that the audience feels as though they are recalling Laurent’s own mismatched memories themselves.
Fast paced scenes, attractive people and designer clothes give viewers the instant impression that “Saint Laurent” is simply a superficial display of the glamour of a high fashion lifestyle. The mystique of the wealthy fashionista community is perfectly exemplified in the shallow, beautiful men and women that surround Laurent. The director utilizes the aesthetics of the scenes and people themselves to create a truly fascinating visual, drawing away from the lack of depth of the film.
The director’s carefully selected casting choices clearly reflect the personas of each character, particularly Laurent. Gaspard Ulliel takes on the difficult task of playing the famous Yves Saint Laurent in his most prestigious era, and succeeds, as his mysterious charm embodies the lively, audacious spirit of Laurent. Ulliel is subdued and graceful, while also emulating a dignified but distressed fashion icon, making his role as Laurent the perfect fit.
“Saint Laurent” is an intriguing, arresting film that utilizes its time period and superior videography to follow Yves Saint Laurent’s rise to fashion fame. Although the shallow glamour of this film disappoints due to a lack of true depth, it is made up for in taste, intimacy and beauty throughout the movie.
“Saint Laurent”, a rated R film, is available in select theaters, including the Arclight Hollywood Cinemas.
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