Review of Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky (2009) by Mansi A — 02 Oct 2010

If I were a filmmaker, I would have made this film. Yes, it's a French biopic, yes, it's about two of my favorite humans to ever grace the planet, yes, it's a period piece, and yes, these three truths make my first statement the farthest possible thing from a surprise.

:-) The obvious being stated, though, nearly everything about this film and its attention to detail wins all my accolades. From Igor's rastrum to the fabric patterns in Coco's house and from the three languages spoken to the actual musicians playing, the reverence with which the film treats its subjects is apparent, and the research and time necessary to create an art film worthy of the artists portrayed is simply staggering.

The cinematography, score, screen tension, sparse dialogue, and slower pace are completely compelling, and if nothing else, the first 20 minutes are my own personal fantasy: a ticket to the premiere of Le Sacre.

The only problem with an otherwise perfect film experience is seeing my favorite composer portrayed as an adulterer, which is about as psychologically scarring as walking in on your parents. First, I'll wash my eyes out with soap, and second, I'll buy a copy of the DVD.

Simply a fantastic film.