Review of La Vie en Rose (2007) by Samantha R — 07 Jan 2010

Best way to describe this movie is beautifully sad. And the performance is nothing short of magnificent. Just watch Marie Cotillard in any interview and then try to find any trace of her in her portrayal of Edith Piaf. Go ahead. I triple Dog Dare you...

Now, I wouldn't recommend this movie to everyone because let's face it, there is the Transformers crowd out there who ... hmmmm... might not go for this kind of movie? eh-hem :) But anyone who wants to be told the story of a woman who was "The Soul of Paris" even though the story is all heartbreak and tragedy laced with a little beautiful music should definitely see it. To watch Cotillard become Edith Piaf is really something to see.

***And any fan of Bull Durham will recognize what I think is her most famous song. "Non, Je ne regrette rien" when Nuke(Tim Robbins) says "I can hear that crazy Mexican singer!" which always made me giggle being that she really couldn't be more french if she tried.

And the tragedy of her entire life made the meaning of that song even more poignant. Basically despite it all, I have no regrets. After seeing it all on film you have to shake your head at the stamina it would take to survive it all. Then to top it off with "Despite it all...I have no regrets". Really good movie.