Review of Rosalie Goes Shopping (1989) by Wut S — 29 Oct 2007

Concept is genius--a German housewife dwelling in dusty Arkansas faking checks and running over 30 credit cards so she could "go shopping" for her family. Once the local shops refuse to accept her checks and credits, she steals from one family member to buy birthday present for another. The film's satirical to American consumerism--Rosalie is addicted to reassurances of American credit system. "Spend now and worry later" must be her motto. Using a credit card to pay for another, and worrying only about paying the interests keep her juggling financially everyday. Though the juggles ain't always clean, Rosalie enjoys being smarter than everyone, exploiting the loopholes of consumerist society. She confesses to a parish priest whenever she's done something wrong, but never shows any signs of guilt. The only time we see her feel guilty is when she ceases to "go shopping" by staying home with the newly bought PC (as her daughter's birthday present). Rosalie "feels right" when she pulls a trick and "feels guilty" when she's not--not a morally ideal repentant , but her priest is fascinated to hear her scams and secrets.

Rosalie's family is full of vibrant characters too. Gorgeous cinematography, playful and absurd, this film is witty, funny, and deserving a watch. Look for a subtitled version, for Rosalie's Bavarian-accented English can be fuzzy to comprehend.