Review of The September Issue (2009) by Jason S — 01 Jul 2010

This film is successful and smart on two levels. The first level being that you are given a sneak peek into the world of Vogue magazine and it's ice queen, Anna Wintour as they prepare for their largest issue of all time. Very little is known about the realities of Vogue and the behaviors of the mysterious and cold Wintour and this film is a constant tease, stroking your curiousity to see what really lurks behind her empty yet critical gaze. To see her calmly but bluntly criticize the head designer of Yves Saint Laurent in the films early portion is a direct enticement of the audience's desire to see her exposed as the raving mad bitch queen of The Fashion World. That moment never comes but you wish for it more and more in each frame Wintour occupies. Surprisingly, the world of Vogue is not very glamorous at all. I don't remember seeing one person working there be attractive or healthful looking but rather stressed and worn down from literally being a slave to fashion. What is riveting in this film is the grassroots expose of Vogue. Not a lot of glamour, fairly small editing and concept team for the issue, yet this IS the magazine for the women of the world and for fashion itself making your appreciate all of the hard work that these people put into periodical publication month after month.

This is where the film is a pure genius on level 2. The film is a pure informercial for Vogue. I wouldn't be surprised if Conde Nast funded the production house of this film. It depicts the work yet prestige of glamour and I wouldn't be surprised if the subscription rate takes a healthy spike after audiences see this film. Quite smart in its making, The September Issue is a win-win film. We get to see a glimpse of Vogue in full swing, but all of it's mysterious secrets are still preserved. We also get to see it's notoriously steely leader, Miss Wintour, personal life, and perhaps empathize with her as well as get a taste of the glamour and ridiculousness that is the fashion world. It's presented cohesively and entertainingly but in appetizer sized portions making enjoy what you've watched but making you hungry to see more. I guess you'll have to get a subscription to satisfy that craving.