Couture | TIFF50

This film was almost entirely not what I expected it to be, as most fashion-centric films I’ve watched have a much more chaotically fun and outwardly glamorous sense to them (yes “Devil wears Prada" and “Cruella” I’m talking about you). So to watch a fashion film as lowkey and process-centric as “Couture” seemed to be, was unexpected to say the least. 

Primarily following Angelina’s character as designer recently diagnosed with cancer, alongside a Sudanese upcoming model (Anyier Anei), a makeup artist and aspiring writer (Fella Rumpf) and a seamstress (Garance Marillier). “Couture “ attempts to capture multiple essential working parts of the fashion industry with a fly-on-the-wall perspective. Rarely allowing time for a deeper analysis of the characters' individual conflicts and hardships, they are all undoubtedly experiencing. 

Although this more documentary (but not) style lacks the depth and attention to specific stories I prefer to see, the real portrayal and recognition of the behind-the-scene workers in the fashion industry, I can really applaud. Although it takes place during one of the most hectic weeks of the year for fashion (Paris fashion week), there lacks a sense of urgency that can only be described as being the centre of the storm. So although this film isn’t necessarily my style in storytelling, I can still appreciate the stories being highlighted and how they’re being told in a unique way.

Now I have to shout out Angelina Jolie, as she was (as per usual) outstanding in the role, doing the most she could with the script and impressively even making me tear up during one of her monologues (which I swear is not an easy feat).

This film de-glamourises an industry known for its glamour.

And from one fashion lover to another, I'd say it's worth a watch.