Saint Laurent Review
RYAN: I’ve heard much buzz about this biopic detailing the life of designer Ives Saint Laurent. And as a fashion enthusiast, I’ve been looking forward to it but am very disappointed by it.
CAROLINE: That’s so sad. I heard it was good, as well. Why didn’t you dig it?
RYAN: It lacks focus. It’s a relatively laborious watch, at over two hours; and I walked out feeling as though I didn’t get to know him at all. And the fashion scenes, further, lacked dazzle.
CAROLINE: Such a shame. Was there anything that spoke to you in it?
RYAN: It was interesting to see a glimpse depicting gay life in the 60s and 70s. As a designer, there was a lot of pressure on him and he really stressed about it.
CAROLINE: One can only imagine.
RYAN: The film briefly touches on the concept that fashion around that era also put pressure on girls that being beautiful equaled being happy. I appreciate the acknowledgement and it’s important to explore the dangers of that which this film didn’t do. It’s not the point of it.
CAROLINE: I’m so bummed to hear you didn’t find the fashion appealing. How is that possible?
RYAN: I know. The cinematography and period was well crafted – hair, makeup design… but the actual costumes during runway shows and such was underwhelming. There’s better fashion in The Devil Wears Prada.
CAROLINE: Love that movie.
RYAN: This is like a slice of his life and there’s certainly some drama, but nothing that really grabbed me. He had a very sad life. Lots of drugs and issues, this film leaves you feeling empty about him.
CAROLINE: It raises an interesting question – does a biopic have to honor its subject?
RYAN: I think when it’s a celebrated figure, it should. This movie is just on the fence about everything. It’s not particularly gritty or intense, but does show some crazy things. I don’t do spoilers, so I cannot be specific. One scene is frustrating and disturbing but not enough to really warrant sitting through two and a half hours for.
