GABRIELLE ‘Coco’ Chanel’s domineering legacy still rules over the fashion world some four decades since she passed away in her private suite at Paris’ Hôtel Ritz. Whilst the French fashion legend is fondly remembered as the epitome of independence an
Coco Avant Chanel presents the story of Chanel during her formative years and the lead-up to her first haute couture collection.
Audrey Tautou (Amelie, The Da Vinci Code) is a revelation as Chanel, using every facial nuance and piercing gaze to channel the refined mademoiselle.
The film begins with young Gabrielle and her sister being dropped off in the orphanage of the Aubazine monastery by their father after their mother has died.
From this stark beginning, Chanel and her sister try their hand at becoming cabaret stars, yet this only ends up being a way for them to meet rich men who want to have them as kept women.
Surprisingly, young Coco – the nickname she is known by – is all too eager to enjoy the attention of a rich older gentleman and the comfort of his wealth.
These early years show a woman who is at odds with herself, enjoying her independence as a single woman who never wants to marry, but only achieving her place in society because of the men she has slept with.
Even though the film offers a fascinating insight into the origins of the mysterious self-made Chanel, it frustratingly refuses to let us know more about her once she has established herself, thus keeping the narrative within the period where she was aimlessly using men for her wellbeing.
Those looking for an insight into Chanel – the businesswoman and fashion extraordinaire – may be a little disappointed with the lack of information on the successes following her astounding debut.
The attention to detail, however, is superb with costume designer Catherine Leterrier’s breathtaking Karl Lagerfeld-endorsed creations often threatening to steal many scenes.
The film, beautifully shot by cinematographer Christophe Beaucarne, is predominantly told from Chanel’s point of view, and manages to capture her observing nature about the people around her and the clothes they are wearing, demonstrating how her unusual life path ultimately shaped her design aesthetic.
Coco Avant Chanel (Coco Before Chanel) (PG)
Directed by: Anne Fontaine
Starring: Audrey Tautou, Benoit Poelvoorde
Rating: three-and-a-half stars (108 mins)
Opens: June 25