The name Coco Chanel immediately conjures up images of chic suits and elegant strings of pearls. After viewing Director Jan Kounen’s ,“Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky”, one may add shrewd business woman, ice queen and tortured lover to that list. Kounen’s adaptation of the novel “Coco and Igor” by Chris Greenhalgh, captures the passionate and at times harmful relationship between iconic business woman Coco Chanel and Russian composer Igor Stravinsky. Stravinsky, artfully portrayed by Mads Mikelson, (whom you may remember as Draco from 2010’s “Clash of the Titans”), comes across as emotionally volatile, sensitive artist. While, Anna Mouglalis’, Coco Chanel is portrayed as cold, shrewd and remorseless in her pursuit of the composer. Though their paths crossed briefly in 1913 after a disastrous performance of Stravinsky’s “Rites of Spring”, their affair takes place 7 years later when Chanel’s star is rising rapidly and a Stravinsky’s career plummeting into despair. It is at the darkest point in his career that Chanel offers him and his family refuge from the ravages of war in her palatial estate. It is under this very roof with his wife and children present that Coco makes her move on the downtrodden musician.
Though this film closed the 2009 Cannes Film Festival and has been released all over the globe, the American release will be June 11th 2010 in NY and LA with more locations to follow. Released in both French and English versions, this film is a must see for the fashion enthusiast or fans of Coco Chanel, Her signature style is depicted though out the film. Others may find the film a bit long-winded and slow at times, though each scene provides an insight into the mindset and emotional state of the main characters. Unlike the usual late spring summer productions of American cinema, this film relies on subtlety. A look in the eyes, a small gesture and suggestive body language take the place of the usual explosions, CGI effects and toilet humor that generally peppers this season’s movie going experience. A perfect movie for debating the price of infidelity and the perils of powerful women, this is not a movie for children. There are several nude sex scenes which are nearly pornographic by American standards. Debatable and thought provoking this piece is worth the run time. The adult in you will respect the subtleties and enjoy the storyline but the kid in you will likely succumb to the slow pace of the film. If you are a fan of Chanel, Fashion or passionate love stories go and see this film and bring a pillow.
Visit cocochanelandigorstravinsky.com for more info.
Coco Chanel and Igor Stravinsky HD Trailer
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