Watch Chic!

Chic! is a French comedy-drama film released in 2015. Directed by Jérôme Cornuau and boasting an ensemble cast including the talents of Fanny Ardant, Marina Hands, and Eric Elmosnino, the movie weaves together the worlds of high fashion and personal transformation against the picturesque backdrop of Paris. The film not only showcases the designs and aesthetics of haute couture but also subtly dissects the complexities of the human psyche through its quirky, yet deep characters and their intertwined stories.

Fanny Ardant, a legend of French cinema, plays the role of Alicia Ricosi, a revered and somewhat temperamental fashion designer at the pinnacle of the haute couture world. Her brand is renowned, her fashion shows are events of the highest exclusivity, and her public persona is as flamboyant as her creations. However, beneath the glamorous surface lies a woman who is volatile, deeply passionate about her work, and facing a crisis of creativity following a difficult breakup. As her personal life unexpectedly spills into her professional one, her empire threatens to crumble due to her erratic behavior.

Enter Marina Hands who portrays Hélène Birk, the dedicated and somewhat unassuming head of the design studio just beneath Alicia. Hélène, a hardworking and meticulous professional, keeps the wheels of the fashion house turning despite the chaos brought by Alicia's turbulent episodes. Unassuming and quietly efficient, she is the polar opposite of her fiery boss. Her personal life, however, is in a holding pattern; her relationship is unfulfilling and her self-esteem is grounded in her subservient role at work.

Eric Elmosnino plays the role of Julien, an unassuming yet talented landscape gardener unwittingly thrust into the high-stakes, high-pressure world of haute couture when he crosses paths with Alicia. His serene and grounded demeanor clashes with the volatile environment of the fashion house, but his presence marks the beginning of an unexpected journey for both Alicia and Hélène. Julien may seem out of place in this glamorous world, but he possesses a unique perspective and ability to see beyond the facades people create.

The film's central plot revolves around the lives of these three characters as they navigate the relentless rhythm of the fashion industry. The story chronicles the challenges Alicia faces to stay relevant and innovative, hunting for inspiration that consistently eludes her. It's a compelling look at the pressures to maintain genius and how the fear of being replaced can lead one to desperate measures. Amidst this, the narrative follows Hélène's journey of self-discovery as she starts to question her place in a world that notices only Alicia's brilliance, leaving her own light dimmed.

Chic! portrays the behind-the-scenes of a high-end fashion house with vibrancy and detail. The movie is a love letter to the craft of fashion design, featuring scenes that lovingly highlight the tactile quality of luxurious fabrics, the careful construction of a garment, and the palpable tension of a looming fashion show. It gives viewers an inside look at the complexities and contradictions of the fashion industry, where breathtaking beauty is often balanced by breakneck pace and cutthroat competition.

The comedy in the film arises from the absurdities and eccentricities inherent in the fashion world, from the over-the-top runway shows to the emotionally charged boardroom showdowns. Witty exchanges, satirical takes on the industry's excesses, and the clash of different worlds coming together provide a consistent undercurrent of humor that complements the film's broader themes.

Beyond the glossy exterior of haute couture, Chic! is a study of personal resilience and the human need for connection. As much as it revels in its aesthetic splendor, the film never shies away from exposing the vulnerabilities and insecurities that its characters hold. It highlights how the personas they present to the world are just as crafted and carefully stitched together as the fashions they create and sell.

What stands out in Chic! is the sparkling chemistry and captivating performances of its lead actors. Fanny Ardant delivers a tour de force performance, effortlessly capturing Alicia's mercurial nature and underlying fragility. Marina Hands imbues Hélène with a nuanced blend of strength and vulnerability, while Eric Elmosnino's portrayal of Julien provides a grounding and authentic presence amongst the heightened emotions of Alicia and Hélène.

Despite some potential elements of predictability, the film largely manages to avoid cliche, and its Parisian setting serves as a character in its own right. The city's timeless elegance and chic vibe serve as the perfect counterpoint to the tumultuous inner lives of the characters. The movie's crisp cinematography and sophisticated costume design enhance the viewer's immersion in the story.

An ode to creativity, passion, and the relentless pursuit of perfection, Chic! is a charming film that offers a glimpse into a world few truly understand or experience. It's a story that, while set within the exclusive spheres of French haute couture, speaks to the universal theme of finding oneself amidst the demands of high-pressure careers, personal dreams, and the search for artistic inspiration.

Chic! is a 2015 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.5.