Watch Who Are You, Polly Maggoo?
- NR
- 1966
- 1 hr 41 min
-
6.8 (1,252)
Who Are You, Polly Maggoo? is a satirical comedy film from 1966 directed by William Klein. The movie is a reflection on the fashion industry and how it influences and manipulates society's consumption habits. The main character is Polly Maggoo, a famous fashion model who is adored by many, but is also criticized by some. The story follows her as she is interviewed by a French journalist who is fascinated by her and who wants to delve deeper into her thoughts and feelings. Polly's answers to the questions are often outlandish and absurd, but also reveal a deeper sense of vulnerability beneath her public persona.
The movie also features a parallel plot, which revolves around the television show "Vivre Sa Vie", which is hosted by a man named Montaigne. Each week, Montaigne presents a new episode, and we get to see the various absurd situations and conversations that can arise when the cameras are rolling.
The overall style of the movie is surreal and chaotic. Klein uses a lot of jump cuts and collages, and the dialogue is often disjointed and nonsensical. However, themes of conformity, exploitation and corruption run throughout, making it a biting commentary on the fashion industry and celebrity culture.
The performances by the cast are excellent, particularly Dorothy McGowan as Polly Maggoo. McGowan has a natural screen presence and her deadpan delivery of the outlandish dialogue adds an extra layer of humor to the movie. Jean Rochefort as Montaigne is also a standout, bringing a sense of detached cynicism to his role.
The visuals of the movie are a feast for the eyes, with colorful and abstract sets, elaborate costumes and creative camera angles. The fashion runway scenes, in particular, are a highlight, showcasing the avant-garde designs of the time.
Overall, Who Are You, Polly Maggoo? is a quirky and entertaining movie that holds up well as a commentary on the fashion industry and celebrity culture. While some of the humor may be lost on audiences who are not familiar with the fashion scene of the 1960s, the movie still has a lot to offer in terms of its characters, visuals and themes. If you're in the mood for a surreal and satirical take on the world of fashion, this is definitely a movie worth checking out.