Dutch duo delivers, Viktor & Rolf exhibition is a must-see

It's the first time in the UK that Viktor & Rolf have been the subject of an art exhibition. The Barbican Art Gallery is well set to display the evolution of the duo that never cease to amaze the fashion world with their couture shows that always have a dash of performance art mixed in. Each couture show is exhibited in its own section with a running video of the show projected behind the human-sized dolls carrying the signature pieces of each show. The meticulous detail and attention that obviously went into the dolls become obvious when you realize that the dolls look like replicas of the models on the video (except of course for that Dutch mannequin pudginess). Apparently V&R even requested that the dolls' hair got styled in the same exact manner as that of the models from the original runway.

Having gone through the exhibition, V&R represent more performance art than fashion for me, as their ideas tend to be charged with an ideology, and hence the couture shows tend to be more of a statement than just a display of the finest craftsmanship and latest chic designs. But that's also why none of their couture shows are boring. I found myself watching every single runway video to absorb it all, giggling intermittently at the bravery and creativity of the designers. Words can't explain the work of this duo so do yourself a favor and get a ticket immediately.

A Tribute to Jean Moreau - Part III

This is the final installment of my Jeanne Moreau tribute. I've watched a ton of films over the past few weeks but they've only reaffirmed my respect for Moreau as a versatile actress.

le Temps qui reste (2005) - dir. François Ozon
Ozon delicately handles the subject matter so that the film never gets too sentimental or overly dramatic, which breathes fresh air into the genre. The film spends its energy on the last days of the main character and the way he chooses to say goodbye to everyone and everything around him. Moreau's contribution is unforgettable as the cool grandmother.

The Immortal Story (1968) - dir. Orson Welles
An awkward tale set in Macao in the 19th century centering around a rich tradesman trying to convert a fairy tale into a real story by arranging everything as it is laid out in the story. The small budget production only has four actors, including Welles, and feels very surreal from start to finish.

Le Journal d'une femme de chambre (1964) - dir. Luis Buñuel
Buñuel's fantastic film harvests Moreau's sexual appeal to its full extent as Moreau's character slowly takes over control of the house where she's a maid. The fact that household and the neighbours are quite the characters definitely helps in creating some of the most entertaining moments on the big screen. A definite must-see!

Mademoiselle (1966) - dir. Tony Richardson
A strict school teacher wrecks havoc over a small country village when her lust over an Italian summer lumberjack overcomes her propriety. The animalistic aspects of lust are at the forefront with the visuals and acting. The shot of hands brought together by a snake and Moreau's howling while fooling around with her desire further emphasize the idea of lust being an animalistic instinct. An interesting film that must have been very controversial for its time.