At one point in this portrait of Karl Lagerfeld—the celebrated designer who has collaborated over the past four decades with couture labels such as Chanel and Chloé—the subject dismisses a query about his past by saying, “It's better to benevolently skim over things.” Director Rodolphe Marconi appears to take that maxim to heart here, presenting a fairly superficial treatment of both the man and the world of fashion. Lagerfeld Confidential intertwines extensive interview clips of Lagerfeld (who selectively dispenses information—particularly in regards to his childhood—while withholding any major revelations) with footage of the man at fashion shows, working with models, sketching out designs, and instructing aides and underlings (we also see Lagerfeld in his photographer role, apparently preferring handsome male models to the women for whom his fashions are intended). Adopting an idiosyncratic wardrobe and assuming a pose of witty condescension, Lagerfeld has assiduously cultivated a distinctive persona that has helped make him a star in his field. Marconi's profile does nothing to deconstruct the image Lagerfeld so carefully maintains, so an appreciation of his film will depend on whether or not you're willing to settle for a surface stroll through the glitzy world of fashion while basking in Lagerfeld's self-consciously theatrical glow. Optional. [DVD extras include 41 minutes of bonus footage. Bottom line: a decent extras package for an uneven documentary.] (F. Swietek)
Lagerfeld Confidential
Koch Lorber, 91 min., in French w/English subtitles, not rated, DVD: $29.98 Volume 23, Issue 5
Lagerfeld Confidential
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