celebration movie yves saint laurent | ‘Celebration’ Review: The Final Stand of Yves Saint Laurent

"Celebration," a documentary directed by Olivier Meyrou, offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the twilight years of iconic fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The film, featuring Saint Laurent himself, alongside his lifelong partner Pierre Bergé, muse Laetitia Casta, and collaborator Loulou de la Falaise, chronicles the preparations for his final haute couture collection. More than just a behind-the-scenes look at the fashion world, "Celebration" is a poignant portrait of a creative genius grappling with fading health, the pressures of his legacy, and the complex relationship that defined his life and career. The film captures the intense creative process, the power dynamics within the House of Saint Laurent, and the profound vulnerability of a man nearing the end of his reign.

A Window into a World of Haute Couture and Personal Struggle

"Celebration" is not a hagiography. It doesn't shy away from showing the less glamorous aspects of the fashion industry and the personal struggles that plagued Saint Laurent. The film paints a picture of a man who is both brilliant and fragile, driven by a relentless artistic vision but also haunted by his own demons.

The documentary's strength lies in its fly-on-the-wall approach. Meyrou's camera observes the inner workings of the House of Saint Laurent without intrusion, allowing viewers to witness the painstaking process of creating a haute couture collection. From the initial sketches and fabric selections to the fittings and runway show, the film captures the dedication and artistry that went into each garment.

However, the film's most compelling aspect is its depiction of Yves Saint Laurent himself. He is shown as a complex and contradictory figure: a visionary designer, a demanding perfectionist, and a deeply insecure individual. His physical and mental health are clearly deteriorating, and he often appears withdrawn and melancholic. Despite his declining health, Saint Laurent remains fiercely committed to his craft, pouring his heart and soul into his final collection.

Pierre Bergé, Saint Laurent's business partner and longtime companion, plays a pivotal role in the film. Bergé is portrayed as a shrewd and pragmatic businessman, fiercely protective of Saint Laurent and his legacy. He manages the House of Saint Laurent with an iron fist, shielding the designer from the outside world and ensuring that his creative vision is realized. Their relationship, a complex mix of love, loyalty, and business acumen, is a central theme of the documentary. Bergé acts as both guardian and enabler, allowing Saint Laurent to continue creating despite his declining health.

Controversy and a Decade in Limbo

"Celebration" faced significant controversy and a lengthy delay before its eventual release. Bergé initially approved the film but later attempted to block its distribution, reportedly unhappy with the unflattering portrayal of Saint Laurent and the exposure of his vulnerabilities. The film was shelved for nearly a decade, adding to its mystique and anticipation.

The reasons for Bergé's change of heart remain a subject of speculation. Some believe he wanted to protect Saint Laurent's image and prevent the public from seeing him in such a vulnerable state. Others suggest that Bergé was concerned about the film revealing too much about the inner workings of the House of Saint Laurent and the power dynamics within the company.

Regardless of the reasons, the delay only served to heighten interest in the documentary. When "Celebration" was finally released, it was met with critical acclaim, praised for its unflinching portrayal of Yves Saint Laurent and its insightful exploration of the fashion world.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, "Celebration" garnered positive reviews from critics, who lauded its intimate access and unflinching honesty. Many praised Meyrou's observational style, which allowed viewers to draw their own conclusions about Saint Laurent and his world.

Critics noted the film's refusal to romanticize the fashion industry, instead presenting a realistic and often unflattering portrayal of the pressures and sacrifices involved in creating haute couture. The film's depiction of Saint Laurent's struggles with mental health and addiction was also praised for its sensitivity and honesty.

The documentary's legacy lies in its ability to humanize a fashion icon and offer a glimpse behind the carefully constructed facade of the fashion world. "Celebration" is not just a film about clothes; it's a film about creativity, ambition, love, and loss. It's a powerful and moving portrait of a man who changed the face of fashion and left an indelible mark on the world.

The Final Show: A Culmination of a Life's Work

The culminating event of "Celebration" is the presentation of Yves Saint Laurent's final haute couture collection. The film captures the tension and excitement leading up to the show, as well as the emotional atmosphere backstage.

The runway show itself is a spectacle of beauty and artistry. The film showcases the exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail that characterized Saint Laurent's designs. The models, including Laetitia Casta, glide down the runway in stunning gowns and suits, showcasing the designer's signature silhouettes and color palettes.

The show is a triumph, a fitting tribute to Saint Laurent's extraordinary career. However, the film also captures the bittersweet emotions surrounding the event. It's clear that this is the end of an era, and that Saint Laurent's departure will leave a void in the fashion world.

The final scenes of "Celebration" show Saint Laurent receiving a standing ovation from the audience. He looks frail and exhausted, but also proud and content. The film ends on a note of both sadness and celebration, acknowledging the end of a remarkable chapter in fashion history while also honoring the enduring legacy of Yves Saint Laurent.