La Vie en Rose ****
This emotional account of the life of Edith Piaf gives great insight and understanding into her charming character. The structure of the film as a whole cleverly mimics the nature of memory, and the non-linear timeline works effectively, but is sometimes spoilt by subtitles informing "3 years later" or suchlike. This is unnecessary, and would work better if left more abstract, imitating Piaf's selective and wandering mind.
Another result of this structure is the restriction of certain information, for example, near the end we become aware that Piaf had a daughter who dies at a young age. It is somewhat frustrating to be presented with this so late into the movie, and it is impossible to buy into the storyline with anywhere near as much emotional currency as we do the rest of the narrative. Despite this, the gaps left do compel one to further research Piaf, within the context of the fascinating entire film.
The movie contains wonderful use of memorable and evocative imagery, including Piaf in a blindfold as a child, 'clown'-like lips in a brothel, and a floor covered with red roses by Piaf's lover. The performances are excellent (of course in particular the Oscar-winning and Oscar-worthy Marion Cotillard), and the music is exciting and uplifting. The thrill of Edith Piaf is truly captured here, for fans to love, and unfamiliars to discover from.
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