Our take
La Vie en Rose isn’t exactly a rosier biopic compared to others. After all, this is about Edith Piaf, one of the greatest singers from France, and her life hasn’t been easy, as seen through the non-linear vignettes. Perhaps it’s because of this difficult past that this film somewhat echoes many other biopics. Ultimately, however, La Môme proves to be compelling due to the strength of who portrayed Piaf. Marion Cotillard may not be the voice behind all the songs– some were performed by Jil Aigrot, and others recorded by Piaf herself– but her total transformation in multiple phases of Piaf’s life was quite outstanding. Regardless of its flaws, La Vie en Rose is a beautiful celebration that does well in bringing back interest in her work.
What it won
Oscars
2 wins · 1 nom
Golden Globes
1 nom
BAFTA
4 wins · 4 noms
SAG Awards
1 nom
Nat. Board of Review
1 win
LAFCA
1 win
European Film Awards
3 noms
César Awards
5 wins · 6 noms
The story
From the mean streets of the Belleville district of Paris to the dazzling limelight of New York's most famous concert halls, Edith Piaf's life was a constant battle to sing and survive, to live and love. Raised in her grandmother's brothel, Piaf was discovered in 1935 by nightclub owner Louis Leplee, who persuaded her to sing despite her extreme nervousness. Piaf became one of France's immortal icons, her voice one of the indelible signatures of the 20th century.
From the mean streets of the Belleville district of Paris to the dazzling limelight of New York's most famous concert halls, Edith Piaf's life was a constant battle to sing and survive, to live and love. Raised in her grandmother's brothel, Piaf was discovered in 1935 by nightclub owner Louis Leplee, who persuaded her to sing despite her extreme nervousness. Piaf became one of France's immortal icons, her voice one of the indelible signatures of the 20th century.
The details
Who picked it
Isabella Endrinal is a curator at A Good Movie to Watch. She's now free from the corporate night shift. Previous articles have been published in outlets such as NANG Magazine. She's currently catching up on some classic films… if she isn't coping with the fact that the Haikyu anime will end soon.
