The Karl Lagerfeld documentary, titled “The Mysterious Mr Lagerfeld,” has garnered rave reviews after recently airing on the BBC in the UK. Directed by Michael Waldman, the film is set to be released globally, coinciding with the Karl-themed Met Gala and the Lagerfeld exhibition at the Met. This perfect timing further emphasizes the importance of Lagerfeld as a legendary fashion designer.
Initially, Lagerfeld may not have been as widely recognized as his contemporaries, like Yves Saint Laurent, outside of the fashion world. However, over the years, Lagerfeld’s fame grew exponentially, and his influence on women’s fashion spanned multiple decades. The documentary sheds light on this extraordinary journey and showcases Lagerfeld’s significant impact on the fashion industry.
In the style of the popular documentary series “Kingdom of Dreams,” “The Mysterious Mr Lagerfeld” provides a unique and authentic glimpse into the world of high-end fashion. Unlike fictional or reality TV shows, this film captures the essence of Lagerfeld’s career and offers genuine insights that cannot be replicated elsewhere. While the documentary may initially frustrate viewers with its unconventional structure and lack of a chronological timeline, embracing this approach ultimately leads to an enjoyable and enlightening experience.
The film not only highlights Lagerfeld’s extravagant backdrops for Chanel shows and iconic designs but also delves deeper into his personal life. It introduces viewers to the two male supermodels, Baptiste Giabiconi and Brad Kroenig, who played the roles of surrogate sons to Lagerfeld. Their own children became Lagerfeld’s godsons and even made regular appearances in Chanel shows. Moreover, the documentary sheds light on Lagerfeld’s romantic relationships, notably with Jacques de Bascher, who had a tragic connection to Lagerfeld’s rival, Yves Saint Laurent. Additionally, audiences get introduced to Choupette, Lagerfeld’s beloved cat-turned-superstar, and his American niece, who offers a refreshing perspective by sharing her honest experiences with her famous uncle.
The documentary also features insights from executives from Chanel and Lagerfeld’s label, former editors of Vogue Paris, Lagerfeld’s muse Amanda Harlech, and various other individuals who provide additional perspectives on the designer’s life. Through these different viewpoints, a complex portrait of Lagerfeld emerges, showcasing both his appealing qualities and his flaws. The film fearlessly addresses controversial moments, such as Lagerfeld’s contentious comments about Adele’s weight and his harsh remarks about Coco Chanel. Simultaneously, it highlights his generosity, loyalty, impeccable taste, cultural interests, and extravagant spending habits.
“The Mysterious Mr Lagerfeld” ultimately leaves viewers craving more, a testament to its quality and the captivating story it tells. This documentary offers a fascinating and intimate look into the extraordinary life of Karl Lagerfeld. It solidifies his status as a fashion phenomenon and further reinforces his significant impact on the industry.
Useful links regarding the Karl Lagerfeld documentary:
1. BBC Official Page – “The Mysterious Mr Lagerfeld”
2. Vogue – Review of “The Mysterious Mr Lagerfeld” Documentary
