Today, ARTE is premiering an exclusive documentary that focuses on the life and legacy of Gabrielle Chanel, the renowned creator of the fashion brand Chanel. Directed by Jean Lauritano in 2018, this 55-minute documentary takes a deep dive into the career and lesser-known aspects of Coco Chanel’s personality. Narrated by actor Lambert Wilson, the film explores the key periods of Gabrielle’s life, beginning with her difficult childhood. Orphaned at a young age, she was forced to work as a domestic servant when she was just 12 years old. Despite these challenging circumstances, Gabrielle’s early performances as a singer at the Grand Café in Moulins showcased her creativity, thirst for freedom, and strength of character.
The documentary sheds light on the qualities that eventually led Gabrielle to establish her own fashion house in 1910. However, it also delves into the darker aspects of Coco Chanel’s past, particularly her ambiguous actions and positions during the Second World War. These controversial choices ultimately led her to seek exile in Switzerland before returning to Paris to rebuild her fashion empire with increasingly daring collections.
“The Wars of Coco Chanel” is enriched with testimonies and previously unreleased excerpts from the archives of INA, a co-producer of the film. By decrypting this unconventional journey, viewers gain insight into the complex life of a woman who famously declared at the end of her life, “I have always fought.” This captivating documentary serves as a companion piece to reports dedicated to Karl Lagerfeld, the iconic artistic director of Chanel since 1983, who recently passed away on February 19th. Watching these documentaries in tandem provides a comprehensive understanding of the history and evolution of the revered double-C brand.
“The Wars of Coco Chanel” will be broadcast on ARTE on Sunday, March 3rd at 5:30 p.m. and 10:40 p.m. For those who miss the initial airing, the documentary will also be available on the ARTE.tv website until May 1st, 2019, as well as on DVD.
To further explore the fascinating world of Coco Chanel and gain a deeper understanding of her impact on the fashion industry, here are two useful links:
1. Chanel Official Website: Visit the official website of Chanel to discover more about the brand’s history, collections, and iconic designs.
2. Vogue UK – Gabrielle Coco Chanel: Check out this Vogue UK page dedicated to Coco Chanel, featuring articles, interviews, and fashion editorials showcasing her enduring influence.
