Falbalas (1945) - film review

Philippe Clarence runs a successful fashion house in Paris, but he is also a shameful womaniser.  When he learns that his fabric supplier, Daniel, is engaged to be married, he flirts with the future bride, Micheline.  However, Micheline falls instantly in love with Philippe and, when Philippe himself realises he is in love – for the first time in his life -  the two plan to run away together.  Unfortunately, fate intervenes and deals a devastating blow to their elopement…

This film is a magnificent sortie for director Jacques Becker into the world of high fashion, in Paris, the centre of the universe of haute couture.  One of Becker’s darkest and most poignant films, Falbalas contrasts the artificiality of the fashion world with the harsh tangibility of a tragic romance, which ultimately descends into insanity and self-destruction.

The acting is impeccable, particularly Micheline Presle and Raymond Rouleau as Micheline and Philippe.  Rouleau’s portrayal of a man overwhelmed by love is both disturbing and deeply moving.

For a film of this period, the photography is quite exceptional – the use of light and dark to emphasise changes in mood, to suggest hidden conflict and guilt, is handled with masterful effect.  The viewer cannot helping being lured into Philippe’s shadow world when the fashion supremo loses his grip on reality.

Filming on Falbalas began almost immediately after the Liberation of France by the allies in 1944.  However, endless problems with power cuts and material shortages delayed its release until July 1945.  Whilst Becker was not entirely pleased with his film, mainly since it was set in a world which was far removed from his own experience, this is still widely regarded as one of his best films.

© James Travers 2001

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