Absolument fabuleux

Absolument fabuleux, released in 2001, is a French comedy film directed by Gabriel Aghion, featuring acclaimed actresses Josiane Balasko, Nathalie Baye, and Marie Gillain. This film is a French adaptation of the British television show "Absolutely Fabulous," so fans of the original series are likely to appreciate the movie's comic absurdity, vibrant fashion references, and excessive yet charming party scenes.

Absolument fabuleux unravels the lives of two distinctly flamboyant, eccentric women – Eddy (Josiane Balasko), an extravagant PR executive, and Patsy (Nathalie Baye), a chic magazine editor. Both characters are unstoppably drawn to fashion, parties, and an indulgent lifestyle. They aspire to immerse themselves in the luminosity of limitless glamour, to the point of disregarding the norms and conventions their peer group find themselves limited to. This film is most pronounced for its hysterical comedy, gender commentary, and daring use of fashion as a narrative tool.

Eddy and Patsy are undoubtedly the life and soul of every party and fear the prospect of ageing. Their mutual yearning for youth, beauty, and social relevance leads them to make some rather questionable decisions, keeping the film light-hearted, entertaining, and filled with continuous laughter. Along the course of the film, the viewers get a unique insight into the unapologetic self-indulgence of these characters, enabling a deeper understanding of their motivations and fears.

In direct contrast to Eddy's reckless lifestyle, her daughter, Safrane (Marie Gillain), is serious, grounded, and mature beyond her years. Safrane, portrayed as a responsible, level-headed individual, serves as the voice of reason within the chaotic household, often to humorous effects. Her character exhibits a significant level of development, portraying a realistic yet amusing family relationship scenario that adds depth and authenticity to the storyline.

Director Gabriel Aghion breathed life into the original series' premise, making it appealing for an audience unfamiliar with the British series. Aghion's direction artfully merges British humor with French comedy, serving a dual purpose of entertainment and cultural amalgamation. Coupled with the extravagant attire, lush scenes, and high-class Parisian backdrop, Absolument fabuleux further accentuates the love of luxury and the fear of mundanity.

The performances by Josiane Balasko and Nathalie Baye are engaging and over-the-top in the best way possible. Their comic timing and chemistry contribute significantly to the film's entertainment quotient. Balasko, popularly known for her comedic roles, fittingly commits to Eddy's selfish and ungainly character. On the other hand, Baye offers something entirely different, embodying the glamorous and nonchalant Patsy with flair and finesse.

Marie Gillain's role as Safrane is instrumental in grounding the film's narrative, and her portrayal adds a layer of seriousness to the otherwise whimsical storyline. Her character serves as a needed counterpoint, masterfully executed by Gillain, introducing viewer to an array of humane moments that further enrich the storyline.

The film's costume design is another noteworthy aspect. The excessive flamboyance in Eddy and Patsy's wardrobes, in stark contrast to Safrane's sophisticated ensemble, visually mirrors their personalities and adds texture to the film's aesthetic. The film's score, featuring pop music, complements and enhances the infectious energy that pervades the narrative.

Overall, Absolument fabuleux is a bold, vibrant, and thoroughly entertaining comedy that uncovers the fear of ageing, the struggles of motherhood, and the pursuit of youth and glamour - all coated by a layer of laugh-out-loud humor and fashion-forward fabulousness. It's a must-watch for fans of satirical comedies, character-driven narratives, and fiercely fashionable films.