Dalida

The 2016 French biographical drama film Dalida, directed by Lisa Azuelos, is a passionate and intense portrayal of the life and career of the internationally acclaimed singer Yolanda Cristina Gigliotti, known by her stage name, Dalida. Sveva Alviti plays the titular role with an electrifying performance that captures Dalida's charisma, emotional struggle, and undeniable talent with accuracy and flair. The film also features Riccardo Scamarcio and Jean-Paul Rouve, who offer commendable performances, contributing to the authenticity and resonance of Dalida's narrative.

Dalida charts the life of the renowned singer from her birth in Egypt in 1933 to her tragic suicide in 1987. Through Alviti's prolific portrayal, the audience follows the journey of a young beauty queen winner who becomes a global singing sensation. Dalida's journey from a humble upbringing to her rise to fame is captured with careful attention to detail. Her meteoric rise in the music world is clearly portrayed, showcasing her powerhouse talent that gained her worldwide acclaim and recognition. With a discography that contains over 70 platinum records, her cultural impact and influence on the music world, especially in France and the Mediterranean region, is well recognized.

However, Dalida is not just a chronicle of the singer's career; it dives deeply into the personal struggles and emotional turmoil that often characterized her life behind the scenes. The film delves into Dalida's deeply troubled personal life, her struggles with fame, and her complex relationships with men who, despite often being destructive, shaped her life and music significantly. From her tumultuous relationships with Lucien Morisse, played by Jean-Paul Rouve, to her deep connection with Luigi Tenco, played by Riccardo Scamarcio, the film offers a striking depiction of Dalida's passion, vulnerability, and resilience.

The dynamic interaction of the characters provides a gripping emotional narrative that uncovers the human figure behind the entertainment icon. Beyond her soaring success as a singer, Dalida was also a woman looking for happiness, longing for love, and battling immense personal turmoil which the movie superbly portrays. The lingering theme of contrasting light and darkness, happiness and sadness, fame and solitude underpin the narrative, highlighting Dalida's emotional battles and hinting at the tragedy that ultimately marked her life.

Asides from the stunning performances, the movie features exceptional production values. The carefully selected soundtracks echo Dalida's greatest hits, immersing everyone into the captivating musical era of her stardom. The exquisite costumes and set designs transport the viewers back to the glitz and glamour of the period, enveloping them in an authentic experience of the 50s, all the way through the 80s. Lisa Azuelos’s thoughtful direction adds depth, bringing the beauty and pain of Dalida's journey to life in a visually tantalizing format.

Moreover, Sveva Alviti is arrestingly compelling as Dalida. Not only does she bear a striking physical resemblance to the iconic singer, but her performance captures the life force, the spirit, and the sorrow of the woman she portrays. Riccardo Scamarcio and Jean-Paul Rouve, each within their own roles, enhance the narrative with their excellent interpretations of key individuals in Dalida's life, revealing the profound impact they had on her person and her art.

In sum, Dalida is a powerful biopic that pays homage to one of the most iconic singers of the 20th century. It is an exploration of stardom, love, and tragedy as experienced by an extraordinary woman. It presents a raw and real image of a superstar living in the shadow of melancholy, often hiding behind her radiant starlight. The film offers a rich narrative loaded with incredible music, exquisite fashion, and a poignant exploration of a life filled with success yet tragically marked by personal struggle. It is a must-watch for fans of Dalida and for those interested in the extraordinary stories of cultural icons.