Secrets of Selfridges

"Secrets of Selfridges" is a captivating film that first met the eyes of viewers in 2014. This fascinating documentary revolves around the iconic Selfridges department store on London's Oxford Street, a monolith of British retail that has dominated the commercial scene for over a century. Talented actor Samuel West, known for his stints in "Howards End" and "Notting Hill", lends his voice to narrate the thrilling journey of this retail pioneer.

Directed by Sam Taplin, "Secrets of Selfridges" embarks on a thrilling journey through time that mirrors the evolution of the retail industry itself. The film uncovers the feats and fiascoes of Harry Gordon Selfridge, the man who revolutionized the concept of shopping and laid the foundation for the department store as we know it today.

At the core of "Secrets of Selfridges" is Harry Gordon Selfridge, an American-born retail tycoon. Born in Wisconsin in 1858, Selfridge grew up under the influence of his mother, a school teacher. He developed his business savvy at Marshall Field & Company, a Chicago-based department store. From there, his journey took him across the ocean, all the way to London where he established the Selfridge & Co. department store on London's Oxford Street in 1908.

The film explores the life and legacy of Harry Gordon Selfridge, an enigmatic character often likened to his 20th-century contemporary, F.W. Woolworth. Beyond being a businessman, Selfridge was an innovator and showman, he brought the concept of a department store, a new vision of retail, to the British society. He transformed the process of shopping into a theatrical experience, creating drama, excitement and even a touch of glamour. He is often credited as the man who put “the fun into shopping.” Selfridge's legacy boils down to not just a retail store, but a theatre of retail where every product tells a story.

Composed with great precision, "Secrets of Selfridges" traces the life of this bold businessman right from his early days in Ripon, Wisconsin to his breakthrough moment in Chicago and later, his golden era in London. It looks into his visionary mind and foresightedness that literally transform shopping into an enjoyable experience in the United Kingdom. Samuel West's impassioned narration keeps viewers engaged, stimulating their curiosity about the man behind the retail phenomenon.

"Secrets of Selfridges" is not just about Selfridge or his department store. It is about the refashioning of British retail system, women's evolving role in society, and the power of innovation. As much as it is a business study, it is also an epic tale of ascension, opulence, downfall, and redemption. This film is a salute to an unsung hero and an unquestionable dedication to invention.

The film showcases how Selfridge made shopping a respectable activity for ladies, thereby supporting the feminist movement of the era. It explores Harry’s love for his wife Rose, his relationship with esteemed architect Daniel Burnham, and his controversial partnerships with early Hollywood icons.

While it chronicles the transformative journey of Harry Selfridge, the film doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of the man. Selfridge’s love of gambling, lavish lifestyle, and a string of affairs, all that eventually led to his downfall, are scrutinized with equal rigour.

"Secrets of Selfridges" makes fantastic use of archive footage, interviews, beautiful imagery and narrative storytelling. Every detail is painstakingly presented to the viewers, helping them step into the world of the early 20th-century retail transformation. Its visual storytelling and Samuel West's compelling narration make this film an insightful watch for not only those interested in the history of retail but also those who appreciate the art of entrepreneurship and innovation.

To sum up, the 2014 film "Secrets of Selfridges" is the magnifying glass that reveals the salute-worthy contribution of Harry Gordon Selfridge to transform the face of British retail. His vision and tenacity resulted in the premier lifestyle store that continues to shape fashion and commerce even today. It is a must-watch for those eager to take a stroll down the fascinating lanes of history, replete with compelling characters, time-changing ideas, and a fair share of life's ups and downs. Samuel West's immersive narration takes the viewers on a mesmerizing trip to the ‘cathedral of retail’ standing tall and proud on London's Oxford Street.