One of the Greatest, most tragic, well-acted biopics!

Rating: 10/10 (22 July 2007)

This film is exquisite. The cast is exceptional- especially the actress that plays Edith Piaf. She plays her over a long period of her life span, and though she does not actually sing, she acts incredibly.
The movie is extremely well made and touching. It begins with the early childhood of Edith. She begins as a street urchin who shortly later is abandoned by her mother. Her father finds her sickly ill and leaves her in the caring of a brothel. She is brought up by the girls there until her father returns from war and takes her into his care again. He holds the career of a circus contortionist until he leaves the circus. He begs on the street for money as a contortionist until he asks his young daughter to do something for the crowd. She bursts out into beautiful song and this shows the beginning of her notice of her miraculous talent.
Later, as a young adult performing on the street with her drunk friend, she is met by a man who gets her to perform in his cabaret club. The story continues showing her anguish, drug addiction, heartbreak, rise of fame, and illness. The film is a must see that will melt you into tears. It is one of the most memorable pics ever, and there is no doubt that the lead should be nominated next year for an Oscar.