Marion Cotillard's Piaf is Extraordinary

Rating: Null/10 (9 June 2007)

Cotillard's depiction of Piaf is the role which will define her acting career. Her flawless performance puts her on par with not only the other great talents of her generation (e.g., Cate Blanchett), but earns her a place in film history.
The role is a challenging one because Cotillard (who is 31) had to persuade viewers she was the adolescent Piaf as well as the 47 year-old invalided by drugs, arthritis, and cancer. Cotillard is a chameleon, and every gesture, look, movement, and word is credible and deeply moving. She also gives Piaf dignity, because though the icon is a physical ruin, Cotillard (and the director) did not let her become bitter.
The film itself is 'merely' an excellent biopic; Cotillard has arrived.