Disturbing, fascinating, heart-breaking, beautiful...

Rating: 10/10 (20 August 2007)

I have just seen this movie about the life of Edith Piaf and it's difficult even to find words. As far as I'm concerned, pointing out weaknesses and negative points will be left for critics as I'm still spellbound by this absolute masterpiece, with the acting as well as the directing being way beyond the average. The script is wonderful, dialogue is subtle, even funny, which is in sharp contrast with the extraordinary and tragic fate of an exceptional woman, but at the same time renders the story absolutely authentic, unbelievable as it may seem at first sight that all that is shown was once reality. Dahan's choice to approach the two ends of Piaf's life also serves to highlight this contrast.
But most probably the person who is most responsible for the force with which the story draws you in and doesn't let you go is Marion Cotillard, of whom I can only speak in superlatives. She gave such a performance that I can say I've never seen in my life, and I could hardly believe a thirtysomething woman could bring to the screen. But she could, and she was amazingly convincing. If the film could be nominated for an Oscar, she would definitely deserve the one for lead actress.
Apart from that, the marvellous "chansons" of Piaf contribute a lot, obviously, to the overall effect. I think I have taken to this genre - but even if not for the songs, I can recommend it to everyone who likes sensitive movie-making, where the emotions are always real even when in the extreme, where words carefully picked, melodies and silence complete each other into a complex and meaningful whole. And the most beautiful thing about the film is perhaps that in spite of all the tragedies it shows, it's an unquestionable affirmation of the desire to live.
Immaculate - it's a ten.