Director: Olivier Dahan
Cast: Marion Cotillard, Sylvie Testud, Gerard Depardieu, Jean Paul Rouve, Emmanuelle Seigner
RunTime: 140 mins
Genre: Music/Drama
Rating: NC-16 (Brief nudity and some drug references)

There are many reasons why you would fall in love with this movie. The music such as Non, je ne regrette rien, the dramatic life of Édith Piaf, or the unique directing style of Olivier Dahan.

After many American musical biographies from Ray, Johnny Cash to Bobby Darin, the shift to the equally, if not more erratic life of French singer Édith Piaf has its own touch of tenderness and charm.

Most of the songs in the movie are original recordings of Édith Piaf herself. No re-singing, just the authentic emotional depth that were in the songs.

Marion Cotillard’s portrayal of the emotional but lonely singer is nothing short of spectacular. From the sweet twenties to the idiosyncratic prime to the needy aged, she brings out the depth of the character, yet not overplaying it. At times, you feel scared by just looking at her. But there is this particular scene when she lost her loved one and portrayed her fragility like a rose. Bravo.

Many may complain about the non-linear, non-chronological method of story telling. It can be confusing the time shifts back and fourth and requires much concentration. But it shows how one part of her life can affect the other so strongly, and how the movie can be as unpredictable as her life.

A masterpiece with tears, laughter, and music. What more can I ask for?

La Vie En Rose - Très bon. Très bon