pierre niney yves saint laurent interview | Pierre Niney on playing Yves Saint Laurent

The 2014 biopic, *Yves Saint Laurent*, directed by Jalil Lespert, was a cinematic event, not only for its exploration of the life of the iconic designer but also for the captivating performance of Pierre Niney in the titular role. The film delves into the tumultuous journey of Yves Saint Laurent, from his early days taking the reins at Dior to the creation of his own groundbreaking fashion house and his complex relationship with Pierre Bergé. While the film was praised for its opulent visuals and compelling narrative, it was Niney's portrayal of the fragile genius that truly resonated with audiences, earning him critical acclaim and the César Award for Best Actor in 2015. This article will explore the film, focusing particularly on Niney's insights into embodying such a legendary figure, drawing from various interviews and reviews surrounding the film’s release.

The Weight of Responsibility: Embodying a Legend

Taking on the role of Yves Saint Laurent was undoubtedly a daunting task for Pierre Niney. Saint Laurent's impact on the fashion world and popular culture is undeniable, and his personal life was both celebrated and scrutinized. The pressure to accurately and respectfully portray such a complex individual weighed heavily on the young actor.

In numerous interviews surrounding the film's release, Niney discussed the intense preparation he underwent to immerse himself in the world of Yves Saint Laurent. This included extensive research into the designer's life, studying archival footage, reading biographies, and even working closely with people who knew Saint Laurent personally.

“The biggest challenge was to be faithful to the man, to his complexity, to his fragility, to his genius,” Niney explained in one interview. “I wanted to understand him, not just imitate him. I spent months reading, watching, listening, trying to absorb everything I could about him.”

He also emphasized the importance of capturing Saint Laurent's internal struggles. "He was a man of immense talent, but also of deep insecurities. He was constantly battling his demons, and that vulnerability was a crucial part of his character."

Collaboration with Jalil Lespert: A Shared Vision

The success of *Yves Saint Laurent* was not solely dependent on Niney's performance. The film was also a product of a strong collaboration between the actor and director Jalil Lespert. Lespert's vision for the film was to create an intimate and honest portrayal of Saint Laurent, avoiding sensationalism and focusing on the human element.

Niney often spoke highly of Lespert's guidance and support throughout the production. "Jalil was incredibly supportive and encouraging," he said. "He gave me the freedom to explore the character and to make it my own, while also ensuring that I remained true to the essence of Yves Saint Laurent."

Lespert, in turn, praised Niney's dedication and commitment to the role. "Pierre completely transformed himself," Lespert said. "He captured the essence of Yves Saint Laurent, both his brilliance and his vulnerability. It was an extraordinary performance."pierre niney yves saint laurent interview

The director's decision to use Saint Laurent's original designs in the film added another layer of authenticity. This allowed Niney to literally step into the shoes of the designer, further immersing himself in the role.

Beyond Imitation: Finding the Inner Yves Saint Laurent

Niney's approach to portraying Yves Saint Laurent went beyond mere imitation. He sought to understand the designer's inner world, his motivations, and his struggles. He delved into the psychological complexities of a man who was both a visionary and a deeply troubled individual.

"I didn't want to just mimic his mannerisms or his voice," Niney explained. "I wanted to understand what drove him, what inspired him, and what tormented him. I wanted to capture the essence of his being."

He spent considerable time analyzing Saint Laurent's creative process, his relationship with Pierre Bergé, and his battles with mental health issues. He also focused on Saint Laurent's passion for art and his constant search for beauty.

This deep understanding allowed Niney to deliver a performance that was both convincing and emotionally resonant. He captured the designer's fragility, his brilliance, and his inner turmoil with remarkable accuracy.

The Impact of Pierre Bergé: A Complex Relationship

The film also explores the complex and often turbulent relationship between Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, played by Guillaume Gallienne. Bergé was Saint Laurent's business partner, his lover, and his lifelong protector. Their relationship was a cornerstone of Saint Laurent's life and career, and the film delves into the complexities of their bond.

Niney and Gallienne's on-screen chemistry was crucial to the success of the film. They convincingly portrayed the deep love, loyalty, and occasional friction that characterized the relationship between Saint Laurent and Bergé.

"Guillaume and I worked very hard to create a believable and authentic portrayal of their relationship," Niney said. "We wanted to show the love and support that they had for each other, but also the challenges and conflicts that they faced."

The film portrays Bergé as a stabilizing force in Saint Laurent's life, a constant source of support and encouragement. However, it also shows the power dynamics inherent in their relationship, with Bergé often taking on the role of protector and manager.

Critical Acclaim and the César Award