yves saint laurent plot summary | is yves st laurent ill

Yves Saint Laurent, the 2014 French biographical drama directed by Jalil Lespert, offers a captivating glimpse into the tumultuous life and extraordinary career of the iconic fashion designer. Co-written by Jacques Fieschi, Jérémie Guez, and Marie-Pierre Huster, the film meticulously chronicles Saint Laurent's journey from a young, insecure prodigy to a revolutionary force in the world of haute couture, beginning in 1958. More than just a fashion biopic, "Yves Saint Laurent" delves into the complex relationships, inner demons, and artistic brilliance that shaped the man behind the legendary brand. The film stars Pierre Niney as Yves Saint Laurent, delivering a performance of remarkable nuance and sensitivity, alongside Guillaume Gallienne as Pierre Bergé, his lifelong business partner and lover, Charlotte Le Bon, Laura Smet, and Marie de Villepin in supporting roles.

The film opens in 1958, Paris, a city steeped in tradition and the established norms of the fashion world. A young, nervous Yves Saint Laurent (Pierre Niney) is working as a designer under Christian Dior, the reigning king of haute couture. Dior recognizes Yves’s exceptional talent and artistic vision, effectively grooming him as his successor. Yves, though shy and plagued by self-doubt, possesses a remarkable gift – an innate understanding of shape, color, and the desires of women. He sketches tirelessly, pouring his heart and soul onto paper, his designs hinting at a modern sensibility that challenges the rigid structures of the time.

Dior's sudden death thrusts the 21-year-old Yves into the spotlight, making him the head designer of the House of Dior. The pressure is immense, and Yves is overwhelmed by the expectations placed upon him. His first collection for Dior is a resounding success, establishing him as a rising star and confirming his place as the future of French fashion. However, the weight of responsibility and the constant scrutiny begin to take their toll.

During this period, Yves meets Pierre Bergé (Guillaume Gallienne), an art collector and shrewd businessman who instantly recognizes Yves's genius and potential. Bergé becomes Yves's mentor, lover, and, most importantly, his unwavering protector. He sees in Yves not just a talented designer but a visionary capable of transforming the fashion landscape. Bergé becomes the anchor in Yves's increasingly turbulent life, providing the stability and support he desperately needs to navigate the cutthroat world of haute couture.

The film then portrays Yves's conscription into the French army during the Algerian War. The experience is deeply traumatic for the sensitive and already fragile Yves. He suffers a nervous breakdown and is subsequently discharged, but the psychological damage is profound. This period marks the beginning of Yves's struggles with mental health, including depression and anxiety, which would plague him throughout his life.

Upon his return to Paris, Yves finds himself ousted from Dior. This betrayal, coupled with his deteriorating mental health, fuels his determination to break free from the constraints of the established fashion houses and create his own brand. With the unwavering support of Pierre Bergé, Yves embarks on the ambitious journey of establishing the Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) fashion house.

The creation of YSL is portrayed as a monumental undertaking, fraught with challenges and obstacles. Yves, driven by his artistic vision and Bergé's business acumen, defies convention and challenges the status quo. They secure funding, assemble a team of talented individuals, and begin to develop their unique brand identity. The film highlights the creative process behind some of Yves's most iconic designs, showcasing his innovative use of color, fabric, and silhouette.

The film vividly depicts the evolution of Yves's design philosophy. He draws inspiration from art, culture, and the changing social landscape. He introduces the "Le Smoking" tuxedo suit for women, a revolutionary design that challenges traditional gender roles and empowers women. He pioneers the concept of ready-to-wear fashion, making high fashion accessible to a wider audience. His collections are bold, daring, and unapologetically modern, reflecting his desire to liberate women from the restrictive styles of the past.

"Yves Saint Laurent" doesn't shy away from portraying the darker aspects of Yves's life. As his fame and success grow, so too do his personal struggles. He becomes increasingly reliant on drugs and alcohol to cope with the pressure and anxiety. His relationship with Bergé is tested by his infidelity and erratic behavior. The film explores the complex dynamic between Yves and Bergé, highlighting their deep love and unwavering loyalty, even amidst the turmoil.

The film also introduces other significant figures in Yves's life, including his muse, Loulou de la Falaise. Loulou becomes a close friend and confidante, providing him with inspiration and support. She embodies the modern, liberated woman that Yves seeks to dress, and her influence on his designs is evident.

Throughout the film, the audience witnesses the gradual decline of Yves's physical and mental health. His addiction spirals out of control, and his creative output becomes increasingly erratic. Bergé struggles to manage Yves's self-destructive tendencies while simultaneously protecting his reputation and ensuring the continued success of the YSL brand.

Despite his personal struggles, Yves continues to produce groundbreaking collections, pushing the boundaries of fashion and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest designers of all time. The film showcases the iconic Mondrian dress, a testament to Yves's ability to translate art into wearable fashion. It also depicts the creation of his signature fragrance, Opium, which becomes a global phenomenon.yves saint laurent plot summary