The documentary “High and Low – John Galliano” by Kevin Macdonald is a real eye-opener. It delves into the dark side of the fashion industry, focusing on John Galliano, Bernard Arnault, and their questionable actions. The film is straightforward and exposes the cynicism and moral shortcomings within the industry.
The documentary portrays the exploitation in John Galliano’s life, depicting how he was used by billionaire Bernard Arnault to enhance the glamour of high fashion. Galliano’s troubling behavior, including racist remarks and addiction struggles, is starkly shown. Despite this, he continues to receive praise from fashion elites like Naomi Campbell and Anna Wintour. The film ends with Galliano’s rise to the top, but it’s clear that Arnault benefits financially from his work.
The fashion industry thrives on toxic perceptions, where forgiveness is sought for some, like John Galliano, while others, like Kanye West, are deemed irredeemable. Racism, cultural theft, and other moral failings are overlooked, with alcoholism often used as an excuse. Bernard Arnault profits from this system, masking inhumanity behind addiction.
In the documentary, John Galliano’s journey is portrayed alongside Abel Gance’s 1927 film “Napoleon,” depicting him as vulnerable yet determined, like a modern-day Napoleon. Galliano’s escape from his abusive past into the fashion world is highlighted, but his later antisemitic behavior is a stark contrast. The film questions why celebrities like Kanye West face harsher judgment compared to Galliano, pointing to systemic issues perpetuated by figures like Arnault.
Kevin Macdonald’s documentary captures the injustice and elite protection surrounding John Galliano. Despite Galliano’s doubts, his dreams have been realized repeatedly, earning him the title of the “vainest man in fashion.”
Kevin Macdonald’s documentary deserves three stars for revealing the hypocrisy and exploitation within the fashion industry, with Bernard Arnault at the helm, John Galliano as a key player, and Macdonald as a fascinated observer.
Audiences will find “High and Low – John Galliano” captivating, not just for its insights into the fashion world and exploitative figures, but also for Kevin Macdonald’s compelling storytelling. Galliano’s adeptness at self-presentation raises questions about the sincerity of his apologies, while his relentless pursuit of success makes viewers ponder the true motivations behind his actions.
Kevin Macdonald’s use of archival footage, current interviews with Galliano, and exclusive interviews with A-listers is brilliant. He leaves no detail untouched, offering a disturbing yet enticing look into the truth of the story.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Focus | Exposes the dark side of the fashion industry, centered on John Galliano and Bernard Arnault’s questionable actions. |
| Exploitation | Highlights Galliano’s exploitation by Arnault for enhancing the glamour of high fashion. |
| Troubling Behavior | Depicts Galliano’s racist remarks and addiction struggles. |
| Industry Perception | Critiques the industry’s toxic perceptions, favoring forgiveness for some (like Galliano) while condemning others. |
| Comparison | Contrasts Galliano’s treatment with that of Kanye West, pointing to systemic issues perpetuated by figures like Arnault. |
| Storytelling | Portrays Galliano’s journey alongside Abel Gance’s film “Napoleon,” highlighting vulnerability and determination. |
| Impact | Captures injustice and elite protection, earning Galliano the title of the “vainest man in fashion.” |
| Rating | Deserves three stars for revealing hypocrisy and exploitation, with Macdonald as a fascinated observer. |
| Audience Engagement | Captivating insights into the fashion world and exploitative figures, with compelling storytelling by Macdonald. |
| Documentary Techniques | Brilliant use of archival footage, current interviews, and exclusive A-lister interviews. |
