Yves Saint Laurent, a man of incredible genius and an equal amount of unhappiness, had what should be all the elements for a successful life. His clothing designs were renowned, his art collection amazing, his lifestyle at the top of the A-list.
But he suffered from deep depression for practically his entire life, and reportedly was happy only two days a year, when his clothing collections werre seen on the Paris runways.
The third of three documentaries about Saint Laurent, "L'Amour Fou" ("Crazy Love") opens today, narrated by Pierre Berge, his partner in business and life for some 50 years. They met right after Saint Laurent became the head of the House of Dior at the age of 21. He died in 2008 after a half-century as one of the world's top designers. He battled depression with drugs, alcohol and parties for many years, and sometimes it worked, but he swore off illicit substances about 1990.
The two men amassed a almost-indescribable collection of paintings, sculptures and other objets d'art, arranged them beautifully in gorgeous houses. Berge put them up for auction in 2009 and they brought almost $500 million.
Pierre Theretton directed with a fine eye, and co-wrote the screenplay with Eve Gillou. Leo Hinsten cinematography is exciting. A sad story, but strong evidencve of a beautiful life.
L'Amour Fou opens today at the Plaza Frontenac
—Joe