During the war, Christian Dior (Ben Mendelsohn) was employed by Lucien Lelong (John Malkovich), a couturier who did not make any designs himself. Shot from ‘The new look’. — © Apple TV+
Can a series about fashion designers be interesting for people who have no idea of cut and seam? ‘The new look’ proves so. The makers have nicely selected the most interesting drama.
Wednesday, February 14, 2024 at 3:00 AM
The series parallels the evolution of the innovative couturiers Christian Dior and Coco Chanel during the war years in occupied Paris. For Dior, those years were the run-up to its own fashion house and a new fashion style (the new look) and for Chanel they meant the end of its good reputation.
© Apple TV+
We get to know Dior (Australian Ben Mendelsohn) when he is still employed by Lucien Lelong (John Malkovich), the couturier who has his designers make clothes for the Nazis. Dior is in trouble, but he needs money. Through his sister Catherine he becomes semi-involved in the resistance. When Catherine is arrested by the Gestapo, Christian is willing to do anything to get her released.
© Apple TV+
Meanwhile, Coco Chanel (Juliette Binoche) sees a golden opportunity in the arrival of the Germans. After all, she wants complete control over her perfume Chanel No. 5, which is owned by two Jewish businessmen with whom she had made a deal in 1924. After all, Nazi laws stipulate that Jews are not allowed to run a business.
Even those who don’t know who Dior and Chanel are will enjoy this series. The story of the most crucial period of their lives is more fascinating than most war dramas. The script doesn’t contain an ounce of fat and actors Mendelsohn and Binoche are very convincing. What is a bit annoying is the English with a silly French accent. You can’t have everything in life.(cc)
You can now stream ‘The new look’ on Apple TV+
© Apple TV+