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blog about pop culture (all cultures), literature, music and films

[brunettedelulu]

The Timeless Divas of the Arab World: Icons of Culture and Power.

The Arab world has produced an array of legendary divas whose influence transcends borders and generations. From the enchanting voices of classical music to the bold icons of modernity, these women have shaped Arab culture while challenging societal norms. Their contributions to music, cinema, and even political movements have left an indelible mark not just in the Middle East, but globally. Let’s explore the rich tapestry of the most influential Arab divas whose legacies endure today.

Umm Kulthum: The Voice of Egypt

Often referred to as “Kawkab al-Sharq” (Star of the East), Umm Kulthum’s impact on Arabic music is unparalleled. Born in Egypt at the turn of the 20th century, her powerful voice and unique ability to convey deep emotions made her a beloved figure throughout the Arab world. Her music, grounded in traditional Arabic scales yet modern in its approach, was a source of unity in a politically fragmented region. With songs like Al-Atlal and Enta Omri, Umm Kulthum became not just a cultural figure but a symbol of Arab identity and pride.

Her monthly radio performances in the mid-20th century would bring cities to a standstill. It wasn’t just her mastery of Arabic maqam or her exceptional vocal control that captivated audiences; it was her ability to tell the story of an entire nation through music. She remains an iconic figure, revered across generations as the quintessential Arab diva.

Fairuz: The Eternal Voice of Lebanon

Fairuz, known as the “Jewel of Lebanon,” emerged during a period of immense political upheaval in the Arab world. Her music became synonymous with the resilience and beauty of Lebanon, particularly during the Lebanese Civil War. Her collaboration with the Rahbani Brothers produced timeless classics that blended Western influences with Arabic tradition, a reflection of the cultural crossroads that Beirut represents.

Fairuz’s voice, often described as ethereal, manages to evoke both nostalgia and hope. Her songs like Bint El Shalabiya and Le Beirut are as much personal odes as they are collective anthems for displaced populations and war-torn regions. Today, Fairuz’s music serves as a bridge between the past and present, her voice still celebrated across the Arab diaspora.

Asmahan: The Tragic Diva

Asmahan, born to a Syrian Druze family in 1912, had a short but highly influential career. Her life was the stuff of legend—drama, intrigue, and an untimely death at the age of 31. With a voice that could effortlessly glide between classical Arabic music and Western operatic styles, Asmahan’s songs reflected the complex identity of a woman navigating multiple cultural worlds. She captivated audiences with songs like Ya Habibi Ta’ala and her starring roles in Egyptian cinema.

Her mysterious death in a car accident has only added to her allure, sparking countless theories and immortalizing her as one of the most enigmatic figures in Arab entertainment history. Her legacy lies in her versatility, her ability to cross genres, and her willingness to push against the confines of traditional gender roles in a conservative society.

Modern Divas: Sherine and Majida El Roumi

The modern Arab world continues to produce iconic divas who both respect tradition and embrace contemporary trends. Sherine Abdel-Wahab, with her dynamic voice and bold personality, has risen to become a pop sensation across the Arab world. Her music blends traditional Egyptian rhythms with modern pop, making her a standout in today’s competitive industry.

On the other end of the spectrum is Majida El Roumi, whose operatic voice and commitment to classical Arabic music have earned her a loyal fanbase. Majida’s songs are marked by their poetic depth and social consciousness, making her not just an entertainer but a cultural commentator.

Divas as Cultural Icons

The influence of Arab divas goes beyond their musical talents. They are symbols of cultural resilience, often representing the hopes and struggles of their respective countries. Whether through their music, public personas, or political engagements, these women have consistently broken barriers, offering an empowering narrative for future generations.

In a region where social and political upheavals are commonplace, the Arab diva stands as a beacon of continuity, a reminder of the region’s rich cultural heritage. Their voices, whether mournful or joyous, continue to resonate with millions, proving that the power of music knows no bounds.

[brunettedelulu]

🎸 The Evolution and Influence of British Rock: A Cultural Phenomenon.

The United Kingdom, a cradle of artistic innovation, has long been at the forefront of cultural revolutions. Among its most profound contributions to global culture is undoubtedly the genre of rock music. From the rebellious rhythms of the 1960s to the experimental sounds of the modern era, British rock has not only shaped the nation's musical landscape but has also wielded considerable influence on international audiences. The history of rock in the UK is a testament to the country’s ability to produce groundbreaking artists who challenge norms, inspire change, and leave an indelible mark on music history.

The Birth of British Rock: A Cultural Shift

While rock music had its roots in American blues and rock 'n' roll, it was in the United Kingdom where it evolved into a cultural phenomenon that would span decades. The 1960s marked the arrival of seminal British bands, most notably The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, whose sounds came to define an era. These groups, among others, drew heavily from American influences but added a uniquely British twist, blending the raw energy of rock with melodic innovations and socially conscious lyrics.

The “British Invasion” of the 1960s, where UK bands became immensely popular in the United States and beyond, marked the globalization of British rock. The Beatles, in particular, revolutionized not only music but also the very fabric of popular culture, setting trends in fashion, politics, and even philosophy. Their 1967 album Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band is often regarded as one of the most influential records of all time, pushing the boundaries of what rock music could achieve artistically.

Punk and the 1970s: A New Rebellion

As the optimism of the 1960s faded, the 1970s witnessed the rise of punk rock—a direct, raw, and unapologetic counter-movement that was born in the underground scenes of London. Bands like The Sex Pistols and The Clash eschewed the elaborate production and grandiosity that had characterized rock in the previous decade. Their music was stripped-down, aggressive, and often politically charged, providing a voice for the disillusioned youth of the time. Punk was not merely a genre but a subculture, with its own fashion, attitudes, and ethos of DIY (do-it-yourself) rebellion.

This period demonstrated British rock’s ability to adapt and evolve, reflecting the changing socio-political landscape of the country. The punk movement paved the way for post-punk and new wave bands such as Joy Division, The Cure, and The Smiths, who would dominate the alternative scene throughout the late 1970s and 1980s.

Britpop and the 1990s: A Renaissance of Identity

British rock experienced a significant resurgence in the 1990s with the advent of Britpop, a genre that celebrated British identity and culture. In contrast to the grunge movement that was sweeping across the United States, Britpop was characterized by its upbeat melodies and witty, often introspective lyrics. Leading bands of the era, such as Oasis, and Blur, revitalized the UK’s rock scene, harkening back to the spirit of the 1960s but with a fresh, contemporary twist.

Oasis’ (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, released in 1995, became a defining record of the decade, selling millions of copies worldwide and cementing the band’s place in rock history. Britpop’s success was a cultural response to the nation’s desire for a reaffirmation of British identity in a rapidly globalizing world, further establishing the UK's dominance in the music industry.

Modern British Rock: Continuing the Legacy

In recent years, British rock has continued to evolve, with artists drawing on a rich history while also pushing boundaries. Bands like Arctic Monkeys and Radiohead have redefined what modern rock can be, blending traditional elements with electronic music, experimental soundscapes, and introspective lyricism. British rock today is as diverse and eclectic as ever, showcasing the genre’s ability to innovate and remain relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape.

Conclusion :

The history of British rock is not merely a chronicle of music; it is a reflection of the nation’s social, political, and cultural transformations. From the British Invasion of the 1960s to the anthems of Britpop in the 1990s, each era of British rock has contributed to a legacy that continues to inspire and influence artists across the globe. As new generations of musicians emerge, British rock remains a powerful force, proof of its enduring appeal and its ability to capture the zeitgeist of the times.

[brunettedelulu]

The French New Wave: A Cinematic Revolution.

Introduction

The French New Wave, or Nouvelle Vague, is a cinematic movement that revolutionized French cinema and, by extension, global cinema. Emerging in the late 1950s, it marked a decisive break from the conventions of traditional filmmaking. This movement not only redefined the rules of directing but also spotlighted new talents who would go on to influence generations of filmmakers.

Origins of the French New Wave

The movement was born out of criticism, particularly through journals like Cahiers du cinéma, where young cinephiles such as François Truffaut, Jean-Luc Godard, and Éric Rohmer began expressing their dissatisfaction with the rigidity of French cinema at the time. These critics soon transitioned behind the camera to materialize their innovative ideas.

Characteristics of the French New Wave

- Narrative Freedom : Films of the New Wave are characterized by non-linear storytelling and a liberated approach to narrative structure. Plot often takes a back seat, with emphasis placed on emotion and the moment.

- On-location Filming : Unlike traditional cinema, which predominantly relied on studio settings, New Wave directors favored natural locations, lending their films a more realistic and immediate feel.

- Innovative Camera Techniques : The directors experimented with groundbreaking camera techniques such as handheld shots, long takes, and rapid editing. This dynamic approach contributed to a unique aesthetic that often blurred the lines between fiction and documentary.

- Non-professional Actors and Improvised Dialogues : To enhance realism, many New Wave filmmakers cast non-professional actors and encouraged improvisation, resulting in more natural and spontaneous dialogue.

Pioneering Figures

- Jean-Luc Godard : With films like Breathless (À bout de souffle, 1960), Godard introduced a bold and provocative style, challenging conventional editing and narrative techniques.

- François Truffaut : In The 400 Blows (Les 400 Coups, 1959), Truffaut explored autobiographical themes with a new sensibility, deeply resonating with audiences.

- Agnès Varda : Although sometimes considered on the periphery of the movement, Varda contributed significantly with works like Cléo from 5 to 7 (Cléo de 5 à 7, 1962), enriching the New Wave with a feminine and introspective perspective.

Three Must-See Films of the French New Wave

1. Breathless (1960) - Jean-Luc Godard

One of the cornerstones of the French New Wave, Breathless tells the story of Michel Poiccard, a petty criminal on the run, and his love for a young American, Patricia. The film is renowned for its innovative editing style, with abrupt cuts and a frenetic pace. Godard disrupted traditional cinematic conventions, delivering a daring work that perfectly embodies the rebellious spirit of the movement.

2. The 400 Blows (1959) - François Truffaut

Truffaut’s debut feature is an autobiographical masterpiece that follows the misadventures of Antoine Doinel, a young boy rebelling against authority. The 400 Blows is a poignant film that explores childhood, the misunderstanding of adults, and the quest for freedom. The film is distinguished by its realism and sensitivity, hallmarks of the New Wave.

3. Cléo from 5 to 7 (1962) - Agnès Varda

Often referred to as the "grandmother" of the New Wave, Agnès Varda offers an introspective and feminist perspective with Cléo from 5 to 7. The film follows Cléo, a singer awaiting potentially grave medical test results. Over the course of two hours, we watch her traverse Paris, encountering various characters. The film is remarkable for its exploration of time, mortality, and identity, while also capturing the essence of Parisian life.

The Impact of the French New Wave

The French New Wave profoundly influenced global cinema, paving the way for a new generation of directors willing to break conventions, both in Europe and in the United States. Filmmakers like Martin Scorsese, Quentin Tarantino, and Wong Kar-wai have frequently cited the New Wave as a major source of inspiration.

Conclusion

The French New Wave remains a pivotal movement in the history of cinema. By breaking with tradition and innovating both in form and content, these directors redefined what cinema could be. Even today, their influence is felt, proving that the New Wave has left an indelible mark on the art of filmmaking.

(yes it is)

[brunettedelulu]

🎥 How to Get into Cinema ?

You've probably heard people say, "My favourite film is Pulp Fiction," or "Mine is Fight Club."  But are these films really worth the hype? In my opinion, not necessarily. You don't need to watch the entire filmography of this particular director to feel legitimate talking about cinema. That's why I'm writing this article. Here, I'll introduce you to three films that are perfect for getting into cinema.

I didn't grow up in a family that watched a lot of films together, but thanks to my curiosity, I started watching more and more movies. Now, I have a pretty good knowledge of cinema. Let me share some of my favourite films that I think will help you appreciate the art of filmmaking.

🍰 Marie Antoinette by Sofia Coppola

We hear a LOT about Sofia Coppola, especially for her most famous film The Virgin Suicides, which is absolutely amazing and a film YOU should watch, but I wanted to talk about her Marie Antoinette. Well, we all know that she is the daughter of the very famous filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola (he did The Godfather series, which I have no intention of ever watching). I do not think that we should reduce her to this status. She is an amazing filmmaker with huge sensibility, comfortable handling the camera, and has excellent taste in music.

Marie Antoinette tells the story of the Austrian-born queen, the unloved wife of Louis XVI. Just out of adolescence, a young girl discovers a hostile, codified world, a frivolous universe where everyone observes and judges the other without kindness. Married to a clumsy man who neglects her, she quickly tires of the representational duties imposed on her. She escapes into the intoxication of partying and the pleasures of the senses to reinvent a world of her own. This film is modern, very pop, very fresh, and sensitive, with an excellent soundtrack. It won the Academy Award for Best Costume Design in 2007, and only by watching it will you know why!

🎞️ Cinema Paradiso by Giuseppe Tornatore

Giuseppe Tornatore is a renowned Italian filmmaker, known for his ability to craft deeply emotional and nostalgic films. His masterpiece, Cinema Paradiso, is a poignant love letter to the power of cinema and its ability to shape our lives.

So you’re feeling nostalgic ? The film tells the story of Salvatore, a successful film director, who returns to his Sicilian hometown after learning of the death of Alfredo, the projectionist at the local cinema where Salvatore spent much of his youth. Through a series of flashbacks, we witness Salvatore’s childhood and his growing love for films, largely nurtured by Alfredo's guidance. Cinema Paradiso captures the magic of movies and the impact they have on our lives, while also portraying the bittersweet passage of time and the changes it brings. The film won the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film in 1990, and its unforgettable score by Ennio Morricone only enhances its emotional depth.

🎹 La Pianiste by Michael Haneke

Michael Haneke is an Austrian filmmaker known for his unflinching and often unsettling approach to storytelling. His film La Pianiste (The Piano Teacher), based on the novel by Elfriede Jelinek, is a harrowing exploration of repression, obsession, and psychological trauma.

The story revolves around Erika Kohut, a repressed and emotionally troubled piano teacher played by Isabelle Huppert. Living with her overbearing mother, Erika’s life is a series of controlled routines and unfulfilled desires. When she begins a complex and increasingly disturbing relationship with one of her students, Walter Klemmer, the boundaries between pain and pleasure, control and submission, begin to blur. Haneke’s direction is clinical and precise, making the audience a voyeur to Erika’s psychological unravelling. La Pianiste won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival in 2001, and Huppert’s performance is both haunting and compelling.

If these films have piqued your interest and you’d like a second article with more recommendations, let me know in the comments! Enjoy your journey into the world of cinema.

[brunettedelulu]

Feminism and Pop Culture: A Complex Interplay.

In the contemporary socio-cultural landscape, the interplay between feminism and pop culture is both intricate and profound. Pop culture, encompassing various media forms like film, television, music, and literature, serves as a powerful vehicle for disseminating and challenging societal norms. Feminism, as a movement advocating for gender equality and the dismantling of patriarchal structures, finds a fertile yet contentious ground within this sphere.

The Evolution of Feminist Representation :

Historically, pop culture has been a double-edged sword for feminism. On one hand, it has perpetuated stereotypes and reinforced traditional gender roles. The early decades of cinema and television, for instance, often depicted women as passive, subservient, or overly sexualized. Such portrayals not only mirrored societal biases but also contributed to their perpetuation.

However, the feminist movement's waves have progressively infiltrated pop culture, demanding more nuanced and empowered representations of women. The 1970s and 1980s saw the emergence of strong female characters who defied conventional norms, such as Ellen Ripley in Alien and Sarah Connor in Terminator. These characters marked a shift, albeit a gradual one, towards a more complex portrayal of women in media.

Pop Culture as a Platform for Feminist Discourse :

In recent years, pop culture has become an increasingly significant platform for feminist discourse. The rise of social media has democratized content creation and dissemination, allowing feminist voices to challenge mainstream narratives more effectively. Movements like #MeToo have leveraged pop culture to bring issues of sexual harassment and gender inequality to the forefront of public consciousness.

Television series such as The Handmaid’s Tale and films like Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel reflect and amplify feminist ideals, resonating with audiences globally. These narratives not only provide entertainment but also serve as catalysts for discussions on gender politics, power dynamics, and societal change.

The Commercialization of Feminism :

However, the relationship between feminism and pop culture is not without its complexities and contradictions. One significant issue is the commercialization of feminism. Brands and media companies often co-opt feminist rhetoric for profit, diluting its radical essence in the process. This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as "commodity feminism," risks transforming a movement aimed at systemic change into a marketable trend devoid of its original political potency. The feminist slogan t-shirts, empowerment-themed advertisements, and "girl boss" narratives proliferating in pop culture can, at times, reduce feminism to a mere aesthetic or consumer choice, rather than a sustained commitment to gender justice. This superficial engagement with feminist ideals highlights the tension between authentic representation and commercial exploitation.

Intersectionality in Pop Culture :

A crucial aspect of modern feminist thought is intersectionality, a concept introduced by Kimberlé Crenshaw. Intersectionality posits that various forms of oppression, such as racism, sexism, and classism, are interconnected and cannot be examined in isolation. Pop culture's engagement with intersectionality has been mixed, with some progress and notable gaps.

For instance, while there have been strides in representing diverse female experiences, much work remains to be done. The success of films like Black Panther and shows like Pose demonstrates a growing recognition of the importance of inclusive storytelling. Yet, the underrepresentation and misrepresentation of marginalized groups, including women of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with disabilities, persist as critical issues.

Conclusion :

The intersection of feminism and pop culture is a dynamic and evolving terrain. Pop culture holds the potential to both challenge and reinforce societal norms, making it a vital arena for feminist engagement. As consumers and creators, it is imperative to critically examine the media we engage with, advocate for more authentic and inclusive representations, and resist the commodification of feminist ideals. By fostering a more nuanced understanding of gender and intersectionality within pop culture, we can contribute to a more equitable and just society. The journey towards this goal is ongoing, requiring vigilance, creativity, and a commitment to transformative change.

[brunettedelulu]

Why is creativity so challenging to cultivate these days ?

I am bored. Currently, I am dying of boredom. I try my hand at new activities: painting, reading, sculpture, photography... but to no avail, I remain bored. I attempt to pass the time on my phone. But even that fails to entertain me. I know we are no longer in the era of Louis XIV, where courtiers were plagued by ennui and had few diversions. I am simply trying to pass the time. So, I asked myself, why do all these activities I listed no longer entertain me? In other times, they would have been highly appreciated, wouldn't they? But then, why is creativity—our originality, our personality, this complex concept—so difficult for most young people today to develop?

Constant Hyperstimulation

The contemporary era, saturated with information and entertainment, crushes our capacity to tolerate boredom. This sensory overload paradoxically sterilizes the mind. Boredom, once fertile ground for imagination, is now banished, smothered by a deluge of prepackaged content. Time, that precious ally of creativity, dissolves in the superficiality of easy clicks.

Dictatorship of Productivity

Today's society imposes a frenetic pace, valuing immediate performance and relentless efficiency. Young people, under constant pressure, see their creativity suffocated by the urgency to succeed. Experimentation, essential to creative growth, collides with the fear of failure and the cult of perfection. Creativity becomes a luxury, a space of freedom sacrificed on the altar of immediacy.

The Distorting Mirror of Social Media

Social media, with its showcase of idealized lives, exerts an ambivalent influence. It inspires as much as it discourages, fostering incessant comparisons and a sense of inadequacy. The achievements of others, displayed in their best light, crush confidence in one's own ideas, undermining the fertile ground of originality.

Mental Saturation

Omnipresent visual and auditory stimuli saturate the mind, making it impermeable to new ideas. Creativity, which requires space to breathe and flourish, is stifled by the continuous flow of pre-digested information. In this world where gratification is instantaneous, the room for imagination shrinks like a withering skin.

The Possible Renaissance of Creativity

And yet, all is not lost. Rediscovering creativity involves simple actions: regularly disconnecting, embracing boredom as an opportunity, and accepting that creativity is not a linear process. By relearning to savor the journey rather than the destination, we may perhaps reclaim that elusive creative spark.

[brunettedelulu]

💫 How to get into feminist literature ?

☆ From margin to center: feminist theory by bell hooks. She is most well known for her feminist theory that recognizes that social classifications (e.g., race, gender, sexual identity, class, etc.) are interconnected, and that ignoring their intersection creates oppression towards women and change the experience of living as a woman in society. In this beautifully written and carefully argued work, hooks maintains that mainstream feminism's reliance on white, middle-class, and professional spokeswomen obscures the involvement, leadership, and centrality of women of colour and poor women in the movement for women's liberation.

☆ Women race and class by Angela Davis. It contains Marxist feminist analysis of gender, race and class. The third book written by Davis, it covers U.S. history from the slave trade and abolitionism movements to the women's liberation movements which began in the 1960s.

☆ One is not born a woman by Monique Wittig. In her essay One Is Not Born A Woman, Monique Wittig interrogates gender. The essay begins with “A materialist feminist approach to women’s oppression destroys the idea that women are a ‘natural group’: a racial group of a special kind, a group perceived as natural, a group of men considered as materially specific in their bodies.” Wittig tries to highlight the importance of questioning and deconstructing the concept and origin of womanhood using a material perspective. She argues that the idea and classification of women as a natural group is the base of the further oppression women deal with.

☆ The Second Sex (i skipped the first chapter bc biology...) by Simone Beauvoir. The Second Sex (French: Le Deuxième Sexe) is a 1949 book by the French existentialist philosopher Simone de Beauvoir, in which the author discusses the treatment of women in the present society as well as throughout all of history. Beauvoir researched and wrote the book in about 14 months between 1946 and 1949.

(you can fin all of these references on internet, give them a try !! )

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[brunettedelulu]

The Fig Tree Analogy *⁠.⁠✧

I saw my life branching out before me like the green fig tree in the story.

From the tip of every branch, like a fat purple fig, a wonderful future beckoned and winked. One fig was a husband and a happy home and children, and another fig was a famous poet and another fig was a brilliant professor, and another fig was Ee Gee, the amazing editor, and another fig was Europe and Africa and South America, and another fig was Constantin and Socrates and Attila and a pack of other lovers with queer names and offbeat professions, and another fig was an Olympic lady crew champion, and beyond and above these figs were many more figs I couldn't quite make out.

I saw myself sitting in the crotch of this fig tree, starving to death, just because I couldn't make up my mind which of the figs I would choose. I wanted each and every one of them, but choosing one meant losing all the rest, and, as I sat there, unable to decide, the figs began to wrinkle and go black, and, one by one, they plopped to the ground at my feet.

From, "The Bell Jar" by Sylvia Plath, 1963.

[brunettedelulu]

~ The Execution of Lady Jane Grey: a captivating narrative unveiled ~

Within the intricate tapestry of art,The Execution of Lady Jane Grey stands as a poignant testament to the human condition confronted with adversity. This compelling work transcends the confines of time to capture the very essence of tragedy.

Lady Jane Grey, a figure of historical significance, finds herself at the center of this gripping portrayal. As the nine-day queen of England, her fleeting reign and subsequent execution epitomize the tumultuous political landscape of Tudor England.

Through bold lines and masterful composition, the painting evokes a spectrum of complex emotions. The haunted gazes of the protagonists, their gestures steeped in despair, unveil a depth of soul that enthralls the viewer, beckoning them to delve into the heart of the unfolding drama.

Each brushstroke seems to whisper a tale, each shadow bears the weight of a tragic fate. As we contemplate this masterpiece, we are swept away in a whirlwind of emotions, confronted with the cruelty of history and the fragility of the human condition.

The Execution of Lady Jane Grey transcends the canvas to become a sensory experience. It invites each of us to explore the intricacies of the human condition, to reflect on notions of power, destiny, and sacrifice.

Ultimately, this magnificent work reminds us of the power of art to capture the very essence of humanity. It prompts us to ponder our own existence, our own struggles, and our capacity to find light even in the darkest of shadows.

[brunettedelulu]

~* Atonement by Ian McEwan ~*

Sumptuous book, incredible writing, a wordless ending, what more needs to be said?

McEwan's writing is incredible and there is NEVER a dull moment. This book is written in an indescribable way. I was speechless when I read it. McEwan's long descriptions take you away, it's extraordinary. I had never read a book like that, or at least I didn't expect what I was going to read. I couldn't put it down.

This rage, this hatred against Briony that carries us to the end of this book is indefinable, I don't have the words. I think you have to read this book to understand it. There is a lot to comment on, to remember about this book. I could talk about it for hours. The moral of the story will make you think about things you may have done or not.

Incredible book: 5/5

If you have read or watched the film, tell me your thoughts! xx

[brunettedelulu]

Kate Moss :

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Buffalo '66 - Vincent Gallo

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Jane Birkin, a retrospective on her life.

Jane Birkin, "divine babydoll :

Jane Birkin is a British actress, singer and fashion icon, born on December 14 1946 in London, England, to a father who was a commander in the Royal Navy and a mother who was an actress. She has enjoyed a prolific artistic career and has become an icon of French culture.

Her film debut :

In 1965, Jane Birkin made her film debut in Richard Lester's "The Knack...and How to Get It", which brought her a degree of recognition. She played a series of minor roles in various films until 1969, when she was cast as Penelope in Jacques Deray's "La Piscine" alongside the iconic duo of Alain Delon and Romy Schneider. However, it was her meeting with French musician and singer Serge Gainsbourg that changed the course of her career and catapulted her to stardom.

Gainsbourg's muse, but not only... :

Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg embarked on a romantic and artistic relationship, and had a daughter: Charlotte. Their most famous song, "Je t'aime... moi non plus", recorded in 1969, propelled the duo's popularity. But Jane always wanted to exist on her own and not just through Serge, as she explains in her book "Munkey Diaries".

A versatile muse :

Although she is best known as a singer and actress, she also had a significant influence in the fashion world. She was known for her casual look of simple blue jeans and a white T-shirt, her wicker basket, her long hair with fringes, and her natural make-up. Her appearance, combined with a nonchalant attitude, captivated many fashion designers of the time. The luxury brand Hermès created the famous "Birkin bag" inspired by the muse.

The iconic "Birkin" by Hermes :

The story goes that on a plane flight, Jane Birkin spilled the contents of her bag and complained to her neighbour about the difficulty of finding a bag suited to her needs. Her neighbour was none other than the CEO of Hermès, who then created a bag especially for her. Since then, the Birkin Bag has become the ultimate symbol of luxury and elegance, loved by celebrities and fashionistas the world over.

"My style is like a cocktail. I'm not as dressed up as a Frenchwoman, but I don't care like an Englishwoman." - Jane Birkin

[brunettedelulu]

Jane Birkin, I will miss you forever 💔.

[brunettedelulu]

🎥 List of my favourite films with a common esthetic:

🌟 Girl Interrupted by James Mangold

Protagonists :

Susanna Kaysen played by Winona Ryder

Lisa Rowe played by Angelina Jolie

💌 This film was just brilliant. The direction is incredible. I just loved it too much. It's gripping. It's the story of two girls who meet in a psychiatric hospital and we follow all their stories of escape, their mental disorders. It paints a really interesting portrait of these two young girls. And it's all totally infused with the atmosphere of the 90s. Girl Interrupted is a must-see, with very strong female characters, and many more female roles than male, which is also very interesting, as it is rarely seen.

🌟 Virgin Suicides by Sofia Coppola

Soundtrack: Air

💌 This is the story of five sisters living in a home on the outskirts of town, and these are their love stories. Their family is a bit unhealthy and there are stories of suicides. It's their stories as schoolgirls set to a soundtrack by Air. It's a very beautiful, contemplative film. It's a must-see. (Will dedicate a post for Sofia Coppola!!)

🌟 The Crush by Alan Shapiro

Protagonists :

Darian played by Alicia Silverstone Nick Eliot played by Cary Elwes

💌 It wasn't a monumental slap in the face, but it still fits in the aesthetic. It's the story of a journalist in his 30s who rents a small cottage in the house on a property. It just so happens that lives a young girl who is going to become completely completely crazy about this man. This is the story of the two of them. It's a sickly obsession covered in a veil of madness and passion, which is very interesting and something you find a lot in this kind of film.

🌟 Submarine by Richard Ayoade

Soundtrack: Alex Turner

💌 This is the story of a young teenager who dreams of going out with this rather unattainable girl and who is also very concerned about the situation of his mother, who is being seduced by another man. It's a really lovely story, with very pretty landscapes of Wales and it's very pleasant to watch with an incredible soundtrack that embellishes this film. I really enjoyed it and it's a must-see.

Hope you'll enjoy them ! Don't forget to tell me your thoughts xx 🎀

[brunettedelulu]

Actress and singer Françoise Hardy