41/365 The September Issue

Starring: Anna Wintour, Grace Coddington, various Vogue employees

Genre: Documentary

Discovery: Been waiting for this one!  Finally.

Summary: This doc follows the two main people in Vogue, Anna (editor-in chief) and Grace (creative director), in the making of the biggest issue of Vogue, THE SEPTEMBER ISSUE (in the year 2007; which turned out to be the largest of all time)

First Glance: Director RJ Cutler took a very interesting tact when shooting this film.  Instead of shooting to create a story, he shot to see what story was there.  I find that infinitely more enjoyable.  So we, the viewer, are treated to this ‘inner sanctum’ look of just what it is like creating the mega issue of September.  Known as THE BIBLE.  He is very respectful of the people, being careful to not tread  into judgmental realm.  I LOVE the clothes!

Deeper Look: RJ explores exactly what goes into creating those phenomenal spreads (most of the ridiculously beautiful ones can be credited to Grace Coddington, who is my new fashion crush).  I so appreciated that.  It would be easy to act dismissive or mock such a subject.  Anna and Grace share an interesting relationship; one that spans the course of 20 years.  Seeing it play out on screen is engaging to watch, you feel like you are being let in on the biggest secret ever. Anna is cool efficiency perfectly foiled against Grace’s warm, creative spirit.  One of my favorite parts is when we get to see Anna previewing Oscar de la Renta’s next season, you get a sense of how truly influential she is in the business.  What she says with just a look speaks volumes.  No wonder Anna is so legendary.

What I Took Away from this Movie: The love of clothes & fashion DOES NOT make you shallow.

Final Glimpse: Fashion AND story beautifully blend in this doc. A “10″!