MOVIE: GAINSBOURG

This new drama from debut French director Joann Sfar is a colourful, heart-felt and at times psychedelic tale of the legendary French songwriter, Serge Gainsbourg.  Born Lucien Ginsburg in Paris, to Russian Jewish parents, he was forced to flee Nazi occupied France in his early teens. The fear of accepting his identity never quiet escapes him, and manifests itself as, ‘The Mug’, a giant caricature of himself that follows Serge around, echoing the anti-Semitic grotesquerie of Nazi propaganda. In adulthood, after becoming disillusioned as a painter, Gainsbourg turns his attention to music and thus the legend begins. The film’s highlights are the exceptional performances by the two main stars. Eric Elmosnino’s performance as Gainsbourg is pitch perfect, encapsulating the singers natural charisma and coolness, while the late Lucy Gordon’s portrayal of the gorgeous Jane Birkin, is effortless and beautiful. Perfect for lovers of music, love and all things French. (LR)