The interviewer discusses the intersection of fashion and film with the creative director of Saint Laurent, focusing on the launch of Saint Laurent Productions. They touch upon the cinematic history of the fashion house, with Yves Saint Laurent himself having designed costumes for iconic films such as Belle de Jour and La Chamade, both starring Catherine Deneuve. The discussion also delves into the influence of film on the creative process and the decision to move beyond just costuming to directly producing films.
The creative director expresses his desire to see Saint Laurent collections captured by the best filmmakers, drawing inspiration from Yves Saint Laurent’s collaborations with renowned photographers like Helmut Newton. The conversation highlights the importance of working with top directors and realisateurs to elevate the brand’s image and create impactful visual content. The progression from short fashion film clips to full-length projects, such as Lux Aeterna, directed by Gaspar Noé and starring Béatrice Dalle and Charlotte Gainsbourg, reflects a commitment to quality storytelling.
The interview touches upon the reaction to Saint Laurent Productions within the film industry, with some French producers initially hesitant about a fashion house entering the realm of film production. However, the creative director sees this as an opportunity to shake up the industry and bring a fresh perspective to filmmaking. By challenging traditional norms and introducing new voices, Saint Laurent Productions aims to push boundaries and redefine the rules of film production.
The creative director reflects on the impact of film on his personal journey at Saint Laurent, citing the selection of Lux Aeterna for the Cannes Film Festival as a career highlight. Growing up watching controversial films late at night with his mother, he has always been drawn to edgy, boundary-pushing cinema. This experience of showcasing a film at Cannes, a festival known for its celebration of innovative storytelling, holds deep personal significance and represents a culmination of his creative vision for Saint Laurent.
The interview also touches on the support and encouragement from Catherine Deneuve, a close friend of the creative director, who sees the venture into film production as a bold and necessary step for the industry. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration and mentorship in navigating new creative endeavors, as well as the role of established figures in championing innovation and diversity within the film world. By forging new partnerships and pushing boundaries, Saint Laurent Productions seeks to carve out a unique space for fashion-driven storytelling in the world of cinema.
In conclusion, the conversation between the interviewer and the creative director of Saint Laurent illuminates the power of film to inspire and drive creative processes within the fashion industry. The launch of Saint Laurent Productions signals a new chapter for the brand, bridging the worlds of fashion and film to create visually striking and emotionally resonant storytelling experiences. By aligning with top filmmakers and pushing boundaries, Saint Laurent aims to make a bold and distinctive mark on the film industry, challenging traditional norms and exploring new frontiers of storytelling.
