(1997 Feature Film)
Starring Georges du Fresne
Reviewed by Blase DiStefano
Near the beginning of the film Ma Vie en Rose, seven-year-old Ludovic (Georges du Fresne) has made a friend at school. When Ludovic is picked up from school by his grandmother, she asks, "Isn't he your boss's son?"
Ludovic nods.
"Are you pals?" she continues.
He answers yes, then adds, "We're going to marry when I'm not a boy."
Somewhat confused, Granny asks, "Not a boy?"
To Ludovic's affirmative reply, Granny says, "You have a lot to teach me."
And teach he does. Only problem is that, though Granny is willing to learn, Ludovic's parents are not. His mother does try at first but becomes overwhelmed with Ludovic's dressing in women's clothing; the father is an ignorant jerk. They reverse sentiments later in the film.
Ludovic tries to please his parents by playing sports, but he is simply way out of his league. He even tries to commit suicide by laying in the garage freezer with the lid closed. When he's found, the entire family is eager to please him. His father gives him one wish, anything he wants. Ludovic wants to wear a skirt to a neighbor's party. You'll have to see the film to see the results.
Though Ludovic often dresses up in women's clothing during the film, he is not a transvestite. Through it all, it is made very clear that he KNOWS he's supposed to be a girl. Doesn't matter if you're transgendered, gay, bisexual, straight, or anywhere in between—if you've ever felt different, outside the norm, you'll be able to identify with Ludovic's struggle to be who he is.
Golden Globe winner of 1997's Best Foreign Film, Ma Vie en Rose is beautifully acted and written, intricately laced with humor, and sensitively directed by Alain Berliner.
Interview With Director Alain
Berliner
["Ma Vie en Rose" played in February 1998
at Houston's Landmark Greenway Theatre.]
[This review ran in OutSmart magazine, February 1998.]
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