Rouge

Rouge (2015), directed by Bertrand Bonello, is a visually immersive biographical drama that delves into the life and artistic aura of the late French singer Desireless. Known for her iconic hit “Voyage, Voyage,” the film explores themes of identity, fame, and the ephemeral nature of stardom. With a poetic and avant-garde style, Bonello’s Rouge acts as a fictionalized, portrait gallery capturing the enigmatic character of Desireless through lyrical imagery and evocative mood rather than conventional narrative storytelling. The film interweaves dreamlike sequences and music to offer a meditative reflection on celebrity and artistic expression within the cultural backdrop of the 1980s and beyond.

Rouge has been met with a mixed yet largely appreciative critical reception, particularly applauded for its bold stylistic choices and atmospheric depth. On IMDb, the film holds a moderate rating of 6.6/10, reflecting divided opinions on its unconventional approach. Critics from Variety highlighted the movie as “an enigmatic and artful homage” praising Bonello's ability to create a hypnotic mood despite a fragmented narrative structure. However, some reviewers noted that the film's abstract and non-linear storytelling could be challenging, limiting its accessibility to a wider audience. The Hollywood Reporter commended the film’s visual aesthetic and sensuality, although it remarked that the script “rarely coalesces into a traditional biopic.” Metacritic scores for Rouge indicate mixed or average reviews, with several reviewers appreciating the lush cinematography but critiquing its pace and character development. Fans of experimental cinema and music-driven stories may find Rouge's poetic style rewarding, while those expecting a straightforward biography might find it disjointed. Overall, Rouge stands out as a visually striking and musically rich exploration of artistic identity, though it demands patience and openness to interpretation.