The September Issue

09.27.09

I was on vacation last weekend in NYC and had a fashion-filled time. In addition to window-shopping Fifth Avenue and actually shopping in Soho, my husband and I went to see the "The September Issue." I highly recommmend it.

This documentary by R.J. Cutler provides unprecedented access into the world of Vogue magazine with a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the September 2007 issue which was - and still is - the largest issue ever produced.

The film has two focuses: cracking the icy exterior of the magazine's editor, Anna Wintour, and exploring the complex relationship between Wintour and Vogue's Creative Director, Grace Coddington.

Although the film certainly proves that Wintour's personality is far from warm and cuddly, getting a first-hand look at the immense pressure that she is under and the size of her workload makes her personality more understandable. Also, Wintour granted Cutler and his film crew access to her home(s) where the viewer gets an intimate look at her relationship with her daughter. These familial ties also make the "ice-woman" seem more human.

What I enjoyed the most about the film was following the two decade-long relationship between Creative Director Grace Coddington and Anna Wintour. The general public has no knowledge of Coddington because the focus is always on Wintour (or the extremely flamboyant Andre Leon Talley) but Coddington is the one who creates the incredible images that Wintour so deftly curates. They are alternately at odds with one another and appreciative of one another. They engage in a passive-aggressive dance throughout the creation of an issue - seemingly unable to see eye-to-eye. However, the final product is always a beautiful amalgamation of their distinctly different - but complementary - talents.   

I recommend this documentary to fashionistas and the fashion-illiterate alike. I loved gaining a new perspective on the world that I love while my husband appreciated the beautiful women, the unique personalities and the unintended humor. A fun and informative film all-around!

Check it out downtown at the AMC Loews Theater on the Boston Commons at 175 Tremont St. before its too late!

                                                                                   --Marisa

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