The controversial life story of Serge Gainsbourg (1928-1991), the legendary French singer, songwriter, actor, director and troublemaker, is one of those that simply begged for a biopic.
Luckily it was put together by young director Joann Sfar, who based it on his own graphic novel.
The film documents Gainsbourg life from growing up as the son of Russian Jewish immigrants in Nazi-occupied Paris.
It follows him through many successful years in music industry in the 1960s to his death at the age of 62. His many women, including the famous actress Brigitte Bardot and his wife Jane Birkin, are centerpiece to understanding his character. Sfar’s film makes no attempt to be too original or art-house. The plot is quite linear, lacking some genuine excitement.
But whatever went wrong with the plot was compensated for by the choice of the lead actor. Frenchman Eric Elmosnino does not only look like Gainsbourg – see that iconic profile! – he is a good enough actor to pull off even this complex and versatile character.
Kyiv (19 Chervonoarmiyska, 234-7381, kievkino.com.ua). Through July 28. In French with simultaneous Ukrainian translation.
Zhovten (26 Konstyantynivska, 205-5951, www.zhovten-kino.kiev.ua). From July 22. In French with Ukrainian subtitles.
