IRIS
'Iris' is an interesting eye to style and fashion due mainly to the subject, Iris Apfel.
2015 review number 193:
Iris: (Documentary): 68 out of 100: Those who are fashion enthusiasts will appreciate this documentary more than people who aren't interested in fashion labels and accessories. This is a definite case of how the subject matter of a documentary can influence your opinion. So you know where I stand, I'm not a fashion guru, never have been, never will. I'm one of those types who likes shopping for clothes when there's nothing better to do and if I can do it quickly, the better. At least Iris Apfel is an appealing subject matter for she exudes charm and her self-deprecating humour generates some laughs. Even if you know nothing about clothes, design and accessories, her stories are interesting, often told in a humorous way.
Iris Apfel is a fashion icon and is still acting as a consultant in her 90s. She married her husband Carl in 1948 and two years later, launched a textile firm which they ran until they retired in 1992. One of her major achievements was being responsible for the design restoration in the White House for nine presidents. Iris and Carl are interviewed along with other fashion and styling experts to allow the audience a glimpse of the life that has made her so successful.
The best moments feature the interactions between Iris and Carl. We witness the 100th birthday celebration of Carl and it's fantastic to see the love they still have for each other after 65+ years of marriage. Also revealing is how Iris elected not to have any children as she preferred her career to flourish. These personal moments entertained me more than the fashion segments so that's where I believe the subjective nature of rating documentaries comes into play. Obviously those who are interested in styling will gain a lot more satisfaction from this documentary.
Albert Maysles is the film's director and does a fine job in balancing the tales told of Iris' personal life and career. I would have preferred a bit more history of Iris' achievements so at 79 minutes, the documentary is a bit short of detail. There are several entertaining interviews with Iris as a guest and one featuring Martha Stewart immediately comes to mind.
It certainly helps when the documentary subject has as much charisma and personality as Iris has. After years of achievements, it's also refreshing to see that success hasn't gone to her head. She definitely isn't a boring interview participant.
See Iris if you're a styling guru although there's still enough in this documentary to keep viewers entertained even if fashion has no meaning to you. You might even learn a thing or two about fashion that you didn't know about already.
Starring Iris Apfel and Carl Apfel
(79 minutes)
Parental advice: Coarse language
Additional scene during or after credits: Yes, during the credits there are extra segments where Iris is honoured plus candid moments of her are shown. After the credits there is a brief conversation between Iris and Albert Maysles.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fo8jwJ_2l0c (Movie trailer)
(Reviewed on Wednesday 30th December, 2015)
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