Almost two decades ago, fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld and actor Daniel Brühl connected in an unlikely encounter that has come full circle in an inspiring new television series. Brühl, who was once photographed by Lagerfeld as an up-and-coming actor, now portrays the legendary designer in 'Becoming Karl Lagerfeld,' recently released on Disney+. During his visit to Madrid, Brühl shared nostalgic memories, displaying old images captured from their brief but meaningful interaction.
Their first and only meeting occurred after the premiere of 'Good Bye, Lenin!' in 2003, when a fashion magazine commissioned Lagerfeld to photograph rising actors, including Brühl. Even with their seemingly contrasting personalities, there was an immediate understanding between the two. While others posed confidently, young Brühl retreated, feeling out of place. Lagerfeld recognized his discomfort and offered to take solo photographs of the introspective actor. This moment planted the seeds for Brühl's current project.
In 'Becoming Karl Lagerfeld,' viewers are invited into Lagerfeld's life beginning in 1972 when he was a relatively unknown designer living with his mother in Paris. Struggling with numerous personal and professional challenges, including rivalry with Yves Saint Laurent and his love affair with dandy Jacques de Bascher, Lagerfeld's journey to becoming a fashion icon is vividly portrayed. Théâtre Pellerin and Arnaud Valois star as de Bascher and Saint Laurent, respectively, capturing the complicated dynamics of their relationships and the vibrant Parisian social scene.
As the series unfolds, Brühl emphasizes discovering Lagerfeld's vulnerabilities and complexities, depicting him as a man of many contradictions. One vivid element is Lagerfeld's journey from obscurity to becoming the emperor of the Chanel empire, enriched by unique relationships with influential women like Paloma Picasso and Marlene Dietrich. Lagerfeld's outsider status in Paris compelled him to fabricate stories about his heritage to succeed, showing his relentless ambition and hunger for acceptance.
Brühl's portrayal extends beyond Lagerfeld's fashion persona, delving into his private struggles and longing for emotional connections. The actor has immersed himself deeply in Lagerfeld's world, reading biographies, meeting his friends, and absorbing endless interviews to stay true to the character. He speaks fluent French with a German accent, reflecting Lagerfeld's linguistic prowess and sophisticated personality.
Brühl's personal narrative ties in with the role, as both share experiences of feeling like outsiders despite their achievements. With strong ties to the creative world, Brühl also maintains connections in the fashion industry, mirroring Lagerfeld's relentless work ethic. Both men, despite their public personas, valued intellectual pursuits; Lagerfeld famously read multiple books simultaneously, bridging the gap between high fashion and literature.
The series not only recounts Lagerfeld's rise to fame but also touches on his deep relationships, particularly with Jacques de Bascher. Despite the colorful, glamorous life, darker themes of manipulation and toxicity in their love story are explored. Bascher's tragic death during the AIDS epidemic and Lagerfeld's steadfast companionship during his final days add emotional depth to the series.
Brühl hints at the possibility of a second season, wanting to delve further into Lagerfeld's later years. The narrative's richness offers abundant material for continued storytelling, exploring how Lagerfeld's persona evolved post-Bascher and his unyielding dedication to fashion and creation. This portrayal brings Lagerfeld back to the intimate essence first captured in those solo portraits, promising an enthralling watch for audiences.
- Daniel Brühl's portrayal of Karl Lagerfeld explores the nuances behind the public figure known for his sharp tongue and impeccable style. The series shows a man of many layers, humanizing the fashion icon by highlighting his insecurities and romantic self, often concealed by his powerful exterior.
- Brühl's career, boosted by hits like 'Good Bye, Lenin!' and 'Inglourious Basterds,' demonstrates his ability to capture complex characters. His preparation for this role involved rigorous studies and personal connections to the late designer's life and work.
- As someone deeply embedded in the fashion industry, Brühl draws parallels between his disciplined routine and that of Lagerfeld. His long-standing friendship with Alessandro Sartori, Zegna's creative director, exemplifies his appreciation and understanding of the relentless demands of fashion.
- Beyond fashion, Brühl stands as a concerned European citizen, advocating for active participation in the democratic process, particularly in light of rising populist sentiments. His personal experiences growing up in post-Berlin Wall Europe reflect his passion for a united and progressive continent.
- Brühl's endeavors in filmmaking and his commitment to roles that require in-depth personal connection continue to shape his career, establishing him as a versatile and dedicated artist across different mediums.
