Shane Conto
Social climbers…Italians…fashion…familial betrayal…murder, who is ready? You get all of that and more in Ridley Scott’s latest crime drama, House of Gucci. Gucci is an iconic brand in fashion but the drama behind their success might be even larger. Scott delivers his second big drama for the end of the year but this time there are a lot of flashier outfits and melodrama along the way. Patrizia Reggiani was just working at her dad’s business when she met Maurizio Gucci at a party…then their lives changed forever. This is a story packed full of twists and turns and large personalities. There is so much ground covered in this 157-minute film.
But does Scott do justice to this incredible story? There are certain aspects that standout amongst the rest. The actual direction of the film is top notch as always. Scott knows how to make a sleek film with high production value. The set pieces are elaborate and awe-inspiring, but the costumes are where the real quality lies. In a film about fashion moguls, the outfits better rise to the occasion, and they certainly do. The soundtrack chosen for the film is hit after hit that captures the time and breathes a sense of cool into the proceedings. It was so satisfying hearing “Heart of Glass” in the film after being used perfectly in the trailer. Harry Gregson-Williams scores is quality and Dariusz Wolski’s photography is unique in his way.
How about the actual story? The technical aspects certainly deliver but the storytelling leaves some to be desired. The pacing of the film is shaky with this hulking runtime. The opening scenes of the film feel stiff and awkward, taking a while to find its groove. Honestly it takes until the whole Gucci clan is introduced for the film to find its footing. Then for the next two-hours plus the audience is sent on a roller coaster of tone and twisting narrative. There are certain streaks that lag and fall flat but there are other scenes that are Scott at his best. So many backstabbing moments occur but the last is tense and biting (one of the highlights of the film).
But what about this A List cast? There is so much talent in this film but not everyone is on the same page. Lady Gaga is over-the-top to a fault showing that maybe she is not the strongest leading actor out there. Her choices are always to go biggest and sometimes her character feels like a farcical send-up of the actual woman. Adam Driver on the other hand is subtle and reserved while channeling awkwardness and conniving. Al Pacino plays his older role well and even delivers a few full blown “Pacino ” moments (I was waiting the whole film for them too). Jeremy Irons lends great presence in his short stint on screen. Salma Hayek and Jack Huston are solid supporting performers as well. But then there is Jared Leto. What was he even doing? He certainly thought he was in a farcical comedy, right? Overall, though…these Italian accents are most terrible (or Russian for some odd reason).
Is this beefy drama worth a trip to the theater? This is not the strongest of dramas this fall let alone just from Ridley Scott. This is messy and melodramatic at every turn. But if you enjoy drama and craziness, this film just might be up your alley. House of Gucci is the over-the-top trashy fun that just might be a fun watch…or it can easily feel like a chore.
