Madhur Bhandarkar’s 2008 film, Fashion, offers a compelling glimpse into the dazzling and often treacherous world of Indian high fashion. The film follows the fictional journey of Meghna Mathur, a small-town girl with big dreams, portrayed by former Miss World Priyanka Chopra. Meghna’s ambition to conquer the catwalks of Mumbai and beyond takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride through the industry’s highs and lows.
The narrative structure, divided into two distinct parts, effectively showcases Meghna’s transformation. We witness her evolution from a naive aspirant to a hardened supermodel, mirroring the common theme of innocence lost amidst the allure of fame and fortune. The film explores the seductive power of success and the potential for moral compromise when reality becomes blurred by the bright lights.
Priyanka Chopra delivers a captivating performance, embodying both the fresh-faced newcomer and the seasoned professional with equal conviction. Her portrayal of Meghna showcases the character’s determination to reach the pinnacle of the industry, employing both legitimate and questionable tactics along the way. Chopra’s natural beauty and commanding presence lend themselves perfectly to the role of a high-fashion model.
The film doesn’t shy away from addressing the industry’s obsession with unrealistic body standards. While rumors of Chopra undergoing a crash diet for the role circulated during production, her character ultimately presents a healthy image, defying the prevalent “waif” look often associated with runway models. This positive representation is notable, especially considering the presence of real-life models, some even from Elite, in the film’s supporting cast.
Fashion boasts a comprehensive portrayal of the fashion world, featuring a diverse cast of characters including agents, designers, magazine editors, and genuine and opportunistic friends. The film cleverly introduces these key players during a fashion show sequence, allowing the audience to quickly grasp the industry’s complex dynamics and rivalries. This scene effectively establishes the often hypocritical nature of relationships within this cutthroat environment.
While the film occasionally falls into predictable character tropes, such as the stereotypical gay designer and the philandering agency boss, it remains an engaging and visually stunning experience. The slick presentation, coupled with the mesmerizing movements of catwalk models, effectively captures the allure and excitement of the fashion world. The film’s self-censorship, typical of Bollywood productions, is evident in moments like the mosaic blurring of a wardrobe malfunction scene.
Beyond Chopra’s central performance, the supporting cast delivers strong performances. Mugdha Godse shines as Meghna’s loyal friend Janet, witnessing her friend’s ascent and subsequent downfall. Kangna Ranaut steals scenes as the established supermodel Shonali, her portrayal of arrogance and self-destruction serving as a cautionary tale for Meghna. Shonali’s character embodies the potential consequences of succumbing to the industry’s darker temptations, including drug and alcohol abuse.
Fashion provides a compelling, albeit fictionalized, introduction to the Indian fashion industry. With its visually appealing presentation, engaging storyline, and strong performances, the film offers a glimpse into both the glamorous and gritty aspects of this captivating world. The movie successfully portrays the intoxicating allure and potential pitfalls of a life dedicated to the pursuit of beauty and recognition within the fashion industry.
