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Who Are You, Polly Maggoo? ?

### **Who Are You, Polly Maggoo? A Satirical Dive into the Fashion World**

In the realm of 1960s cinema, few films capture the essence of satire and cultural critique as masterfully as *Who Are You, Polly Maggoo?* Directed by the visionary William Klein, this 1966 French film is a biting mockumentary that strips bare the excesses of the fashion world and the superficiality of celebrity culture. With its sharp wit, stunning visuals, and a star turn from Dorothy McGowan, *Polly Maggoo* remains a timeless commentary on the allure and absurdity of the fashion industry.

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#### **A Mockumentary Ahead of Its Time**

*Polly Maggoo* follows the story of Polly, an American supermodel who has become the obsession of Paris. A French television crew trails her, attempting to uncover the “real” Polly behind the glamour. But as the film unfolds, the line between reality and fiction blurs, revealing a world where image reigns supreme. Klein’s film is a clever send-up of the media’s fascination with celebrities and the artificial constructs of beauty.

The film’s satirical tone is both elegant and scathing, poking fun at the pretensions of high fashion while also highlighting the vulnerabilities of its protagonists. Polly, played by Dorothy McGowan, is portrayed as both a symbol of glamour and a fragile figure trapped in a world of make-believe. Her “dreams of Prince Charming” contrast sharply with the lecherous advances of the men around her, creating a poignant yet humorous critique of gender dynamics.

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#### **William Klein: A Visionary Behind the Lens**

William Klein, a renowned photographer before turning to film, brings his unique visual style to *Polly Maggoo*. His background in photography is evident in the film’s striking black-and-white cinematography, which captures the chic of 1960s Paris while also exposing its underlying absurdity. Klein’s use of wide-angle lenses and dynamic compositions adds a sense of energy and surrealism, making the film a visual feast.

Klein’s approach to storytelling is equally bold. By blending documentary-style interviews with fictional narrative, he creates a sense of immediacy and intimacy. The film feels both spontaneous and meticulously crafted, a testament to Klein’s innovative direction.

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#### **A French New Wave Classic**

*Who Are You, Polly Maggoo?* is often associated with the French New Wave, a movement that revolutionized cinema in the 1960s. Like other New Wave films, it challenges traditional narrative structures and embraces experimentation. Klein’s irreverent style and willingness to defy conventions make *Polly Maggoo* a standout in the genre.

The film’s influence extends beyond its cinematic style. It was decades ahead of its time in satirizing the cult of celebrity and the commodification of beauty. Long before reality TV and social media, *Polly Maggoo* exposed the artificiality of fame and the ways in which media shapes public perception.

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#### **Legacy and Cultural Impact**

Today, *Who Are You, Polly Maggoo?* is celebrated as a cult classic and a landmark of fashion cinema. Its sharp wit and prescient commentary continue to resonate, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in fashion, film, or cultural history. The Criterion Collection has recognized the film’s importance, ensuring its availability to new generations of cinephiles.

Klein’s film also holds a special place in the history of fashion. As a former *Vogue* photographer, Klein brought an insider’s perspective to the industry, revealing both its allure and its flaws. His critique of the fashion world is both loving and lacerating, capturing the tension between artistry and commercialism.

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#### **Conclusion: A Timeless Portrait of Glamour and Excess**

*Who Are You, Polly Maggoo?* is more than just a film about fashion—it’s a meditation on identity, media, and the human condition. With its brilliant black-and-white cinematography, razor-sharp dialogue, and unforgettable performances, it remains a cinematic treasure. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a film buff, or simply someone who appreciates a good satire, *Polly Maggoo* is a journey worth taking.

So, who is Polly Maggoo? She’s a supermodel, a muse, a fantasy—and a reflection of our own fascination with the illusions of beauty and fame.