MOVIE REVIEW
Happy Clothes: A Film About Patricia Field (DVD)
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023, 2024
Runtime: 1h 41m
Director(s): Michael Selditch
Where To Watch: available October 15, 2024; pre-order your copy here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Patricia Field's foray into fashion, defined by her rule-defying stylistic choices, becomes the focal point of HAPPY CLOTHES: A FILM ABOUT PATRICIA FIELD. This documentary, directed by Michael Selditch, guides us through Field's journey as she leaves her indelible mark on the wardrobes of some of the most influential television shows and movies. This narrative stitches her transformative impact from the streets of New York to the glossy screens of Hollywood and beyond.

The documentary starts by tracing Field's roots from her innovative boutique in downtown New York to her illustrious shift into the cinematic world of costume design. As a queer, first-generation Greek-American, Field shattered the glass ceilings of a traditionally rigid fashion scene, creating a sanctuary for the avant-garde and marginalized alike. Her boutique, bursting with eclectic styles and fearless creativity, wasn't just a store; it was a revolution dressed in fabric, challenging the status quo and setting trends that resonated beyond its walls.

The film leaves a palpable longing for a deeper dive into how Field’s groundbreaking early choices helped to lay the groundwork for her celebrated career. Though rich with potential, these early chapters are breezed over, leaving viewers craving a more thorough exploration of her trailblazing path. This isn’t a knock on the documentary, just a desire for more of it! 

The real magic happens when the film explores Field's unique fashion philosophy. Merging high and low fashion with a distinctive flair, Field's designs—from a transformative moment in Manhattan to the bold ensembles seen on-screen—become statements of personal expression. These iconic looks do more than define characters; they inspire viewers, influencing real-world fashion trends and individual styles.

Interviews with key figures such as Sarah Jessica Parker and Kim Cattrall add valuable depth, shedding light on Field's meticulous design process and ability to understand and translate characters through costume. One omission I would have liked to have seen a deeper dive into was the coverage of Field's role as a trailblazer for queer women in an unwelcoming era. The documentary briefly touches on her pioneering efforts, but I just wanted more of this incredible story along with her earlier days! HAPPY CLOTHES excels in depicting Field's relentless innovation and commitment to pushing fashion's boundaries. Her forward-thinking approach to inclusivity and style resonates as an inspiration and a beacon for future designers.

In summary, HAPPY CLOTHES offers a compelling overview of Patricia Field’s illustrious career. It leaves an appetite for a deeper, more detailed exploration of her life and work. Known for her fiery red hair and bold, unconventional fashion statements, Field's narrative is one of radical defiance and creativity—a story we need a sequel documentary on! As the documentary wraps up, we're left inspired but also somewhat unfulfilled, eager to discover more about the extraordinary life of this influential stylist. I’m ready to see HAPPIER CLOTHES: THE SECOND ACT. Hopefully, Selditch will see this and get to work!

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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