The Hairdresser's Husband

Le Mari de la coiffeuse

The Hairdresser's Husband (Le Mari de la coiffeuse) is a French drama film directed by Patrice Leconte and released in 1990. The film is a poignant exploration of love, obsession, and the fulfillment of childhood dreams, set against the backdrop of a small French town. It stars Jean Rochefort as Antoine, a man who has been fascinated with hairdressers since childhood and Anna Galiena as Mathilde, the hairdresser with whom he falls deeply in love and eventually marries.

Plot

The narrative of The Hairdresser's Husband is a reflective journey into Antoine's lifelong fascination with hairdressers, which began in his childhood. As a boy, Antoine found himself mesmerized by the sensual world of a local hairdressing salon - the sound of scissors, the smell of shampoo, and the sight of beautiful women having their hair done. This enchantment leads him to vow that he will one day marry a hairdresser.

Years later, Antoine, now in his middle age, encounters Mathilde, a beautiful and talented hairdresser. He is instantly captivated by her and begins to frequent her salon, eventually declaring his love and his childhood dream of marrying a hairdresser. Mathilde, touched by his sincerity and charm, reciprocates his feelings, and they marry, embarking on a deeply passionate and unconventional relationship.

Their marriage is a blissful journey of love and mutual obsession, with the hairdressing salon becoming the center of their shared world. Antoine spends his days in the salon, watching Mathilde work, and their evenings are filled with love and happiness. However, the film also delves into the complexities of their relationship, exploring themes of love, desire, and the pursuit of dreams, ultimately leading to a poignant and unexpected conclusion.

Themes

The Hairdresser's Husband explores several themes, including the pursuit of childhood dreams, the nature of obsession, and the complexities of love and marriage. The film is a celebration of the sensual pleasures of life and the beauty of fulfilling one's deepest desires. It also examines the idea of destiny and how it shapes our lives and relationships.

Reception

Upon its release, The Hairdresser's Husband received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, particularly those of Jean Rochefort and Anna Galiena. The film is celebrated for its unique storytelling, visual style, and the way it captures the essence of love and desire. It has since become a cult classic, admired for its poetic approach to storytelling and its exploration of love's enduring power.

Legacy

The film's impact is evident in its enduring popularity and the way it continues to resonate with audiences around the world. It is considered one of Patrice Leconte's masterpieces and a significant work in French cinema. The Hairdresser's Husband has inspired discussions on the nature of love and the importance of pursuing one's dreams, making it a timeless piece of cinematic art.