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Brigitte Bardot — a name that evokes glamour, controversy, and a dash of intrigue. In the recently premiered documentary “Bardot,” directed by Alain Berliner, we get an intimate look at her remarkable journey from being a global sex symbol to a passionate animal rights advocate.
Even after stepping away from the spotlight over fifty years ago, Bardot’s story continues to captivate, peeling back the layers of her life and the choices that shaped her identity.
Brigitte Bardot: A Star’s Early Days and Rebellion
Born in Paris in 1934 to a privileged family, Bardot’s childhood was anything but idyllic. With strict parental expectations looming over her, she felt stifled. Everything changed when she married filmmaker Roger Vadim at just 18. His 1956 film “And God Created Woman” launched Bardot into the limelight, marking the start of a new era of sexual freedom that defied the conservative norms of post-war France.
As Berliner puts it, “She helped Vadim become Vadim and he helped her become BB.” This symbiotic relationship not only elevated their careers but also changed the landscape of cinema.
Bardot’s transformation also earned her a place among the intellectual elite of her time.
She became a muse and a subject of significant literary discourse, including an essay by Simone de Beauvoir that celebrated her as a liberated woman. Yet, it wasn’t all glitz and glamour; the documentary reveals her ongoing struggle with balancing her public persona against her private desires—a theme that resonates throughout her life story.
The Complexities of Bardot’s Legacy
As we delve deeper into the documentary, Bardot, now 90, retains an enigmatic charm. Living at her La Madrague estate in Saint-Tropez, surrounded by animals, she channels her passion for animal rights with genuine dedication.
But the film also captures her more personal side, including her relationship with her only son, Nicolas-Jacques Charrier, who spent much of his upbringing with his father.
Interestingly, while Bardot has made significant contributions to cinema and culture, her views on modern feminism have stirred quite a debate. Recently, she voiced her support for actor Gérard Depardieu after his conviction for sexual assault, a position that starkly contrasts with contemporary feminist movements. Berliner highlights this tension, stating, “She insists very much that she likes men, and she’s not against them.” This reveals Bardot as a free thinker, navigating a complex identity that challenges the traditional narrative surrounding feminism.
Looking Forward: Bardot’s Enduring Influence
This documentary, enriched by insights from notable figures like Stella McCartney and Marina Abramović, stands as a testament to Bardot’s enduring impact on both the arts and societal conversations. With a career that boasts 47 films, numerous musical performances, and over 60 recorded songs, her influence is undeniable. So, what does the future hold for Bardot’s legacy? It invites us to reevaluate the intersection of stardom, personal choice, and societal expectations.
As the film wraps up, viewers are left to reflect on Bardot’s multifaceted identity and the complex legacy she has woven over the decades. Her life reminds us that stardom isn’t just about the spotlight; it’s also about the choices that shape who we are and the narratives we build around ourselves. In a world still grappling with issues of feminism, identity, and celebrity culture, Bardot’s story remains relevant and thought-provoking, urging us to reconsider what it truly means to be a liberated woman today.
