Too old to remain in the business, Frankie, a 26 year old model, has to deal with her disillusionment with the profession.
Her story is told in tandem, split between a narrative, set in a mental hospital, and flashbacks from earlier in her career. Before the fall, she lives the life of a busy model, being driven from photo shoot to photo shoot, a glorious mannequin upon which to display clothes.
Berthaud's fascinating depiction adopts an intimate documentary-like approach, blending together two distinct environments; the frenetic action of a photographer's studio, where Frankie is slowly bled dry, and the sedate and surreal ambience of the sanatorium where she attempts to rebuild her life.
Shot over three years, Berthaud persevered in the face of funding problems due to her loyalty to the then unknown Kruger as her leading lady, who herself was nearing the end of the her modelling career. The director's faith in her star paid off, as Kruger (Troy, National Treasure and Inglourious Basterds) delivers an inspired performance, testifying to her considerable range and imminent change in career path as an accomplished actress.
Forget the glamour; this is the dark heart of the fashion industry, bared for all to see