Material Success (2012) User Reviews

I loved the way this doc was filmed.

[cwarman-338-569040 · 9/10 · 7 April 2012]

I felt like I was part of Bruno's (the main character) design team. The way the camera followed Bruno and Suzana was really unique and they totally ignored the fact that they were being filmed. The choosing of the models, the design and making of the clothes - these are things I would never be familiar with. I learned so much about the design industry and as a documentary, I mean, isn't that the whole idea? I wasn't sure how the film would end. It kept me on the edge of my seat and for a documentary to do that ....awesome!!I believe this is a from a new film maker. I certainly hope there's more to come from Jesse Mann.

I would wear leopard print booty shorts to watch this.

[moe-abbas · 9/10 · 28 April 2012]

Material Success demonstrates excellent craftsmanship on all fronts. Like the best of documentary filmmakers, Mann has a talent for capturing pregnant moments that reveal character without being intrusive or contrived. Whitehead's cinematography makes Bruno's candy-coloured world look good enough to eat. Bruno's child like enthusiasm and strong conviction is incredibly inspiring, proving that age doesn't mean a damn thing if you've got drive and determination. It really got me thinking about the popularity of subdued fashion trends and taste, even after the closing credits. And this is coming from someone whose fashion sense is limited to whatever wisdom GQ dishes out every month.

fabulous

[alia-383-232977 · 10/10 · 30 May 2012]

The director introduces you to a fascinating character, and his obsession, and then does a great job of letting the viewer decide for herself whether his obsession is noble or misguided.

There are small hints into the protagonist's personal life, and how that bleeds into his professional life, and vice versa, since there doesn't really seem to be a separation. You are able to get a firm understanding of the fashion industry from the protagonist's point of view.

Always entertaining with a fantastic original soundtrack by Mark Holmes.