A Look Inside Martin Margiela’s Documentary “In His Own Words”

The documentary shows an intimate portrait of the invisible designer.

One of the most influential designers Martin Margiela finally shares his story through his documentary Martin Margiela: In His Own Words.

Directed by Reiner Holzemer, the documentary takes viewers through Margiela’s life and career from his humble beginning as an assistant for Jean Paul Gaultier to eventually lead his own brand Maison Margiela in 1988. 

Even in his own documentary, Margiela’s face is still hidden, which is not uncommon for this invisible designer. Although the Belgian designer opted to remain anonymous for the entirety of his career and the film, it’s undeniable that Martin Margiela reinvented fashion with his radical avant-garde style and provocative collections. Now, the “Banksy of fashion” reveals his childhood memories alongside personal items and observations on the fashion world for the first time ever.

PHOTO Courtesy of Oscilloscope Laboratories

“Being allowed to portray this fascinating and famous man that remained in a lifelong anonymity made me happy and proud,”  Holzemer said in a press release. “His hands, his movements, the admiration he has for handcraft, and, most of all, the love he puts in all his creations make us feel his presence at any moment. I am sure that Martin Margiela will trigger a smile on the audience’s face throughout the screening of this documentary.”

The film features interviews with Margiela himself, Jean Paul Gaultier, and many other fashion experts. The 90-minute documentary premieres in both English and French, and it’s available in select digital cinemas starting August 14.

You can now watch the film here and view the trailer below!

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