Marion Cotillard plays the famous French singer Edith Piaf in this French biographical film, directed by Olivier Dahan.Her performance is remarkable and well deserving of her Academy Award. The story itself is one of a remarkable singer, who overcame great odds to succeed and was cursed throughout her life by tragedy.

The film covers most of Piaf's life but is not very linear, unusual for a biographical film. Piaf's early life is centered around her stay at a brothel, run by her grandmother. Her father,a circus contortionist eventually returns for her and takes her with him to perform on the street and soon discovers her remarkable singing voice and exploits her for all he can. Fast jump to her early 20's when she sings on the street to avoid prostitution until she is discovered by a impresario (Gerard Depardieu), who gives her her name (The Sparrow) but has gangster ties that eventually catches up with him. After becoming famous, she meets the love of her life, a French boxer, who can not leave his family. For all the joy she gave by singing, Piaf's life was a real tragedy.

The disc offers a French soundtrack with optional subtitles. However, there are no captions or subtitles during the songs, which lets many of the audience not knowing the true impact the lyrics have in the film, as a reflection of Piaf's life. Having so much music you would expect at least a 5.1 soundtrack and you get it in French 5.1. The cinematography is gorgeous and reflects the scene and moods throughout the film. Faded colors, shadows and sepia tones are prevelent in many scenes.

Only one extra is included on the disc, a seven minute feature about transforming Cotillard in Piaf through makeup. It would have been nice to have interviews or some additional information about the real Piaf.

"La Vie en Rose" is a remarkable work by Cotillard who demonstrates a rare ability to totally absorb the audience into her performance as Piaf. For people who don't know French or are not already familiar with Piaf's life, the film is confusing by its constant jumps to different parts of her life. It's a beautiful film and emotionally exhausting but deserved more extras. A great rental for those interested in Piaf but read a biography first.

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