The Devil Wears Prada
Director: David Frankel
Rated: PG
Now screening

Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep) is editor of hot fashion magazine 'Runway'. With one snap of her manicured fingers, she can turn her assistants into quivering wrecks. Andy (Anne Hathaway) has just joined the staff to learn the ropes of the fashion world and how to handle mammoth egos, where the hissy fits of catwalk models are nothing compared to Miranda's venomous whiplash smile.

Movies and fashion have been perfect bedfellows since celluloid began. The fashion of the times have evolved through the cinema lens, and films about the fashion industry have proven good comedic fodder for decades. The drama of the next fashion show and the personalities that inhabit that world, all lend themselves beautifully to the storytelling medium. This film has those ingredients well mixed in a sparkling cocktail that never once loses its snap.

Meryl Streep oozes menace as a woman who is a master in the art of bitchery; her glacial manner and movement blend together to create a terrifying she-devil. Streep, being the consummate actress, remembers to inject some humanity to her role, making it more than a standard 'moustache twirling baddie'.

Anne Hathaway provides a sweet charm and contrast as the naive new assistant, trying in vain to get through Miranda's icy demeanour. The acting by the cast is exceptional, with everyone remaining true to their characters, and maintaining an even balance to their performances throughout.

The polished screenplay leaps straight into the action, breathlessly transporting the viewer into the fashion world. The shenanigans reflect the fight for supremacy and survival that happens in most big businesses, with no time to mourn its 'victims'. The film's pacing realistically shows the gradual development of each character, allowing the audience to feel they've been on a journey with them. The costumers clearly had a field day showing off some incredible fashion creations, reflecting the cutting edge fashion spectrum.

This is a very entertaining comedy filled with a cast that seem pleased to have a great script. Whilst some recent comedies lean towards vulgar humour, this one revels in the sophistication of its premise, providing much classy witticism.

Patrick Moore