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THE LITTLE STORY OF LIKE A VIRGIN
At some point in our lives, we all come across a work of art. A record, a film, a band, a painting, a book, an author. It can be instantaneous, it can take time, it can be dazzling or insidious.
Every season, I make a point of naming my models in such a way that those who acquire them see it as an additional sign of attachment.
When I thought of naming my little vintage boot the Like a Virgin, it was above all to pay tribute to Madonna and her superb eponymous album. Her luminous pop, subtly produced by Nile Rodgers, who was already at the helm of Bowie's Let's Dance and played guitar on two tracks on the latest Daft Punk album, was a wonderful discovery for my little eardrums.
Madonna's album was a sweet treat, a breath of fresh air at a time when I'd acquired my first Walkman, which I never let go of. Not even to take a shower, because I had one that went under water, the famous Sony Sports.
What is most incredible is that this song, composed by a couple, had been rejected by numerous artists before Madonna decided to make it a worldwide hit. Like a Virgin was not just a song, it was also a video clip, amazing stage appearances and perfectly controlled communication that made this young woman the most famous in the world.
But behind Like a Virgin lies another attachment, just as important in my eyes, that of Reservoir Dogs. In 1992 no one knew who Quentin Tarantino was and no one saw coming this little independent tornado that arrived without warning on our screens. It's inspired by Asian cinema, a lot of it, but it's intelligently recycled and there's an incredible energy about it, despite some sequences of violence that I could have done without.
Even so, in the opening scene of this film there's a whole dialogue about Like a Virgin and everyone has their theory. And it's the first time I've witnessed such a brilliantly chatty introduction to a film on a subject as surprising as the content of a pop song.
So I wanted to pay a double tribute to two artists who have always surprised me.