Mildred Pierce

The HBO mini-series 'Mildred Pierce' tells the story of a divorced single mom who tries to cope with the Great Depression, her divorce and a narcissistic elder daughter Veda. In five long episodes she opens a restaurant, falls in love with a questionable man and most of all; she tries to salvage the already-strained relationship with Veda.

The story of Mildred Pierce is based on a 1941 novel by James M. Cain and the script stays very true to the book. It's a gorgeous, sad yet beautiful story about love, pride, ambition and undying loyalty. I love that the story is (close to) realistic... you can really relate to Mildred and her struggles (without necessarilly agreeing with her.) No 'Bold and the Beautiful' hystericals; "Brooke I am you father.... and stephbrother... and I slept with your daughter...and sister. While my son was secretly having a affair with you mother... ánd uncle..." (ok I'm drifting off... but you get my point.) A beautiful story, very pleasant to follow because of the relaxed pace over those five episodes. Needles to say... The fashion is GORGEOUS.

I'll tell you a bit about the fashion and give a little introduction about the series (with complementary screenshots): The story starts in 1931 with the Depression just settling in, so money is scarce. Which is portrayed perfectly when you see Mildred wearing the same dress quite a lot in the first episodes.... there is no money and the clothes are sobre and functional. With her needing to find a job as a single mom, she tries keep Veda satisfied (in the end unsuccesfully) by finding a propper job... which after a considerate amount of let-downs leads to a job as a waitress. Of course this isn't nearly good enough for young Veda, so Mildred feels pressured to come up with a different plan; opening her own restaurant... the waitress job being for 'experience' (at first an excuse to keep Veda content for the time being.)

Since she is a magnificent cook, the restaurant (called Mildred's) becomes a great succes in no time. Leading to a increasing income for Mildred and her family. The fashion both Mildred and Veda are seen in 'grows' with the growing succes in the restaurant buissiness; they start wearing more different outfits..... and more luxurious ones I might add. Up to the most decadent looks in the end. Véry véry pleasant to watch, while enjoying the actual story. I can really recommend watching this series for the story ánd the fashion. Just look at these screenshots! (L)