Watch Fashionista

Fashionista is a 2016 psychological thriller directed and co-written by Simon Rumley. The film revolves around a woman named April (Amanda Fuller), who runs a vintage clothing store with her husband Eric (Ethan Embry) in Austin, Texas. April is obsessed with fashion and her passion for clothes often leads her to make decisions that put her marriage at risk.

Eric is a recovering alcoholic and their relationship has been strained since his sobriety. April is often distant with Eric and preoccupied with her business. Their relationship further deteriorates when April discovers evidence that suggests Eric is cheating on her. April becomes increasingly paranoid and obsessed, leading her to spiral out of control.

Eric tries to support April but finds it difficult as she becomes increasingly erratic. April's obsession with fashion grows, and she starts buying new clothes, often stealing from her own store. She also becomes fixated on a handsome model named Randall (Eric Balfour) and begins to stalk him.

While the film's plot may sound like a typical thriller, it's actually a nuanced exploration of a complicated relationship. April and Eric's broken marriage forms the backbone of the story. Both Amanda Fuller and Ethan Embry give outstanding performances, capturing the pain of two individuals struggling to hold their relationship together.

The film's themes also explore addiction, fashion, and the perils of obsession. April's addiction to fashion is mirrored in Eric's previous addiction to alcohol. While Eric is trying to rebuild his life and make amends, April is risking everything to fulfill her own addiction. The film doesn't paint addiction in a glamorous light, rather it shows the ugly, destructive aspects of addiction.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the film is the way it portrays fashion. It's not just a minor plot point, it becomes a character in its own right. April's love for fashion is not just frivolous, it's an escape from the pain of her deteriorating marriage. The fashion is also linked to April's obsession and becomes a metaphor for the film's themes. Director Simon Rumley and cinematographer Milton Kam do an incredible job of capturing the beauty of fashion, while also revealing its darker side.

Another standout aspect of the film is the editing. The film is non-linear, with flashbacks and fantasy sequences woven throughout. The film is intentionally ambiguous, leaving the viewer unsure of what is real and what is imagined. The editing and sound design create a disorienting effect that keeps the viewer on edge, unsure of what will happen next.

In conclusion, Fashionista is a complex psychological thriller that deftly explores addiction, fashion, and the perils of obsession. Amanda Fuller and Ethan Embry give stunning performances that anchor the film's emotional core. The film's unconventional editing and sound design create a tense, disorienting atmosphere that keeps the viewer on edge throughout. If you're looking for a stylish, thought-provoking thriller, Fashionista is definitely worth checking out.

Fashionista is a 2018 mystery with a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4.