What Is ‘Emily in Paris’ if Not Emily, in Paris?

As a long-time connoisseur of romantic comedies and a frequent traveler to the enchanting city of Paris, I must say that Emily in Paris has been an enjoyable addition to my viewing list. However, the lackluster chemistry between Emily and Gabriel leaves me yearning for more sparks, reminiscent of the magic that Audrey Hepburn and George Peppard shared on screen in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.


SPOILER ALERT: This story contains plot details for Season 4, Part 2 of “Emily in Paris.”

Good-bye, Emily in Paris. Hello, Emily in…Rome?

Viewers of the bubbly sitcom “Emily in Paris” might have been taken aback by the ending of Season 4, Part 2, which was released on Netflix this week. In the final episode, Emily (Lily Collins), directed by her boss Sylvie Grateau (Philippine LeRoy-Beaulieu), is tasked with launching a new branch in Rome. There, not only does a tantalizing new client, but also a tempting new love interest, Marcello Muratori (Eugenio Franceschini), are ready to meet her.

As a dedicated fan of this charming series, I can’t help but reflect on the intriguing turn of events for our beloved Emily. She’s been promoted to run her own office in the city of love, Romeo and Juliet’s playground – quite the leap! Yet, it’s bittersweet, for she’s bidding adieu to her cherished friends, her captivating love interest Gabriel (Lucas Bravo), and, in a way, her audience. This plot twist hints at a potential geographical shift for “Emily in Paris” in Season 5, suggesting that the show might temporarily relocate.

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I found myself engrossed in an animated conversation with two fellow film fanatics – Deputy Film Editor Pat Saperstein and Social Media Editor Rachel Seo. We delved into the latest twists of the show, that mind-blowing finale, and even dared to question whether the series, often deemed overhyped by many, truly deserves its accolades.

La couture

Rachel Seo: Let’s discuss the costumes. To be honest, Emily’s outfits aren’t really my cup of tea (I might have been supposed to appreciate them?). However, I find her fashion journey throughout the series intriguing because it seems to reflect the show’s change in tone. Once I completed Season 4, I re-watched a part of Season 1 and was struck by how much more realistic it seemed.

In the early episodes of “Sex and the City,” as portrayed by Star, New York appeared grittier and more authentic. However, each episode featured an overwhelming number of outfits, most of which I dislike, but a few are truly stunning. As the season progressed, some of her outfits seemed to veer towards matronly, inappropriate for someone her age, yet still desirable. If Emily’s newsboy caps start trending due to costume choices, I will hold the designers responsible for this fashion faux pas.

Furthermore, isn’t it just fabulous to mention the Jean Patou jacket with a red leather belt? And let me add that the Barbara Bui pantsuit in cobalt blue she wore at Giverny was simply stunning too.

What Is ‘Emily in Paris’ if Not Emily, in Paris?

Rachel: The jacket she wore was stunning, and I adored the multi-colored puffer coat she donned during Camille’s family’s Christmas visit. In terms of her outfits from Italy, I felt they effectively captured her essence as a white American millennial woman from a bustling urban center. There seemed to be an undercurrent of Taylor Swift blended with Madewell vibes in the choice to dress her in a blue-and-white polka dot frilly top.

Comparing “Gossip Girl” to “Sex and the City,” both shows have an interesting transformation over time. As they continue, they seem to morph into caricatures of themselves. In the first season, Emily’s fashion choices like colorful berets with plaid shirts, and her scenes with Gabriel such as that passionate kiss in the club while babysitting a pop star, had a tangible sexual energy and chemistry. However, by Season 4, Emily is seen in oversized striped dresses reminiscent of hypnotic spiral patterns; she splits up with Gabriel because he refuses to pamper her on a ski slope; and she relocates to Italy, essentially because of an attractive man – why not.

The evolution of Gabriel and Emily’s relationship

John: Initially, I was wondering if Gabriel altered his hairstyle in the current season? He was more appealing before, it seems. This back-and-forth relationship with him has been frustrating for four seasons now. However, I must give credit to Gabriel for his honest and scathing speech where he pointed out that Emily had been behaving badly. Unfortunately, her stubborn refusal to even grasp the rudiments of French made her susceptible to being deceived by Sylvie’s wicked stepdaughter, who twisted his words to mean “I don’t want to see you anymore.” The truth is, as long as Emily remains in the picture, we’ll be trapped in this seemingly sexless and consistently unsatisfying romance. There’s no friend zone for you, Emily and Gabriel!

Rachel: It appears his hair has grown longer – I shared the same curiosity. Is he intentionally going for a more rugged style? Meanwhile, Emily seems to have had years of French tutoring, but only started speaking full sentences in this season. I guess better late than never?

What Is ‘Emily in Paris’ if Not Emily, in Paris?

Emily and Marcello

Pat: Isn’t it intriguing that his family’s cashmere business exudes a serene opulence (perhaps similar to Loro Piana?) and hosts meals at a communal table in the heart of a village? Why not, right? However, Marcello isn’t like Gabriel, and I sense Emily finds the idea of fantastic gelato more alluring than the notion of much excitement from Marcello. Do you find him appealing?

Rachel: There’s something lacking about him; it’s as if he’s overly perfect. A captivating, good-looking heir to a luxury cashmere business who prefers the simple life in an Italian town and prioritizes his family? I think he should have a touch of villainy instead.

Emily moves to Rome

Rachel: Is it likely that she’ll really relocate to Rome? I don’t believe she will move to Rome. However, if the series gets renewed for Season 5, they might dedicate a few episodes to Rome. Gabriel is expected to arrive and confess his feelings for Emily, who will initially turn him down. Later, there seems to be a significant conversation between her and Marcello that changes her perspective. This realization leads her to return home.

Pat: I agree with you, it’s obvious Gabriel isn’t leaving, so my question is: how often can Instagram be changed? Anyway, she might seem a bit crazy to abandon that lovely Rome apartment and return to sharing quarters with Mindy in a cramped attic.

Is “Emily in Paris” actually good?

Rachel: I believe we’ve touched upon the topic of whether the show is considered “quality” or not, and what constitutes as “quality.” Could you share your thoughts on this matter?

John: Perhaps it’s not exactly like “Succession,” but it’s certainly not trying to imitate it. Creating a show that flows smoothly and looks great isn’t simple, and this one definitely succeeds in that regard. While costume designer Marilyn Fitoussi deserves much credit for her work, the writing is also quite witty and the visuals are top-notch. Yes, there are layers upon layers of meaning in the dialogue, similar to a triple-creme brie. However, the dialogues, despite their absurdity, have a spark that reminds me of classic romantic comedies. Ultimately, this show’s brilliance lies not only in its fashion but also in how it blends an American Audrey Hepburn-like character with French actors in a way that feels unique and enjoyable – though it’s more like a light, airy dessert than a heavy meal.

Rachel: I think there’s a lot of effort and expertise behind it that might not be apparent, yet it seems effortless. It may not be exceptional in my opinion, but considering it’s primarily for amusement, maybe we could say it’s good in its own right?

Pat: Totally agree. See you next time in Rome, Rachel!

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2024-09-14 02:17