Amélie Turns 25: The Story Behind Star Audrey Tautou’s Iconic Hairstyle
Her hairstyle and delicate face made an instant impression. But there was a time when the title character of Jean-Pierre Jeunet’s film, Amélie, was expected to sport a far more mundane ‘do. But when hairstylist John Nollet applied his vision to the coiffure of then-newcomer Audrey Tautou, he created a worldwide hair phenomenon. Speaking with Vanity Fair, the star stylist revisits Amélie Poulain’s memorable bob 25 years after its April 25, 2001 debut. The film’s director, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, had a ponytail in mind for the character of Amélie Poulain. Why did you suggest anything else?For me, Amélie couldn’t be this young woman who spends time in front of a mirror every morning. She’s focused on others, on life, on the little details of everyday life. I saw her as brunette, with short hair. The bob was an obvious choice. I fought for the idea, because I thought it would convey spontaneity, simplicity and freedom. In the end, Jean-Pierre Jeunet agreed, and the silhouette became one of the film’s visual signatures. What do these clean lines …
