Scatter My Ashes at BERGDORF'S (2013)

Netflix - watched June, 2016


I enjoyed this documentary. While the title seems contrived, it originates from a satirical cartoon of ladies who lunch by Victoria Roberts which appeared in the April 30, 1990 issue of The New Yorker (magazine) with the caption, "I want my ashes scattered at Bergdorf's".  The writer and director used a current (appeared in 2011) 5 window project from planning to glorious completion as a frame for this documentary. Data within this frame is carefully edited to specific topics. I would not advise it, but fast forwarding is an option.  Within the documentary are historical photos, current videos along with interviews of designers whose creations appear at Bergdorf's, designers who wish their creations to appear at Bergdorf's, fashion reporters, Bergdorf corporate officers and staff along with a few Bergdorf clients. The cinematography highlights the fashion and NYC scenery along with a background musical score which, like Bergdorf employees and clients, is fashionable but not strident. While the subject of this documentary, a luxury department store sounds frivolous or not relevant, consider the store's place as a long-lived character of NYC.  This documentary is an excellent view into both centuries (store was founded in 1899) of fashion and fashion merchandising.  The documentary ends with a colorful view of the 5 window themed display "Carnival of the Animals" (brass, paper, wood, mosaic aquarium, polar garden party). In a busy, preoccupied, sophisticated NYC, it was fascinating to see people stop, stare and take photos.