| CURVE makes a statement, one that's needed to be heard for some time: Plus (or average and above) size fashion can look every bit as hip, shapely and attractive as the models sporting it. New York-based Greek siblings Constantine and Christina Valhouli invite the public into the not-so-well known world of plus-size fashion and dares the rest of the fashion industry to sit up and take notice!
CURVE's sixty minutes are well-paced and they don't miss a step. There is continuity in CURVE that doesn't exist in most films, much less documentaries. From struggling models to on-the-rise models to, of course, Emme the supermodel, and actress Kathy Najimy (Veronica's Closet, voice of King of the Hill's Peggy Hill), the film transitions well from viewpoint to viewpoint and highlights the issues plus-size models face - including the fact that most do not like the term "plus-size" (since the majority represent the average-sized woman). In addition, we're introduced to plus-fashion innovator Richard Metzger (who has designed for Oprah, Camryn Manheim, Sarah Ferguson, Tipper Gore and many others), designer Todd Oldham (Todd Oldham Jeans), Barney's window dresser Simon Doonan and editors from Mode (R.I.P.) and Maxim. CURVE is a tribute to the 25th anniversary of plus-size fashion that manifests in a frank and honest look at where it's been, where it's at and where it's going. |
One of the most endearing elements of CURVE is its honesty. The Valhouli's bring out the hope, excitement, friendship and even the desperate frustration of some of its interviewees. Fortunately, though, CURVE never takes itself too seriously; it is often hilarious. That and the pace should keep the film from losing viewer interest.
CURVE successfully debuted in New York City in February this year and will have additional screenings in Boston, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Houston, Austin, San Francisco and Chicago. Those dates will be announced in the near-future and ISAA will provide that information via our website.
CURVE addresses not only discrimination within the fashion industry, it highlights the essential premises and benefits of size acceptance and the problems caused by size discrimination. CURVE is a voice for everyone who has been discriminated against because of their weight. CURVE shows us that times (and fashion) are changing; since the average sized woman is a size 14 or higher, clothing designs need to reflect this and they need to be just as attractive as "straight size" clothes. As a matter of principle, CURVE tells the fashion industry and the world "we (plus-sized women) deserve respect."
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