A new binge-worthy Netflix show is all we can ask for these days to compliment takeout from our favorite local restaurants and those tie-dye sweat suits we bought 6 months ago. Well, ask and we shall receive. A few weeks ago Netflix came out with the perfect 10-episode show to satisfy what we were looking for: Emily in Paris.
As a fashion gal, and more importantly, as someone who left her heart in Paris, this was a highly anticipated show for me. Because of those same points, I wanted to give a review on the show. I was honestly pretty shocked at the negative feedback the show received from other sources. Was the show exaggerated? Yes. Did it poke fun at literally every stereotype of Parisians and likewise of Americans in Paris? Yes. But, isn't all television exaggerated versions of reality? Sure, it wasn't the most elaborate plot but Emily in Paris was definitely the lighthearted cutesy show we all needed to head into sweater weather season.
My Review on All Things Emily In Paris:
Should you watch? Yes! If you once were a Sex in the City fan (since the show it is by the same creator) or tuned into Gossip Girl each week, you'll enjoy Emily In Paris.
The portrayal of Paris: Accurate. Many parts of Paris, both touristy and non, are shown in the show. The series gave a pretty well-rounded view of Paris and the beauty of the city.
The portrayal of Parisian life: ACCURATE. Most apartment buildings don't have elevators (or they're so little you will never step foot in one). Yes, the 5th floor is actually the 6th. Un (not une) pan au chocolat is life changing AND you will find a local café that you'll always resort back to for weekday meals (hot chef named Gabriel not always included).
The portrayal of the people you'll meet: Inaccurate. Stereotypical? Yes. Maybe it would be more realistic if this was supposed to take place 40 years ago. When I lived in Paris I had nothing but amazing experiences with the Parisians. My morning Boulangerie cashier was an angel and people who didn't speak English tried their hardest to try to help find someone that did. Younger people in Paris also were excited to have someone to practice their English to. Now on the contrary, and as Luke says, going to Paris and not trying to speak a lick of French IS INDEED arrogant. But most people understand since it is indeed a large city. Especially if you can't understand because they're speaking so fast.
The portrayal of working in fashion: 50/50. Like any industry you have a mix of people. I never worked during my time in Paris. However, the fashion industry is cutthroat and like any industry, you'll meet an array of people. Emily's office dynamic seemed a tad exaggerated, maybe Devil Wears Prada inspired. However, fashion is very well respected and treated as an art form in Paris.
Overall: Overall, Emily in Paris is a cute modern day "American girl in Paris" tale. It is over-exaggerated at points but what television show isn't? I wouldn't use it as a guide to Paris or the people you'll meet by any means. However, for someone who longs to travel back to (in my opinion) the most beautiful city in the world, it was nostalgic to see the places I once frequented and hear soundtracks of French music just to remind me that a time of traveling again lies ahead.
More importantly, should you visit Paris? 10/10 yes! And I hope if this show doesn't do anything else, it inspires you to visit the city (post pandemic). The culture is unrivaled to this day.
A bientôt!
