"Rouge" is an intriguing narrative that fuses elements of horror with the enchanting yet dark qualities of a gothic fairy tale. It tells the story of a solitary dress shop clerk whose world is turned upside down following the sudden death of her mother. This personal tragedy propels her into a haunting journey fueled by a desperate quest for eternal youth and unblemished beauty. Set against the backdrop of California, the film mirrors the societal obsession with perfection and delves deeply into the psychological implications of maintaining such idealized standards. The storyline provides a chilling exploration of how these societal pressures can lead individuals down perilous pathways.
The film goes beyond being just a superficial commentary on vanity; it critiques the insidious nature of the beauty industry, illustrating how it can resemble a cult-like environment where individuals sacrifice their authenticity in the pursuit of acceptance. The portrayal of the beauty industry's conventional standards shines a light on the hazards of internalizing its often ruthless expectations. As the protagonist navigates her increasingly treacherous surroundings, viewers are invited to reflect on the profound consequences of adhering to society's unforgiving gaze and the toll it can take on one's identity and spirit.
"Rouge" will be published in September by Simon & Schuster/Marysue Rucci Books and is the latest offering from the acclaimed author Mona Awad, known for her previous works such as "All’s Well," "13 Ways of Looking at a Fat Girl," and "Bunny." Each of Awad's novels has garnered critical acclaim, with "Bunny" being recognized as one of the best books of 2019 by notable outlets including Time, Vogue, and the New York Public Library. Audiences can expect another captivating and thought-provoking journey into the complexities of womanhood, societal expectations, and the haunting quest for self-acceptance that defines "Rouge."