DOCU: A GLIMPSE INTO THE RICH SOUL (AND HISTORY) OF PERFUME

In the new documentary Nose, one of the world's finest noses, François Demachy, is followed for two years by fi

In the new documentary Nose becomes one of the best noses in the world, François Demachy, followed for two years by filmmakers Arthur de Kersauson and Clément Beauvais. Demachy can call himself Perfumer-Créateur of Dior, has created all the fragrances of the French fashion house since 2006 and is responsible for, among other things, iconic perfumes such as Sauvage and Joy.Text: Fleur de Jong
Image: Dior In the documentary, the filmmakers attempt to unravel the mystique of being a so-called 'nose' and how Dior's exceptional fragrances are created. Dior itself describes the documentary as a 'smell good movie': an enchanting and compelling film that gives a glimpse into the rich history and soul of Dior perfumes. 

François travels to 14 countries in the documentary. From the lush gardens in the French town of Grasse, also known as the world capital of... perfume even to the Patchouli fields in Indonesia, the perfumer-creator travels all over the world in search of raw materials to create the fragrances of Dior. On this journey, Demachy visits the most remote and unique places where he comes into contact with local producers who try to preserve the precious craftsmanship and traditional expertise of their profession.

Similarity of music and perfume

At the same time, according to filmmaker Beauvais, this was the reason for the documentary Nose according to him there is a misunderstanding about what perfume actually is. He indicates that people think it is beauty and luxury, but that it is mainly a craft is. 

While scent is obviously difficult to convey on screen, according to an interview, the filmmakers worked hard to engage other senses in a way that could be complementary. Music played an important role in this, the filmmakers indicate that music and perfume have many similarities. According to them it is constructed more or less the same with top notes and a base. The documentary shows that François has stored around 2000 raw materials in his top secret laboratory in the French town of Grasse and 'tastes' as many as 150 scents per day. An average perfume uses an average of 30 ingredients. Sometimes much more, sometimes much less. Demachy's favorite perfume ingredient is Patchouli. Nose was previously shown at the Tribeca film festival, but can be seen on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play and Canal VOD since February 22More must-sees? Click  here