The House of Gucci by Sarah Gay Forden

As you all know, I have a rule to read the book before I see the movie.  In this case, I didn't know House of Gucci was a book first. 

Now, let's get a few things straight.  I am not a Lady Gaga fan.  Her music gets the channel changed.  I was not excited by Adam Driver as Ben/Kylo in Star Wars.  I do not even own one Gucci item.  But, I do remember the murder of Maurizio Gucci by his soon to be ex wife Patrizia Reggiani Gucci.  I might have gone to see just what a train wreck the movie might be.  However, just like Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett in Neon Angels/The Runaways, Lady Gaga blew me away as Patrizia.  She deserves an Oscar. 

Of course, after seeing the movie, I ordered the book!  The book goes way more into the history of both the Gucci family (for example, there are other brothers besides Aldo and Rodolfo, played by Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons respectively, both phenomenal!).  And Aldo had a ton of other kids besides Paolo (Jared Leto should earn at least a nomination for his performance!).  Perhaps the biggest omission was that Maurizio and Patrizia had a 2nd daughter who was left out.  I am guessing this was for simplicity and streamlining what is already at 2.5 hour movie (hit the bathroom BEFORE it starts...).  There is also a LOT of complicated math and tax law discussed, as Gucci falls under both American law and Italian law.  Patrizia is merely a supporting character in the book.

I have to say, in this case, the movie is better than the book for me!  But, if fashion or true crime is an interest for you, definitely check this out.

A reminder all opinions expressed on this blog and the video version of it are solely mine.