Cristóbal Balenciaga – Limited Series [2024] on Disney Plus

Cristóbal Balenciaga, the series, is not your typical marketing campaign. If anything, it adds to the mystery of the man behind the fashion house.

Starring Alberto San Juan, Adam Quintero and Thomas Coumans, the series almost complements AppleTV’s The New Look. Where the other one focuses on the rise and story of Dior, this series goes in depth in the thirty years that Balenciaga spent in Paris. What got him there, world war 2, all the way to his decision to close down the haute couture house.

In addition, there’s a glaring difference between both shows. While the Apple TV show goes very british/American (everyone speaks English), the Disney+ show tries to stay as Authentic as possible. In Spain, they speak Spanish. In France, the speak french, etc. You’ll definitely need subtitles.

However, without any spoilers, I am confident to say that behind every success is a troubled person. Balenciaga had his issues. From a closeted gay man during the 1940s to 1960s, to suddenly losing the lover of your life, I felt bad for the man. Yes, I am not a fan of his designs, but I can admire art when I see it.

On the other hand, both shows agree on something. Coco Channel is a questionable figure that made enemies everywhere she went.

Should You Watch It?

If you love fashion and you have patience for non-typical shows, it’s a great series about a designer that is often underestimated, and not celebrated enough.

Where Can I Watch It?

You can stream Cristóbal Balenciaga on Disney Plus.