The Secret of the Unicorn

Octave Parango, once known as a concept creator and editor of the renowned magazine 99 francs, has taken a surprising turn in his career. He is now working as a model scout in Moscow, a role that suits his cynical and hedonistic personality. His days are filled with pleasures derived from the company of young Russian models, and he often travels in the luxury of private jets owned by wealthy oligarch friends. This lifestyle epitomizes indulgence and superficial glamor, aligning with Parango's often cynical outlook on society and beauty.

Despite the apparent glamour, Parango's life takes a dramatic shift when he receives a sudden and unexpected assignment. The world's leading cosmetics company, The Ideal, contacts him with a pressing and high-stakes task. The company finds itself embroiled in a major media scandal, threatening its reputation and future. As part of his mission, Parango is given just seven days to find a new muse—a face that will symbolize and restore The Ideal's image.

The task is far from simple. Parango must venture into the depths of post-Communist Russia, a region marked by rapid change, economic upheaval, and cultural complexity. Traveling across various cities and encountering different strata of Russian society presents both challenges and opportunities. His journey involves navigating a landscape often at odds with Western standards of beauty and consumerism, forcing him to think critically about superficial appearances and deeper societal issues.

Throughout his quest, Parango is directed by Valentine Winfield, a formidable visual director with a strict and commanding presence. Her authority and vision influence his approach to finding the perfect muse. Under her guidance, Parango's travels become not just a physical movement across Russia but also an exploration of identity, beauty, and the societal norms that define these concepts. The pressure of the ticking clock adds urgency to his endeavors, intensifying the story’s tension.

Ultimately, "L'Idéal" paints a vivid portrait of modern allure and the quest for perfection in a rapidly changing world. It explores themes of superficiality, cultural upheaval, and the power of image in contemporary society. Parango’s journey underscores the boundaries between appearance and reality, prompting reflection on what truly constitutes beauty and value in a commercialized, media-driven age.