As an industry, it would perhaps be fair to say that most of us are utterly clueless about what’s going on behind the scenes in the fashion world. We may have preconceived ideas of what goes on, but it’s likely that these are fairly off the mark and no doubt more than just a little stereotypical.
Therefore any efforts made by film or TV productions to offer us an insight into the minutiae of the fashion world are always going to be a little bit of an eye-opener, though clearly, some are going to be more realistic than others.
Movies that look to cover the ever-changing world of fashion, perhaps by delving into a past era, might look to add a certain authenticity that could come with fashion stock footage at times to avoid having to painstakingly recreate the mood and look of the time for 100% of a movie’s run-time.
A good film that explores the fashion world must be as entertaining and informative for those who have a vested interest or knowledge in the industry as it is to others who may not know or care too deeply about the market, and with this in mind, here are five movies that get below the surface and educate and entertain us.
Phantom Thread
This superb movie from accomplished director Paul Thomas Anderson tells the story of a fictional 1950s fashion designer, Reynolds Woodcock, and is a triumph on so many levels, which is perhaps less of a surprise when you consider those involved in the overall production and of course the casting of a certain multiple Oscar winner by the name of Daniel Day-Lewis as the lead.
Reynolds is clearly a very meticulous character and somewhat closed off from the rest of the world, and these aspects are expertly brought to life by Day-Lewis, who we then see thaw a little as his relationship with waitress Alma Elson, played with just the right amount of nuance by Vicky Krieps.
The film is painstakingly accurate in its depiction of the era, the fashions, and the dedication required by someone highly regarded in the field at that time. Unsurprisingly Daniel Day-Lewis received an Oscar nomination for his role, and the film was much loved by critics and audiences alike.
An added bonus comes in the form of the enchanting soundtrack created by Radiohead star Jonny Greenwood.
The Devil Wears Prada
This comic drama has something of a cult following and was a massive success at the box office. It tells the story of a young journalist who becomes a personal assistant to Miranda Priestly, who is effectively well-known Vogue editor Anna Wintour, and charts the travails she experiences in the cutthroat fashion industry.
Anne Hathaway plays the hapless Andrea Sachs, and Meryl Streep puts in an astounding performance as Priestly, while the likes of Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci are superb in supporting roles.
While there is a fair amount of stereotyping going on, the overall result is a film that is very engaging. The film was produced for a measly $40 million budget and raked in over $300 million.
Coco Before Chanel
This French film is more of a straightforward biopic but certainly one of great substance and includes a stellar performance from Amelie actress Audrey Tautou in the title role.
It charts the life of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel from her early years growing up in an orphanage and her struggles after her move to Paris and becoming a seamstress. It charts her ever-growing ambition, her commitment, and drive.
The film deals mostly with her life prior to her becoming a massive success and is very insightful.
House of Gucci
This Ridley Scott movie divided critics but is one that audiences appear to enjoy immensely and tells the story of the Gucci family in an uncompromising and exuberant fashion, which is perhaps unsurprising given the casting choices that were made.
It deals with power dynamics within the Gucci household and the relationship between Patrizia Reggiani and Maurizio Gucci, and the speedy collapse that occurs, which then threatens the success and longevity of the Gucci brand.
Lady Gaga as Patrizia is inspired as is Adam Driver’s take on Maurizio, and the supporting cast is basically a who’s who of awesomeness, which includes Al Pacino, Jeremy Irons, Jared Leto, Salma Hayek, and Jack Huston.
Much of the complaints made by critics revolve around the melodramatic nature of the film as well as the lengthy nature of the film. Its lack of return at the box office wasn’t helped by the fact that cinema attendance was impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
Blowup
This cult classic is a must-watch experience, ideally in a cinematic setting, and tells the story of a fashion photographer in hip 1960s London who has accidentally caught a murder taking place among the many photos he takes during a photo shoot.
It’s a stylized masterpiece from icon Michelangelo Antonioni and one that depicts the somewhat murky world of fashion while also having spectacular visuals that draw you in and now act as something of a documentary of the time.
David Hemmings is exceptional in the lead role, and there are great performances from Vanessa Redgrave, Sarah Miles, and Jane Birkin.
