Discover the Designer Bringing Julia Roberts’ Looks to Life in Luca Guadagnino’s After the Hunt
In Luca Guadagnino’s latest psychological thriller, “After the Hunt,” Julia Roberts shines as a Yale professor named Alma Imhoff. The film delves into complex themes as her character navigates the fallout when a student accuses another faculty member of sexual assault. Andrew Garfield and Ayo Edebiri portray the accused and the accuser, respectively, in this tense and thought-provoking movie.
Costume Design Brings Characters to Life
While the narrative unfolds with dramatic intensity, the wardrobe choices meticulously crafted by Giulia Piersanti add depth and complexity. Piersanti is known for enhancing both character development and thematic undercurrents through fashion. Her history with Guadagnino is well-established, having worked on previous projects like “Call Me by Your Name” and “Suspiria.”
Wardrobe Choices Reflecting Character Dynamics
Roberts’ character embraces a polished, academic style with luxury brands such as The Row and Celine, symbolizing her status and sophistication. Contrasting this, Ayo Edebiri’s character mirrors this style but at a more affordable price point, reflecting a desire for acceptance and admiration. Designer Grace Wales Bonner crafted these pieces to subtly indicate character motivations.
Giulia Piersanti: From Fashion to Film
Born in Rome, Piersanti moved to Paris before relocating to Los Angeles and New York. She studied fashion at Parsons Design School. Her career includes successful stints with Balenciaga, Lanvin, Alaïa, and now as head of knitwear at Celine. Piersanti’s work reflects a deep understanding of human behavior and emotional nuance.
The Creative Process
Inspired by films like “Another Woman,” Piersanti focused on creating an “upper-class chic” look with elements of “edge and rigidity.” This vision translated into blazers, trousers, and structured shoes across the cast, except for Roberts’ husband’s character, where inspiration came from cultural icons Philip Glass and David Lynch.
Bridging Fashion and Character Psychology
Piersanti believes fashion choices are integral, serving as a silent dialogue about character psychology. Her meticulous approach involves visual research that actors encounter during fittings, immersing them in their character’s world.
Impact of “After the Hunt”
Set against the backdrop of social justice and the #MeToo movement, “After the Hunt” explores power dynamics without delving into the realms of love or sexuality. It presents a landscape reflective of modern-day discourse, providing a compelling narrative interwoven with Piersanti’s visionary costume design.
