Style Storyteller

This weekend I finally got around to seeing The Rum Diary with Johnny Depp, based on the novel by Hunter S. Thompson.  Intrigued by the trailer, and after reading some mixed reviews, I wasn't sure what to expect.  Although I found the storyline a bit slow at times, I left amazed by the stupendous job on the costume design.  


The 60's era tailored suits donned by Johnny Depp and Aaron Eckhart and the stunning dresses worn by Amber Heard, are the handywork of Colleen Atwood.  The three time Academy Award winning costume designer has designed costumes for many other of my favorite films, including Edward Scissorhands, Big Fish, Alice in Wonderland, The Tourist.

Watching this movie I was reminded of a quotation I posted a while back by Ralph Lauren, "Every time I design clothes, I'm making a movie".  I think the story in The Rum Diary was driven by the visual cues from the disheveled yet dapper Depp to the impeccably dressed Eckhart.  Clearly, Atwood hit the nail on the head by effectively creating story lines for the characters through their personal style, and by creating an atmosphere that I really enjoyed.  I also liked the array of vintage sunglasses that appeared in the film, and I have to give credit to the set designer for a great job as well.  Overall, The Rum Diary is definitely worth seeing.

Above images via Film District © 2011

Most recently, Atwood has taken on the task of wardrobing the fantasy world in Snow White & the Huntsman starring Kristen Stewart, Charlize Theron, and Chris Hemsworth.  The costumes in the trailer look fantastic and prove that Atwood is one of the great style storytellers - take a look...