Welcome aboard, cinephiles and fashion enthusiasts, as we embark on an enthralling expedition into the world of ‘Wildlife’ – a poignant drama film directed by Paul Dano that released in 2018. The movie has been celebrated not just for its emotive storytelling and compelling performances, but also for its remarkable aesthetic that beautifully blends the simplicity of the 1960s with the complexity of the characters’ personas. In our cinematic style guide, we dissect the fashion choices of each character, offering an exhaustive Character Analysis and Style Breakdown.
Character Analysis and Style Breakdown
The characters of ‘Wildlife’, much like their layered personalities, boast of distinct styles that echo their individuality. Each character’s wardrobe narrates a tale, be it the naive simplicity of Ed Oxenbould’s character Joe Brinson, or the evolving complexity of Carey Mulligan’s Jeanette Brinson. Let’s commence our character-by-character fashion breakdown, examining each ensemble that has left an indelible impression on the screen and beyond.
Overview of ‘Wildlife (2018)’ Aesthetic
Before we dissect individual styles, let’s appreciate the overall aesthetic of the movie. The film skillfully combines the small-town charm of the 1960s with the brewing unrest of its characters, crafting a visual spectacle that is as gripping as it is aesthetically pleasing.
- Small Town Charm: The film, set in a small town, reflects the simplicity and innocence of its setting through its costumes.
- Understated Elegance: The characters, particularly Joe and Jeanette Brinson, embody an understated elegance in their clothing, reflecting their socioeconomic status and aspirations.
- Evolving Complexity: As the characters evolve, so do their outfits, mirroring their changing mental states and circumstances.
Ed Oxenbould as Joe Brinson
Ed Oxenbould’s character, Joe Brinson, is the epitome of youthful simplicity. His attire, mostly consisting of simple, functional pieces, reflects his age, innocence, and the simplicity of his life.
- Plain Shirts: Joe is often seen in plain, cotton shirts, hinting at his humble background and understated style.
- Functional Trousers: His trousers are always practical, comfortable, and suitable for his everyday activities.
- Minimal Accessories: Joe’s accessory game is minimal, with a simple wristwatch being his constant companion.
Jake Gyllenhaal as Jerry Brinson
Jerry Brinson, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, portrays the quintessential man of the 1960s. His wardrobe is a mix of classic elements and practicality, reflecting his conventional personality and professional role.
- Classic Suits: Jerry is often seen in classic, tailored suits, reflecting his professional role.
- Checked Shirts: His preference for checked shirts adds a touch of charm to his personality.
- Practical Shoes: Jerry’s shoes, always practical and comfortable, speak volumes about his active lifestyle and professional pursuits.
Carey Mulligan as Jeanette Brinson
Carey Mulligan’s character, Jeanette Brinson, showcases a remarkable transformation through her outfits. Her clothing choices evolve from simple and modest to bold and daring, mirroring her internal transformation.
- Modest Dresses: Jeanette starts off with modest, pastel-colored dresses that reflect her subdued personality and societal expectations.
- Bold Prints: As Jeanette transforms, she embraces bold prints and vibrant colors that reflect her newfound boldness and rebellion.
- Statement Accessories: Jeanette’s accessories, particularly her jewelry, evolve from understated to statement-making, echoing her changing personality.
Minor Characters and their Impactful Style
The minor characters in ‘Wildlife’ also contribute to the film’s unique aesthetic. From Travis W Bruyer’s forester to Zoe Margaret Colletti’s Ruth-Ann, each character brings their distinctive style to the table.
- Travis W Bruyer as Forester: His rugged attire, complete with functional boots and layered clothing, reflects his occupation and lifestyle.
- Zoe Margaret Colletti as Ruth-Ann: Ruth-Ann’s outfits, consisting of simple dresses and minimal accessories, reflect her youth and innocence.
- Tom Huston Orr as Mr. Cartwright and Bill Camp as Warren Miller: Their polished suits and crisp shirts bring an air of sophistication and authority.
Styling Tips for Different Occasions
Taking cues from ‘Wildlife’, here are some styling tips for various occasions:
- Casual Gatherings: For a relaxed, casual look, take inspiration from Joe Brinson. Opt for plain shirts, functional trousers, and minimal accessories.
- Professional Events: For professional settings, consider Jerry Brinson’s style. Opt for classic suits, checked shirts, and practical shoes.
- Parties and Social Events: For parties and social gatherings, Jeanette Brinson’s transformational style can be a great source of inspiration. Embrace bold prints, vibrant colors, and statement accessories.
Emulating the ‘Wildlife (2018)’ Look: Outfits and Purchase Guide
Eager to replicate the ‘Wildlife’ aesthetic? Here’s a summary of outfits and tips on where to procure them:
- Joe Brinson: Look for plain, cotton shirts, and functional trousers in stores that cater to basic apparel.
- Jerry Brinson: Visit retailers that specialize in classic men’s fashion for tailored suits and checked shirts.
- Jeanette Brinson: Check out stores that offer a range of women’s clothing, from modest dresses to bold prints.
Incorporating ‘Wildlife (2018)’ Elements in Everyday Attires
Adding elements from ‘Wildlife’ into your everyday attires can be an exciting way to pay tribute to the film and its unique aesthetic. Here are some tips:
- Opt for Simplicity: Simplicity is a key element in the film’s aesthetic. Don’t hesitate to opt for simple, functional pieces.
- Experiment with Prints: The characters in the film, particularly Jeanette, experiment with prints and colors. Don’t shy away from doing the same.
- Accessorize Thoughtfully: The film showcases a range of accessories, from minimal to statement-making. Choose accessories that complement your outfit and personality.
Conclusion
The ‘Wildlife’ aesthetic is all about simplicity, elegance, and evolution, much like its characters. Emulating this style is about being authentic, thoughtful, and unafraid to evolve. So, go ahead, experiment with your style, and let your wardrobe tell your story.
Remember, fashion is not merely about following trends, but about expressing your individuality. So, don’t hesitate to mix and match, to experiment, and to break the norms. After all, as ‘Wildlife’ teaches us, our clothes are but a reflection of our personas.
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