Venturing into the world of fashion and film can often lead to an enchanting amalgamation of style and storytelling—a sartorial symphony, if you will. One such cinematic piece that has managed to enthrall both movie-goers and fashion enthusiasts alike is ‘The Ritual’ (2017). This seductive and spine-chilling spectacle not only captivated audiences with its unnerving narrative but also left a lasting impression with its distinctive aesthetic.
The storyline, which follows a group of college friends reuniting for a trip through the Scandinavian wilderness, is as much a psychological thriller as it is a showcase of rugged, outdoor style. It’s the nuanced details in the costumes and the way they complement the characters’ personalities that really draw us into their world. The environment, with its lush, yet foreboding forests, sets the stage for an aesthetic that is both organic and ominous.
So, let’s delve deeper, shall we? Let’s peel back the layers of earth-toned fabrics and sturdy boots to uncover what makes the characters’ styles so intriguing. We’ll explore the narrative threads woven into their garments and dissect the fashion elements that make ‘The Ritual’ a movie that resonates beyond its haunting tale.
Detailed character analysis: who is who?
Before we jump into the closet, let’s get acquainted with the cast of ‘The Ritual’. The film features an ensemble of characters, each with their own distinct personality and story arc. Understanding who they are is crucial to appreciating the subtleties of their style choices.
First off, we have Luke, played by Rafe Spall, a man burdened with guilt and struggling to come to terms with his past. Then there’s Phil, portrayed by Arsher Ali, whose quiet demeanor hides an undercurrent of complexity. Robert James-Collier brings Hutch to life, the unofficial leader whose practical nature is reflected in his gear. Sam Troughton’s Dom is the everyman, relatable and grounded, but not without his own insecurities. Paul Reid’s character, Robert, possesses an innocence that is tragically undermined by the events of the film. Matthew Needham as the Junkie represents a darker side of humanity, while Jacob James Beswick’s Fiend epitomizes the film’s menacing undertones.
Each character’s outfit is a reflection of their role in the story—a visual narrative that complements their psychological journey. In the following sections, we’ll dissect these sartorial choices to understand how they contribute to the film’s unique aesthetic.
Rafe Spall as Luke
- Rugged Outdoorism
- Layered Practicality
- Subdued Color Palette
Luke, played by Rafe Spall, is the embodiment of haunted introspection, and his wardrobe is a testament to this. The character’s style is a blend of practicality and neglect, indicative of a man whose focus has shifted far from the world of appearances.
His base layer often consists of simple, muted tones that reflect his withdrawn nature. A sturdy, practical jacket, likely waterproof and durable, is a mainstay in Luke’s outdoor ensemble. It’s not just a fashion statement but a necessity for survival against the elements. His boots are solid—chosen for their functionality over aesthetics. They are the kind that have seen many miles, a parallel to the character’s emotional journey.
Accessories are minimal; Luke isn’t one for embellishments. His backpack, however, is as much a part of his attire as any garment. It’s heavy, filled with the weight of provisions and, metaphorically, his guilt. It’s a constant in his attire, a reminder of the burden he carries.
Essential Elements of Luke’s Outfit:
- Heavy-duty Jacket
- Basic, Earthy T-shirts
- Functional Hiking Boots
- Minimalist Backpack
The key to Luke’s look is practicality. He’s not out to impress with his fashion sense. His clothing choices are dictated by necessity, mirroring his down-to-earth, troubled persona.
Arsher Ali as Phil
- Understated Elegance
- Comfort-Focused Layers
- Subtle Accessories
Phil, portrayed with a quiet strength by Arsher Ali, is a character who speaks volumes through his silence. His style is not flashy, but it does not lack attention to detail. Phil’s clothing choices often veer towards comfortable layers—pieces that suggest a man who values practicality but with an eye for quality.
Shirts in soft fabrics, perhaps with a hint of stretch for ease of movement, are staples in Phil’s wardrobe. His color palette tends to be more neutral, favoring greys and blues that speak to his calm and collected demeanor. His outerwear is functional, yet stylish—well-fitted but with enough room to accommodate the layers beneath.
Footwear for Phil is about comfort and durability. Boots that can handle the rugged terrain, yet wouldn’t look out of place in a casual city setting, are his go-to. His accessories are thoughtful, from the watch on his wrist to the practical but fashionable beanie that tops off his look.
Phil’s Outfit Components:
- Soft, Layerable Shirts
- Neutral-Toned Outerwear
- Versatile, Comfortable Boots
- Thoughtful Accessories
Phil’s style is an exercise in understated practicality, a reflection of his personality—unassuming, reliable, and always prepared.
Robert James-Collier as Hutch
- Leader’s Attire
- Functional Forethought
- Leadership Through Clothing
As the group’s default leader, Hutch, played with a compelling assertiveness by Robert James-Collier, exudes confidence through his sartorial choices. His outfits are a blend of functional forethought and a no-nonsense approach to outdoor fashion.
His clothing is perhaps the most ‘outdoorsy’ of the bunch, with a clear emphasis on gear that is up to the task. His layers are smart—thermal where necessary, breathable where it counts. The colors are earthy, blending seamlessly with the forest backdrop, yet each piece is chosen with a purpose.
The boots Hutch wears are robust, likely waterproof, and provide ample support—qualities befitting a man who takes his role seriously. His backpack is organized, everything in its place, much like his approach to the expedition and life.
Hutch’s Gear Essentials:
- Smart Thermal Layers
- Purposeful Outerwear
- Robust Hiking Boots
- Organized Backpack
In Hutch’s attire, we see the leader’s mindset—prepared, practical, and always thinking one step ahead.
Sam Troughton as Dom
- Everyday Man’s Gear
- Comfort-Driven Choices
- Relatable Style
Dom, the character brought to life by Sam Troughton, is the most relatable of the group. His style screams everyday man—there’s an accessibility to his fashion that resonates with many. Dom’s clothing is comfort-driven, a mix of what you’d don for a casual day out and what you’d need for a hike in the woods.
His layers are practical but not overly technical. You might find him in a fleece jacket that’s been through its paces or a well-worn pair of jeans that have molded to his form. His color choices are unassuming, sticking to what works rather than experimenting with trends.
Footwear for Dom is about what feels right. His boots aren’t the latest model, but they’re broken in and dependable. His accessories are few, perhaps a watch and the occasional hat, but nothing that would stand out. It’s a wardrobe that mirrors his character—unpretentious and grounded.
Key Aspects of Dom’s Look:
- Fleece Jackets and Casual Tops
- Worn-in Jeans or Comfortable Trousers
- Dependable Boots
- Minimal Accessories
Dom’s style is a testament to the everyman, comfortable and familiar, much like his demeanor throughout ‘The Ritual’.
Paul Reid as Robert
- Innocence Mirrored in Clothing
- Simplicity in Style
- Uncomplicated Aesthetic
The character of Robert, portrayed by Paul Reid, has an innocence that is echoed in his sartorial expression. His clothing is simple, uncomplicated, perhaps less ‘outdoor-ready’ than his companions, signaling a man who may be out of his depth.
His garments favor comfort without much technical thought. A soft sweater, a simple pair of slacks—items that don’t scream ‘adventurer’ but rather ‘casual day out.’ The colors are light, with pastels and brighter hues that stand out against the darker wardrobe of his peers.
Robert’s footwear is practical but lacks the ruggedness of the others. It’s as if he’s dressed for a light trek, underestimating the journey ahead. Accessories are minimal, if at all present, emphasizing the straightforward nature of his character.
Elements of Robert’s Wardrobe:
- Comfortable Sweaters
- Casual Slacks
- Practical, Non-Rugged Footwear
- Barely-there Accessories
Robert’s style is a portrayal of naivety and simplicity—a stark contrast to the dark, complex forest that serves as the film’s backdrop.
Matthew Needham as Junkie
- Darker Tones, Darker Themes
- Edge in Attire
- Symbolism Through Clothing
Portrayed by Matthew Needham, the Junkie is a character that represents the darker elements of the story. His attire is edgier, rough around the edges, much like his presence in the film. The clothing choices here speak to a troubled past, a character who’s had his fair share of struggles.
Darker tones dominate his wardrobe—blacks, deep greys, and the occasional splash of dark red. It’s a color scheme that complements the shadowy themes surrounding his character. His layers are mismatched, suggesting a piecemeal approach to dressing, indicative of a man for whom life is chaotic.
The footwear is worn, perhaps a pair of old boots with frayed laces or scuffed toes. Accessories, if present, might include a worn-out wristband or a chain—a touch of rebellion. His overall look is unruly, a mirror to his internal turmoil.
Junkie’s Style Components:
- Dark, Mismatched Layers
- Worn, Edgy Footwear
- Accessories with a Rebellious Touch
The Junkie’s style is an external reflection of an internal state of disarray—a visual cue to his troubled psyche.
Jacob James Beswick as Fiend
- Menacing Minimalism
- Harsh Aesthetic
- Visual Representation of Fear
Jacob James Beswick plays the Fiend, a manifestation of the film’s eerie undertones. His style is minimalist but menacing, a direct representation of the fear that he embodies. The clothing is less about fashion and more about creating an aura of dread.
The outfit is simple, perhaps a singular, dark garment that shrouds his form. It’s not meant to be detailed or intricate—it’s the absence of complexity that makes it frightening. The color, if it can be called that, is a void-like black, a visual black hole that absorbs light and hope.
There is no need for footwear or accessories in the traditional sense. The Fiend’s presence is his accessory, his costume an extension of the darkness he emanates. It’s the most stripped-down style in the film, but it’s this simplicity that makes it so impactful.
Fiend’s Costume Elements:
- Singular, Dark Garment
- Void-like Black Color
- Absence of Traditional Accessories
The Fiend’s style is the embodiment of minimalism with a purpose—to instill unease and amplify the ambiance of terror.
Styling Tips for Different Occasions: How to Dress like ‘The Ritual’ Characters
When it comes to incorporating elements of ‘The Ritual’ into your wardrobe, it’s important to understand the context. Each character’s style speaks to a particular set of traits that can be adapted for different occasions. Here are a few tips:
- For Outdoor Adventures: Take a page from Hutch’s book and prioritize functional layers that can handle the elements. Think thermal shirts, waterproof jackets, and robust boots. It’s about blending practicality with a leader’s confidence.
- For Casual Outings: Dom’s wardrobe is your inspiration here. Comfortable jeans, fleece jackets, and unassuming boots make for a relatable and easygoing look. It’s about being approachable and at ease.
- For Edgier Events: Channel the Junkie’s darker tones and edgy details for a look that’s a bit rebellious. Mix and match layers in black and grey, and don’t shy away from worn accessories that add character.
By understanding the characters and the occasions, you can create outfits that are both functional and expressive of your personality.
Get the Look: Summary of Outfits and Where to Buy Them
Now, let’s get down to brass tacks—where can you find the pieces to recreate the looks from ‘The Ritual’? Here’s a quick summary:
- Outdoor Retailers: For gear similar to what Hutch and Luke wear, outdoor retailers are your best bet. Look for brands that specialize in hiking and outdoor equipment.
- Casual Clothing Stores: Dom’s look can be replicated with items from casual clothing stores. Focus on comfort and durability.
- Thrift Stores: For the Junkie’s edgier look, thrift stores can be a gold mine. You’ll find unique pieces that have that lived-in feel.
- Specialty Boutiques: For more specific items, like the Fiend’s singular garment, you may need to visit specialty costume boutiques or shops that offer unique, artisanal pieces.
Whether you’re shopping online or hitting the streets, there’s a wealth of options out there to help you get the look.
Incorporating ‘The Ritual’ Elements in Daily Outfits
Integrating elements from ‘The Ritual’ into your everyday style doesn’t require a complete wardrobe overhaul. It’s about choosing key pieces that resonate with the characters and blending them with your personal aesthetic. Here are some ideas:
- Layering: Like the characters in the film, start with a solid foundation of basic layers and build up from there. It’s an easy way to add depth to your outfit.
- Color Palette: Adopt the earthy tones seen in the movie for a subtle nod to the film’s aesthetic. It’s a versatile palette that works for many occasions.
- Accessories: Choose functional accessories that serve a purpose beyond just looking good. A sturdy backpack or a reliable watch can elevate your outfit while keeping it practical.
The key to incorporating ‘The Ritual’ style into your daily outfits is subtlety. It’s the little nods to the characters’ styles that will make your look stand out.
Conclusion: Why ‘The Ritual’ Style Matters in the Fashion World
The fashion world is an ever-evolving landscape, one that thrives on the infusion of new ideas and perspectives. The style showcased in ‘The Ritual’ is significant because it brings a raw, authentic edge to the table. It’s a reminder that fashion isn’t just about haute couture and runway shows—it’s also about the functional, the practical, and the real.
The characters in ‘The Ritual’ are dressed for survival, for an unexpected journey through the heart of darkness, but their outfits tell a story beyond mere practicality. They are visual extensions of their personalities, of their struggles and strengths. This is what makes their style so compelling—it’s grounded in reality yet rich in narrative depth.
So, as you draw inspiration from the film and integrate elements of its aesthetic into your own wardrobe, remember that fashion is not just about what you wear, but how you wear it. It’s an expression of your story, your character, and your journey.
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