In the world of cinema, fashion often plays an essential role in shaping characters and telling stories. One film that does this exceptionally well is ‘A Monster Calls.’ This 2016 fantasy drama uses distinctive styles to bring its characters to life, creating a visual spectacle that’s as captivating as the narrative itself. In this blog post, we’ll dive into a thorough character analysis and style breakdown, decoding the fierce fashion of ‘A Monster Calls.’
Introduction to ‘A Monster Calls’ and its Distinctive Style
‘A Monster Calls’ is a heart-wrenching tale of a young boy named Conor (played by Lewis MacDougall) who seeks the help of a tree-like monster (voiced by Liam Neeson) to cope with his mother’s illness. The film blends fantasy and reality in a way that’s both touching and terrifying, but it also presents an incredible aesthetic that’s rich in style and symbolism. From Conor’s casual outfits to Grandma’s (Sigourney Weaver) elegant attire, the characters’ wardrobes reflect their personalities and drive the narrative forward.
In terms of its overall aesthetic, ‘A Monster Calls’ combines earthy tones with bold patterns and textures, resulting in a unique style that’s both timeless and contemporary. Whether it’s the warm hues of Conor’s clothes or the cool shades of Grandma’s dresses, the film’s color palette creates a visual contrast that mirrors its emotional depth. Furthermore, the use of natural elements like wood and leaves in the costumes and set design enhances the film’s fantasy aspect and adds a touch of whimsy to its otherwise somber tone.
Character Analysis and Style Breakdown
Let’s delve deeper into the characters and their distinctive styles:
Lewis MacDougall as Conor
- Conor’s wardrobe is a mix of casual and comfortable pieces. His signature outfit is a green jacket, blue jeans, and a pair of worn-out sneakers.
- His clothes often feature natural colors like green, blue, and brown, reflecting his connection to nature and the monster.
- Despite his young age, Conor’s outfits are mature and somewhat old-fashioned, hinting at his forced growth due to his mother’s illness.
Sigourney Weaver as Grandma
- Grandma’s style can be described as classic and sophisticated. She’s often seen in tailored dresses and coats in neutral colors.
- Her outfits are accessorized with pearls and silk scarves, adding a touch of elegance and femininity to her stern persona.
- Despite her strict demeanor, Grandma’s clothes show a softer side, revealing her grief and love for her daughter.
Felicity Jones as Mum
- Mum’s style is casual and simple, with a focus on comfort. She’s usually seen in loose-fitting clothes in soft colors.
- Her outfits often feature floral patterns and lace details, mirroring her gentle and nurturing nature.
- Despite her illness, Mum’s clothes radiate warmth and positivity, reflecting her determination and spirit.
Toby Kebbell as Dad
- Dad’s style is casual and practical, with a preference for dark colors and minimal patterns.
- His outfits often consist of denim jeans and plain t-shirts, reflecting his laid-back personality and distant role in Conor’s life.
- Despite his limited screen time, Dad’s clothes hint at his internal struggle and guilt, revealing his complex emotions.
Ben Moor as Mr. Clark, James Melville as Harry, Oliver Steer as Sully
- Mr. Clark, Harry, and Sully’s styles are distinctive yet complementary, reflecting their different roles in Conor’s life.
- Mr. Clark’s outfits are professional and neat, mirroring his role as Conor’s teacher.
- Harry and Sully’s clothes are typical of their age, with a mix of trendy and youthful pieces.
- Despite their antagonistic behavior, their outfits reveal their insecurity and desire to fit in, adding depth to their characters.
Styling Tips for Different Occasions
Looking to add a touch of ‘A Monster Calls’ to your wardrobe? Here are some styling tips for different occasions:
- Casual Outings: Opt for comfortable pieces in earthy tones. A green jacket or a pair of blue jeans can help you channel Conor’s style.
- Formal Events: Choose classic pieces in neutral colors. A tailored dress or a silk scarf can make you look as elegant as Grandma.
- Day at Work: Go for professional and neat outfits. A crisp shirt or a pair of formal trousers can help you emulate Mr. Clark’s style.
- Night Out: Choose trendy and youthful pieces. A graphic tee or a pair of ripped jeans can help you capture Harry and Sully’s style.
Remember, the key to nailing these looks is to incorporate elements from the characters’ outfits into your own personal style.
Including ‘A Monster Calls’ Elements in Daily Outfits
Incorporating elements from ‘A Monster Calls’ into your daily outfits can be a fun and creative way to express your love for the film. Here’s how you can do it:
- Colors: Opt for clothes in earthy tones and neutral colors. These hues are a staple in the film’s aesthetic and can help you create a similar vibe.
- Patterns: Choose pieces with bold patterns and textures. These details can add a touch of whimsy to your outfits and make them stand out.
- Accessories: Go for accessories like pearls and silk scarves. These items can elevate your outfits and give them a sophisticated touch.
Remember, the goal is not to replicate the characters’ outfits, but to take inspiration from them and make them your own.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of ‘A Monster Calls’ on Fashion
‘A Monster Calls’ is more than just a film. It’s a visual feast that offers a unique blend of style and storytelling. The characters’ distinctive wardrobes not only enhance their personalities but also add depth to the narrative, making the film a standout in terms of its fashion. Whether it’s the earthy tones of Conor’s outfits or the classic elegance of Grandma’s dresses, the film’s aesthetic has left a lasting impact on fashion, inspiring viewers to incorporate elements from the film into their own style.
So, are you ready to decode the fierce fashion of ‘A Monster Calls’? Share your unique style tips in the comments and revisit us for the latest updates on fashion advice and exclusive deals!
