Ah, the allure of cinema and the sartorial elegance it often showcases! When it comes to ‘The Ruthless’ (original title: ‘Lo spietato’), a 2019 Italian crime drama that’s as sleek as it is gritty, there’s a particular fashion code embedded within its frames that’s as deliberate as the plot’s twists and turns. Directed by Renato De Maria, the film not only lures us with its storyline but also with a wardrobe that’s as character-specific as the dialogues they deliver. So, my dear fashionistas and cinephiles, let’s buckle up for a sartorial ride through the underbelly of Milan’s crime scene.
The film is set in the 1980s, a decade notable for its distinctive style—think bold colors, exaggerated silhouettes, and a mix of textures that could either create a visual symphony or a chaotic cacophony. But ‘The Ruthless’ manages to capture the essence of the era without falling into the trap of fashion clichés. It’s a testament to the meticulous efforts of the costume department, which, through subtle nuances, paints a portrait of each character’s personality and their social standing.
From Santo Russo’s calculated charm to Mariangela’s deceptive innocence, each outfit is a narrative in itself, a visual cue to the character’s psyche. As we dissect the wardrobe of ‘The Ruthless,’ we delve deeper into the minds behind the designs and how they parallel the story’s progression. This isn’t just about looking good; it’s about the clothes speaking volumes without uttering a single word.
Character Analysis and Style Breakdown: An Overview
Before we plunge into the threads and fabrics, let’s sketch a brief character analysis. This will help us understand the intricate relationship between the characters’ personas and their fashion choices – a key element that adds depth to their on-screen presence.
- Santo Russo, played by the dashing Riccardo Scamarcio, is a cold and calculated criminal with a hunger for power. His clothing is a mix of sharp suits and casual, yet intimidating, ensembles that command respect and fear. A key element of his outfit is the leather jacket—a symbol of the rebel, the outsider. It’s a piece that tells the audience he’s not one to conform or be easily subdued.
- Mariangela, portrayed by the talented Sara Serraiocco, is a complex character. She’s the doting wife with a stoic demeanor, but beneath the surface, there’s an undercurrent of ambition and resolve. Her style is subtle, with muted colors and simple silhouettes that reflect her role in Santo’s shadow, all while hinting at her own aspirations.
- Salvatore ‘Slim’ Mammone, played by Alessio Praticí², and Mario Barbieri, brought to life by Alessandro Tedeschi, are both integral to the narrative’s fabric. Slim’s attire speaks to his volatile nature, while Mario’s look is that of the quintessential subordinate – nondescript, blending into the background, yet undeniably present.
By understanding these characters, we can appreciate how their clothing is more than just a costume. It’s a carefully constructed faí§ade, a layer of armor, and a silent communicator of their inner workings.
The Aesthetic of ‘The Ruthless (2019)’
The movie’s aesthetic is undeniably tied to its fashion sense. The 1980s backdrop provides a vibrant palette from which the costume designers draw inspiration. Yet, they do so with a disciplined hand, ensuring that each outfit complements the film’s tone and setting. The result is a visual treat that feels authentic to the time period, without drowning in nostalgia.
Riccardo Scamarcio as Santo Russo
- The Leather Jacket: Santo’s leather jacket is more than an article of clothing; it’s a statement. A dark, fitted piece that exudes a menacing charm. It’s the kind of jacket that doesn’t scream for attention but gets it nonetheless.
- The Suits: When the leather is off, Santo slips into suits that are as sharp as his business acumen. Tailored to perfection, they usually come in dark hues, a reflection of his serious and unforgiving nature. These are not suits worn for comfort; they’re worn as a second skin, a part of his identity.
- The Casual Edge: Even when dressed down, Santo’s style remains calculated. Dark jeans, fitted shirts, and leather boots—all carefully chosen to maintain his imposing aura even in his most relaxed moments.
To dress like Santo Russo is to dress with purpose. It’s to choose each piece with the precision of a strategist, knowing that in his world, an outfit is never just an outfit—it’s a tactical decision.
Sara Serraiocco as Mariangela
Mariangela, the woman behind (and beside) the man, displays a wardrobe that’s both understated and telling. Her clothing is often conservative, with traditional cuts and a palette that doesn’t stray far from beiges, whites, and blacks—colors that don’t challenge the dominance of her husband’s attire.
- The Feminine Mystique: Her dresses and skirts are classic, almost timeless in their simplicity. This is a deliberate choice, showcasing her character’s need to maintain a faí§ade of the supportive wife while hiding her own ambitions and strength.
- Accessories: Mariangela’s accessories are minimal—small earrings, perhaps a simple necklace—nothing that would draw the eye away from her husband. Yet there is a meticulousness to her selection, a hint of refinement that suggests depth beyond what she’s allowed to show.
- The Outerwear: Even her outerwear, often a coat or a simple cardigan, is chosen for its functionality rather than fashion. It’s this restraint that makes her character so intriguing and her style so poignant.
To emulate Mariangela’s look is to embrace subtlety, to understand the power of restraint in fashion. It’s to dress not just with the body, but with the mind—each piece a carefully considered part of the whole.
Alessio Praticí² as Salvatore ‘Slim’ Mammone
Salvatore ‘Slim’ Mammone is a character that thrives on unpredictability, and his wardrobe is a sartorial extension of his volatile nature. He isn’t the man in the perfectly tailored suit; he’s the man who looks like he could either shake your hand or pull a knife on you—maybe even both.
- The Rough Edges: His clothing has a rugged charm to it, often consisting of leather jackets that have seen better days, shirts that are unbuttoned one notch too many, and trousers that suggest he’s ready for a fight at any moment.
- The Layered Look: Slim often layers his clothing, perhaps a vest over a shirt, or a shirt under a jacket. It’s a practical choice, but it also adds a certain depth to his character, as if he’s shrouded in layers not just physically but emotionally as well.
- Footwear: His boots are worn, the leather scuffed, a testament to the miles he’s walked and the battles he’s fought. They’re practical, durable—boots that aren’t for showing off, but for getting things done.
Dressing like Slim isn’t about dressing well; it’s about dressing authentically. It’s about wearing clothes that tell a story of the streets, of a life lived hard and fast, with every thread a testament to survival.
Alessandro Tedeschi as Mario Barbieri
Mario Barbieri, as portrayed by Alessandro Tedeschi, is a character often in the background, yet his presence is unmistakable. His style is subdued, functional—the kind of clothing that doesn’t make a statement so much as it whispers it.
- The Subdued Palette: Mario’s clothes favor a muted palette—grays, browns, and dark blues. These are colors that blend into the scenery, that don’t draw attention, which is precisely the point.
- The Fit: His suits are not the tailored masterpieces we see on Santo; they fit well enough but lack the sharpness, the cutting edge. It’s a visual cue to his status within the hierarchy, his role as the supporter, not the star.
- The Practicality: Everything about Mario’s attire screams practicality. His shoes are polished but not flashy, his shirts are clean but not extravagant. It’s a wardrobe built for a man whose job is to be present but not prominent.
To take inspiration from Mario Barbieri’s style is to understand the power of blending in, to dress in a way that’s respectful, reliable, and unassuming. It’s about knowing that sometimes, the best fashion statement is the one that’s felt, not seen.
Marie-Ange Casta as Annabelle
Annabelle, played by the stunning Marie-Ange Casta, is a breath of fresh air in the testosterone-fueled world of ‘The Ruthless.’ Her style is a delightful mix of sophistication and sensuality—a careful balance that speaks to her character’s allure and complexity.
- The Chic Sophistication: Annabelle’s outfits are chic, with a touch of high-fashion sensibility. Think elegant blouses, well-fitted pants, and dresses that hug the right curves. It’s a modern twist on the classic femme fatale look.
- The Colors: Unlike Mariangela, Annabelle isn’t afraid to play with colors. While she does don darker shades, she also isn’t shy about wearing bolder hues—a splash of red here, a touch of emerald there. It’s a wardrobe that says she’s confident, she’s in control, and she knows it.
- The Accessories: Her accessories are carefully chosen, from statement earrings to the occasional bold necklace. Each piece is selected not just for its aesthetic appeal but for its ability to enhance her overall ensemble.
Channeling Annabelle’s style is about embracing one’s femininity and wielding it with grace and power. It’s about choosing pieces that are as bold as they are beautiful, that make a statement without saying a word.
Sara Cardinaletti as Suor Giuseppina
Suor Giuseppina, portrayed by Sara Cardinaletti, is a character whose style is dictated by her vocation. Yet, even within the confines of her religious attire, there’s a subtle grace to her wardrobe choices that reflect her character’s solemnity and compassion.
- The Habit: The traditional nun’s habit she dons is a garment of deep symbolism, its simplicity a reflection of her life’s dedication. It’s not about fashion, but the habit itself has an austere beauty to it.
- The Details: Even the smallest details—the rosary she carries, the modest shoes, the way her veil is draped—speak volumes about her character’s commitment and the life she’s chosen.
- The Contrast: In a film filled with characters dressed to impress, Suor Giuseppina’s attire stands out for its lack of adornment. It’s a powerful contrast that enhances the narrative and deepens our understanding of her role.
Emulating Suor Giuseppina’s look isn’t about replicating her religious garments, but rather capturing the essence of her character’s humility and grace. It’s about choosing clothing that speaks to a sense of purpose, of a life lived with intention and devotion.
Angelo Libri as Pantaleone Russo
Pantaleone Russo, played by Angelo Libri, is a character whose wardrobe is as commanding as his presence. His attire is carefully curated, reflecting his status and the respect he commands within the narrative.
- The Authority: Pantaleone’s suits are a visual representation of his authority. They are traditional, impeccably tailored, and worn with an air of dignity that’s hard to ignore.
- The Classic Touch: His style is classic Italian—a nod to the timeless elegance of men who understand the power of a good suit. It’s about quality over quantity, about investing in pieces that endure rather than following fleeting trends.
- The Accessories: From his watch to his cufflinks, every accessory Pantaleone chooses is a testament to his taste and his attention to detail. These are not just adornments; they are statements of his character’s values and standing.
To capture the essence of Pantaleone Russo’s style is to dress with an awareness of the legacy one carries. It’s about choosing clothes that not only look good but also resonate with an air of respectability and time-honored tradition.
Styling Tips for Different Occasions Inspired by ‘The Ruthless’
Drawing inspiration from ‘The Ruthless,’ we can craft looks that are tailored to different occasions. Whether it’s a business meeting, a casual outing, or a formal event, there’s a touch of Santo, Mariangela, or Annabelle in outfits that can be adapted for the modern wardrobe.
Summary of Outfits and Where to Buy Them
For those looking to bring a piece of ‘The Ruthless’ into their closets, here’s a summary of the key outfits and tips on where to find similar pieces:
- Leather Jackets: High-quality leather jackets like Santo’s can be found at stores like AllSaints or online at retailers such as Farfetch.
- Tailored Suits: For sharp suits that echo Santo’s and Pantaleone’s, check out brands like Armani, Hugo Boss, or for a more budget-friendly option, SuitSupply.
- Simple Elegance: To mirror Mariangela’s understated style, look for timeless pieces at brands like COS or Everlane.
- Chic and Bold: Annabelle’s chic wardrobe can be emulated with items from luxury designers found at Nordstrom or more accessible brands like Zara for a similar flair.
- Rugged and Ready: For Slim’s rugged look, explore the selections at Levi’s for durable jeans and boots, or Diesel for that rough-edged aesthetic.
Remember to mix and match, to personalize, and to infuse your own character into each look. Fashion, after all, is about expressing who you are.
How to Incorporate ‘The Ruthless’ Fashion into Your Everyday Style
Incorporating the fashion of ‘The Ruthless’ into your everyday style isn’t about imitation; it’s about interpretation. Take the essence of the characters’ wardrobes—their confidence, their restraint, their boldness—and make it your own. Whether it’s a leather jacket that adds an edge to your weekend wear or a well-tailored suit that elevates your work attire, let the film inspire you to make choices that resonate with your personal narrative.
Conclusion
As we reach the conclusion of our sartorial journey through ‘The Ruthless,’ it’s clear that fashion in film is more than mere decoration. It’s a language that communicates character and story, a visual dialogue that we, as viewers and fashion enthusiasts, can engage with and be inspired by. Whether you’re drawn to Santo’s commanding presence, Mariangela’s quiet strength, or Annabelle’s chic boldness, there’s a wealth of inspiration to be found in the film’s wardrobe.
And as we part ways, dear reader, I leave you with this thought: fashion, like film, is about storytelling. It’s about crafting a narrative with every outfit, about dressing not just for the life you have but for the life you aspire to. So go ahead, decode the fashion code of ‘The Ruthless,’ and let it speak through your style.
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