Fashion and cinema, two dynamic art forms, have always been intertwined, creating a symbiotic relationship that influences and inspires. Today, we venture into the realm of character analysis and style breakdown, where we delve into the intricacies of costume design and its impact on character portrayal. From the subtle nuances of color schemes and fabric textures to the defining silhouettes and accessories, each aspect of a character’s wardrobe is a window into their psyche, their background, and their journey throughout the narrative.
Our focus for this exploration is the gritty and gripping drama, ‘The Devil All the Time’ (2020). Directed by Antonio Campos, the movie is a haunting tableau of post-war America, where the characters’ wardrobes play a crucial role in cementing their personalities and their circumstances. It’s a film that’s rich in character development and equally rich in style, giving us plenty to analyze and dissect.
Overview of ‘The Devil All the Time (2020)’ Aesthetic
Set in the period between World War II and the Vietnam War, ‘The Devil All the Time’ offers a stark contrast to the glitz and glamour often associated with the cinematic representation of these decades. The film’s aesthetic is steeped in realism, mirroring the harsh realities of its setting – rural Ohio and West Virginia. The color palette leans towards earthy tones of brown, black, and gray, reflecting the grim and somber mood that permeates the narrative.
- The men’s wardrobe is characterized by utilitarian clothing – work shirts, suspenders, and hats, indicative of the working-class background of most characters.
- The women’s clothing, while also simple, has touches of femininity in the form of floral prints, ruffled edges, and soft colors.
- The accessories are minimal, with religious symbols being a recurring theme, mirroring the overarching theme of faith and religion in the movie.
Bill Skarsgí¥rd as Willard
Bill Skarsgí¥rd’s portrayal of Willard, a troubled war veteran, is poignant and compelling. His wardrobe is an extension of his character – modest, practical, and somewhat dated, reflecting his humble background and the lingering effects of the war on his life.
- Key elements of his outfit include rugged work shirts, dark trousers, and a weathered hat, all in muted colors. The clothes are often dirty and worn out, underscoring his physical labor and hardships.
- His military jacket is a stark reminder of his past, a symbol of his trauma that he carries with him.
- The cross necklace he wears is indicative of his complicated relationship with religion, a theme that runs deep in his storyline.
Tom Holland as Arvin
Tom Holland’s character, Arvin, is a complex youth dealing with the trauma of his past. His wardrobe, like his father’s, is simplistic and practical, but with a slightly more modern edge, reflecting the changing times.
- His staple outfit consists of denim jackets, checkered shirts, and jeans, a typical attire for young men in the 60s.
- His beanie, worn in several scenes, adds a rebellious touch to his character, setting him apart from the more conservative adults around him.
- The Luger pistol he inherits from his father becomes a significant accessory, symbolizing his descent into violence.
Banks Repeta as Arvin at 9 (as Michael Banks Repeta)
Young Arvin’s wardrobe is a miniature version of his father’s, emphasizing the strong bond between them. His clothes are plain and functional, reflecting the simplicity of his childhood before the tragedy strikes.
- His earth-toned shirts and trousers mirror his father’s clothing, symbolizing his admiration for him.
- His small cross pendant is identical to his father’s, highlighting the religious influence in his upbringing.
Emilio Subercaseaux Campos as Baby Arvin
Baby Arvin’s clothing is typical of a child of his age in the 40s – simple, comfortable, and in soft, neutral colors. His outfits represent his innocence, a stark contrast to the grim world around him.
Haley Bennett as Charlotte
Charlotte, portrayed by Haley Bennett, is a radiant presence in the otherwise gloomy narrative. Her wardrobe, though simple, is distinctly feminine, with soft colors and floral prints.
- Her pastel-colored dresses and skirts stand out against the drab surroundings, symbolizing her warmth and kindness.
- Her locket necklace is a significant accessory, representing her love for her family.
Kristin Griffith as Emma
Emma, played by Kristin Griffith, is a devoutly religious woman whose wardrobe reflects her conservative nature and deep faith.
- Her long, modest dresses in dark colors are indicative of her religious beliefs and stern personality.
- Her cross brooch is a constant accessory, underscoring her unwavering faith.
Sebastian Stan as Deputy Lee Bodecker
Deputy Lee Bodecker, played by Sebastian Stan, is a corrupt lawman with a distinct style that sets him apart from the other characters.
- His uniform represents his authority, while his cowboy boots and hat add a touch of flamboyance, hinting at his ego and lust for power.
- His aviator sunglasses are a staple accessory, adding an edge to his character and shrouding his intentions.
Styling Tips for Different Occasions: How to dress like the characters
While ‘The Devil All the Time’ is far from a fashion film, its authentic and character-driven wardrobe provides ample inspiration for those looking to add a vintage touch to their style.
- For a casual, ’60s inspired look, opt for Tom Holland’s Arvin style – a checkered shirt, denim jacket, and jeans.
- For a feminine, vintage look, emulate Haley Bennett’s Charlotte with a pastel-colored dress and a delicate locket.
- For a bold, authoritative look, channel Sebastian Stan’s Deputy Lee Bodecker with a crisp shirt, dark trousers, cowboy boots, and aviator sunglasses.
Get the look: Summary of outfits and where to buy them
While original vintage pieces can be hard to find, many contemporary brands offer retro-inspired clothing that can help you recreate the looks from ‘The Devil All the Time’.
- For Bill Skarsgí¥rd’s Willard look, opt for rugged work shirts and trousers from brands like Carhartt or Dickies. His military jacket can be found in surplus stores or brands like Alpha Industries.
- To recreate Tom Holland’s Arvin style, check out brands like Levi’s for denim jackets and jeans, and Uniqlo for checkered shirts.
- To channel Haley Bennett’s Charlotte, look for floral dresses in brands like & Other Stories or Reformation.
How to incorporate ‘The Devil All the Time (2020)’ wardrobe into your style
Incorporating the wardrobe from ‘The Devil All the Time’ into your style doesn’t mean dressing in full vintage attire. Instead, it’s about taking inspiration from the characters’ outfits and adding a modern twist.
- Mix and match modern and vintage pieces. Pair a vintage-inspired checkered shirt with modern skinny jeans, or a floral dress with contemporary accessories.
- Use accessories to add a vintage touch. A cross necklace or a pair of aviator sunglasses can instantly give a nod to the ‘The Devil All the Time’ aesthetic.
- Play with colors and textures. Opt for earthy tones and rugged textures to emulate the film’s aesthetic.
Conclusion
Character analysis and style breakdown is a fascinating exercise that offers a deeper understanding of film characters and their narratives. ‘The Devil All the Time’, with its complex characters and authentic wardrobe, is a prime example of how fashion can be used as a storytelling device. Whether you’re a film buff, a fashion enthusiast, or both, there’s much to appreciate and learn from this cinematic masterpiece.
So, why not incorporate some of the ‘The Devil All the Time’ style into your wardrobe? Remember, fashion is about self-expression, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make the look your own. Share your unique style tips in the comments and revisit us for the latest updates on fashion advice and exclusive deals!
