In Luca Guadagnino’s psychological thriller “After the Hunt,” Julia Roberts takes on the role of Alma Imhoff, a Yale professor embroiled in a harrowing conflict as a student accuses a faculty member of sexual assault. The film, notable for its tense narrative, showcases a powerful cast that includes Ayo Edebiri and Andrew Garfield, who portray the accuser and the accused, respectively. Their performances, combined with sharp dialogue and striking visuals, highlight the film’s exploration of complex human dynamics.
Costume Design in “After the Hunt”
The film’s costume designer, Giulia Piersanti, plays a crucial role in weaving the story’s visual fabric. Piersanti has crafted a wardrobe that reflects character dynamics and narratives through style. Alma Imhoff’s clothing, characterized by preppy and elegant cream-colored pieces, captures her sophisticated persona, featuring luxury labels such as The Row, Celine, and Lemaire. Alma’s outfits are both contemporary and tailored, symbolizing her status within the academic environment.
Edebiri’s character, Maggie Price, mirrors Alma’s style while incorporating elements from young British designer Grace Wales Bonner. This choice of clothing not only showcases a different aesthetic but also hints at Maggie’s desire for Alma’s approval. Piersanti emphasized the shared styles between the characters, stating, “If you notice the women in the film, they all wear very similar items: blazers, button downs. It’s very academic.”
Giulia Piersanti: A Fashion Visionary
Born in Rome and raised across multiple cities, Piersanti’s journey to costume design has been diverse. After studying at Parsons’ Design School of Fashion, she gained significant industry experience, working with renowned fashion houses such as Balenciaga and Celine. Her dual focus on fashion and costume design enables her to blend artistic expressions seamlessly.
Piersanti’s collaboration with Guadagnino began in 2015 with “A Bigger Splash” and continued in critically acclaimed films like “Call Me by Your Name.” She aims to create visually arresting costumes that not only serve the narrative but also resonate with contemporary fashion trends.
Fashion as a Narrative Tool
In “After the Hunt,” Piersanti utilized the script to guide her costume design choices, focusing on the power dynamics present in the film. She sought to reflect the psychological depth of the characters. Utilizing visual research, she curates a comprehensive aesthetic for the actors, enhancing the viewer’s understanding of their personalities through their wardrobe.
Piersanti’s inspiration for the film’s clothing included a study of upper-class aesthetics, avoiding softer fabrics in favor of structured blazers, trousers, and loafers. The goal was to create an “angular feel,” with each choice enhancing the psychological aspects of the characters.
The Impact of Fashion in Cinema
For Piersanti, fashion transcends mere clothing; it serves as a powerful form of non-verbal communication. She believes that behind every garment choice lies an intention, whether conscious or unconscious. This philosophy motivates her design process, ensuring that both film characters and fashion clients are represented with depth and authenticity.
The intricate wardrobe choices in “After the Hunt” not only serve to define characters but also elevate the film’s thematic depth. Through thoughtful costume design, Piersanti contributes significantly to the storytelling, offering insights into the characters’ inner lives and social standings.
