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Will fashion’s film obsession pay off?

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Will fashion’s film obsession pay off?
  • Saint Laurent is venturing into the film industry with three new films, representing a significant shift from their traditional focus on clothing and accessories.
  • The involvement of renowned directors like Paolo Sorrentino and David Cronenberg, alongside an in-house team for one film, illustrates Saint Laurent's commitment to high-quality, artistic storytelling through cinema.
  • This move raises questions about the future role of film in fashion storytelling and whether such projects will serve as innovative mediums for engaging audiences beyond traditional marketing channels.

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Introduction

Fashion and film have long been intertwined. From iconic movie costumes to the influence of fashion on cinematic storytelling, the intersection of these two creative industries is fascinating. This year, Saint Laurent is taking this fusion to a new level with three films: Emilia Perez, Parthenope by Paolo Sorrentino, and The Shrouds by David Cronenberg. This venture marks a significant departure from the brand's traditional focus on clothing and accessories. As we explore the motivations behind this bold move and its potential impact on the fashion world, one question remains: Will fashion's film obsession pay off?

The Rise of Fashion-Focused Films

Fashion has always been a key element in film, from the glamorous dresses of Hollywood to the streetwear-inspired looks of modern cinema. However, the involvement of fashion brands in producing their own films is a relatively recent development. This shift was initiated by high-end fashion brands looking to expand their reach beyond traditional marketing mediums. The result has been a marriage of fashion and film that showcases the aesthetic appeal of the fashion industry and the storytelling potential of cinema.

Saint Laurent's Ambitious Venture

Saint Laurent's decision to produce three films is a testament to their commitment to this fusion. The films, Emilia Perez, Parthenope, and The Shrouds, represent a significant investment for the brand and a departure from their usual focus on clothing and accessories. The choice of directors, including Paolo Sorrentino and David Cronenberg, suggests a deliberate attempt to elevate the quality of the films beyond mere marketing tools.

The Directors' Perspectives

Paolo Sorrentino - Parthenope

Paolo Sorrentino is a renowned Italian filmmaker known for his distinct visual style and introspective storytelling. His involvement with Saint Laurent's film project Parthenope highlights the brand's desire to tap into his artistic vision. Sorrentino's films often explore themes of identity, isolation, and the human condition, which align well with the introspective nature of fashion.

David Cronenberg - The Shrouds

David Cronenberg is a Canadian filmmaker known for his body horror and psychological thrillers. His work often delves into the darker aspects of human nature and is characterized by thought-provoking narratives. The Shrouds promises to be a compelling commentary on the human experience, further emphasizing the brand's willingness to challenge the boundaries of fashion storytelling.

Emilia Perez - Directed by a Saint Laurent Team

The third film, Emilia Perez, marks a departure from the involvement of established directors. Instead, Saint Laurent has assembled a team of in-house filmmakers to direct the project. This approach suggests a desire to maintain creative control and integrate the brand's aesthetic into the filmmaking process.

Implications for the Fashion Industry

The decision to produce these films raises several questions about their potential impact on the fashion industry. Will they create a new form of fashion storytelling, or will they merely serve as a marketing tool? The answer lies in how Saint Laurent and other fashion brands approach this fusion.

The Future of Fashion-Focused Films

As the fashion industry continues to evolve, the role of film in fashion storytelling is likely to expand. The success of Saint Laurent's venture could pave the way for other fashion brands to follow suit. If successful, fashion-focused films could become a new medium for fashion storytelling, allowing brands to engage audiences beyond traditional marketing channels.

Conclusion

Saint Laurent's decision to produce three films marks a significant departure from their traditional focus on clothing and accessories. The involvement of renowned directors and the brand's desire to maintain creative control suggest a serious commitment to exploring the intersection of fashion and film. As we await the premiere of these films, one question remains: Will fashion's film obsession pay off? Only time will tell, but the potential for a new form of fashion storytelling is exciting to consider.: https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/journalism_and_journalistic_writing/index.html: https://www.palomar.edu/users/lpayn/115/GC115-Understanding-Media-and-Culture-An-Introduction-to-Mass-Communication.pdf: https://www.macmillanhighered.com/BrainHoney/Resource/6700/SitebuilderUploads/mediaculture10e/IR/campbell-mediaculture10e-im.pdf: https://quizlet.com/369854693/mcom-3395-7-creating-feature-content-and-op-eds-flash-cards/: https://library.oapen.org/bitstream/handle/20.500.12657/47509/9789048542079.pdf