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Apple TV+’s “The Studio”: A Fantasy Take on Hollywood’s Studio System
Apple TV+ markets “The Studio,” its Hollywood satire starring Seth Rogen, as a “comedy.” However, according to the show’s costume designer, Kameron Lennox, it also operates as a fantasy. This series, “The Studio”, offers a comedic yet poignant commentary on the film industry.
Ms. Lennox observed, “These characters are striving to preserve their enduring affection and dedication for the foundational principles of filmmaking. Regrettably, we are gradually relinquishing that essence.”
“The Studio,” conceived and helmed by Mr. Rogen and Evan Goldberg, centers on Matt Remick, portrayed by Mr. Rogen. Remick is an ambitious individual who has ascended to the chief executive position at the fictitious Continental Studios. Remick, alongside his inner circle of department heads, is deeply enamored with a self-absorbed nostalgia for the golden age of Hollywood.
Their routines involve watching “Casino,” passionately advocating for original projects over recycled intellectual property, and deferring to the numerous Hollywood elites who appear in “The Studio” as exaggerated versions of themselves. The irony is palpable, given that the show is broadcast on a streaming platform—the very type that played a significant role in disrupting the traditional Hollywood framework.
The Wardrobe as a Reflection of a Bygone Era
While contemporary Hollywood executives might favor understated attire like gray sweaters and expensive sneakers, “The Studio” deliberately disregards this trend. Matt Remick, with his vibrant turmeric dress shirts and blazers featuring pronounced lapels, embodies a bygone era, reminiscent of studio moguls who dressed with Italian industrialist flair—a period that may be more idealized than historically accurate.
Ms. Lennox recounted an instance where real-life executives, visiting the show’s costume department on the Warner Brothers lot, inquired, “Is this the expected dress code now?”
In a recent discussion, Ms. Lennox detailed the custom-made suits for the cast, the inspiration behind Kathryn Hahn’s maximalist wardrobe, and the logistics of dressing the show’s array of high-profile guest stars. The following is an edited and condensed version of their conversation.
Seth Rogen’s Personal Style and Character Costume Design
Did Seth Rogen’s personal style influence Matt Remick’s wardrobe?
No, not directly. However, having collaborated with him on previous projects, I noticed his evolving preference for relaxed, double-breasted suits. When he arrived on set, we began incorporating these elements.
During our initial discussions about the project and his character, Seth was very articulate about his desired presentation, particularly concerning the fit of the shoulders. He emphasized a relaxed, unstructured feel, combined with the double-breasted style.
Once he found the right look, he affirmed, “This is precisely what I envision,” but stressed the necessity for an air of extravagance.
Were the suits custom-made for “The Studio”?
Our wardrobe team sourced garments from Europe and Canada, exploring various Italian suitmakers for orders and subsequent modifications. However, sourcing limitations led us to commission suits from the head of the costume department at Warner Brothers and engage my personal cutter for additional pieces.
When an actor like Seth provides specific direction, it allows for a focused approach to detail. For instance, the lapel pins featuring the Continental Studios logo were all custom-designed.
Brunello Cucinelli and Costume Accuracy
The Brunello Cucinelli Sport Coat Mention: Fact or Fiction?
The Brunello Cucinelli sport coat mentioned in Episode 2 was not actually a Cucinelli. It was designed to evoke the brand’s aesthetic. Budgetary considerations limit the extent of genuine designer pieces.
The Evolution of Matt Remick’s Lapels
The Growing Lapels: A Visual Cue for Ego?
Indeed, as Matt’s ego and self-assurance escalate throughout the season, his lapels progressively widen. It became an inside joke: excessively large lapels signaled a day of heightened ego for his character.
Maya Mason’s Trend-Driven Style
Kathryn Hahn’s Character, Maya Mason: A Study in Pop Culture Fashion
For Maya Mason, the marketing chief played by Kathryn Hahn, inspiration was drawn from style icons like Beyoncé, Gwen Stefani, and Jennifer Lopez, known for their meticulously curated music video looks. The concept was that Maya attempts to integrate this high-fashion styling into her daily life. In the opening episode, she sports a Stüssy shirt and Diesel “boots” jeans, reflecting a desire to stay current with youth trends. Her wardrobe was sourced from high-end retailers like H. Lorenzo and Ssense.
Dressing Hollywood’s Elite: Cameos and Personal Style
Managing the Wardrobe for Celebrity Cameos
Our team provided costumes for many of the celebrity cameos. However, luminaries like Martin Scorsese, who has a bespoke suit maker in Italy, opted to bring his own attire. Our role was to ensure everything was set for filming. Peter Berg, fittingly, used his personal boxing sweatshirt.
For the Golden Globes episode, numerous cameos were from individuals generously donating their time. Aaron Sorkin, for example, arrived in his own tuxedo.
We styled Ron Howard, aiming for a look that resonated with his public persona. Notably, he incorporated his own “Imagine” company hat into the ensemble.
His daughter, Bryce, visited the set during his shoot and expressed amazement at our ability to dress him so authentically to his own style.