Costume Stitcher, Production Assistant

Captain Fantastic

Visual Storytelling | Research | Project Management | Editing

Introducing the Problem

  • Referred by Key Costumer. Initially joined as intern for small indie budget film. Eventually hired as a production assistant until wrap.

  • Received script in advance to ideate looks, colors, textures. Which techniques to approach? What could be thrifted and/or altered, and what was possible to create in x-days of production?

Challenges

  • How do you bring characters to life through wardrobe?

  • In what ways can you characterize how this family lived in the wilderness through the garments they wear?

  • How do you ensure garments add depth without distraction?

Solution

  • Create a wardrobe with hand-stitching and distressed techniques for a family that’s living off-the-grid.

  • Execute Head Designer’s vision of a patchwork vest for eldest son, using leftover costume materials.

  • To achieve that lived-in and weathered look, I used aged and distressed Filson canvas to bind the seams. Not just for structural strength since the fabric had bleach damage. But also to show an outdoorsy grip on a character who wanted to escape and experience the world.

Hero vest pictured on right.
Image source: IMDB.com.

Results

  • “Captain Fantastic” was nominated for a Costume Designer’s Guild Award in 2017.

  • The costumes were featured in the 25th Annual "Art of Motion Picture Costume Design” exhibit at FIDM in Los Angeles.

  • Patchwork vest worn by hero and featured in major scene.

  • Director thanked me for the hours and attention to detail, and I was invited by head costume designer to watch a scene being filmed at video village.

  • Head costume designer gave me the opportunity to assemble and edit her character boards for an upcoming project: “The Hateful Eight.”

25th Annual "Art of Motion Picture Costume Design” exhibit at FIDM in Los Angeles.