My history obsession is not limited to the 18th century; the
1920's is a decade that I just can't get enough of, especially in terms of fashion. So when TCM played the fully restored version of
Metropolis
this past Sunday, I gleefully tuned in. In brief, the 1927 silent film is a sci-fi adventure with some amazing imagery and a underlying message. Parts of the movie that were cut for American audiences were, until recently, thought to be lost forever. Luckily an original unaltered copy was found in Argentina.
One of these newly re-added scenes, is a short display of Art Deco costumes in all their splendor. Apparently their vision of future couture was dabbling in fashions of the past (not too far from the truth, no?) and fairy-like outfits. A certain domino-inspired creation gets the appropriate screen time it deserves (video link
here). One has to admire the sassy backless dress which looks like some of the
pannier dresses we've seen on the runway lately. Perhaps the costume designer was inspired by Pietro Longhi paintings?
That sounds very interesting. Could you find it anywhere?
ReplyDeleteWow! I have long been fascinated with this film (I actually own a copy), but certainly never saw this scene before! Thanks so much for bringing it to my attention!
ReplyDelete@lononsarah, The DVD? The awesome version restored version that TCM showed is being released next week. I think I might have to put it on my Christmas list!
ReplyDelete@Alexa, When I was looking for the clip I was delighted to find the full movie on Youtube, but it was the lost footage version and that was when I discovered that this fashion scene was on the cutting room floor (how could they!). You'll have to rent/buy the restored version when comes out to compare!
Ooh. I'm excited now, I'll have to watch it. Thanks for telling me!
ReplyDeleteAnd as I have already said before, I adore this blog and Georgiana.
The music in this clip is just fantastic, too. I couldn't stop listening.
ReplyDelete@Lononsarah, Yes you'll have to check it out, you will be surprised how many scenes you recognize!
ReplyDelete@Vinery, It's so new-agey! The version I saw had the original score which was meant to be performed by a full orchestra. There was something equally as eerie in it.
I love the 1920's! I love the over lap of the Nouveau & the Deco, that made for beautiful art, movies, fashion, jewellery, architecture, furniture, glassworks & so on. The visual introduction of Egypt into it all with the discovery of Tut's tomb in 1921.
ReplyDeleteSo much of it was & is iconic & so many different pieces in many different countries, France, Spain, Germany, etc. It flourished. Every country had their own interpretation of it which is really neat to see & their own pieces that stood out & are remembered around the world. Another amazing era in history & in many ways puts me in mind of the 18th century.
My wife and I just watched this (we DVR'd it from TCM) -- I was so struck by the costumes -- not what you think of for Art Deco!
ReplyDeleteI wish I had a DVR! I had to catch the parts I missed (it clashed with my beloved Boardwalk Empire) through Youtube. It wasn't the same wonderful version TCM had but at least it was something!
ReplyDeleteGasp! I had no idea that was a Longhi painting at the bottom! I love that painting, it's one of my favorites.
ReplyDeleteoh, I am so watching this movie streaming on netflix!
ReplyDeleteI can't believe they put it on instant Netflix! The restored version and everything...good ol' Netflix
ReplyDelete