Designer Insight on Bikeriders' Ensembles: A Deep Dive with Erin Benach
In an engrossing conversation, costume designer Erin Benach delves into the detailed process of creating the authentic costumes for the film, "The Bikeriders." Benach meticulously examines Danny Lyon's captivating chronicles of a Midwest motorcycle crew, drawing inspiration from raw imagery and character transcripts to bring each character to life.
Benach's design approach centers on understanding the personality and psychology of each character. For instance, Johnny, played by Tom Hardy, is influenced by "The Wild One" and wears a leather jacket for protection, reflecting his authoritative yet nuanced style. The 1950s silhouette for Johnny set him apart from the '60s aesthetic, establishing his unique identity within the story.
Collaborative efforts with director Jeff Nichols were crucial in bringing these characters to life on screen. Nichols provided valuable background information and the book was a significant resource, enabling Benach to delve deep into the characters' histories and personalities. Every costume choice, from fabric selection to weathering, was carefully considered to reflect historical accuracy and character psychology.
Details such as the greenish-bluish tint on denim, achieved through dyeing, contributed to a cohesive, authentic look for the film. The aging and dying process was extensive, with airbrushing, shading, grease stains, and a dust feeling added to ensure authenticity.
Working with Austin Butler on the costumes for his character, Austin's dedication to understanding the character proved invaluable. Through a collaborative process, they created hand-crafted denim vests that reflected Benny's nonchalant, baggy-cut persona.
The designer highlights the importance of individualizing the Vandals motorcycle club members through distinct costume choices. Each character's jacket, emblazoned with patches, reflected their personality and affiliations, making them feel more real on screen.
Erin Benach's expertise in costume design has had a profound impact on storytelling and character development, particularly in "The Bikeriders." The costumes are a testament to her commitment to authenticity, thorough research, and dedication to her craft.
In the realm of movies-and-tv, Erin Benach's exceptional costume design for "The Bikeriders" showcases her ability to create authentic costumes that embody the personalities and histories of characters, making them resonate in entertainment. Her detailed approach, which includes historical accuracy, character psychology, and collaborative efforts with directors, brings each character's costume to life.
