by Costume design is a crucial aspect of filmmaking, often serving as a visual language that communicates important information about a character’s personality, journey, and emotional state. Emilia Clarke, known for her captivating performances in various films and television shows, has had her characters brought to life through the strategic use of color by talented costume designers. In this exploration, we delve into how costume designers have utilized color to enrich and deepen the characters portrayed by Emilia Clarke.
Daenerys Targaryen in Game of Thrones:
One of Emilia Clarke’s most iconic roles is that of Daenerys Targaryen in the acclaimed television series “Game of Thrones.” Throughout the series, Daenerys undergoes a remarkable transformation from a vulnerable exiled princess to a formidable queen. This evolution is mirrored in her costume design, particularly through the strategic use of color.
In the early seasons, Daenerys’s wardrobe is characterized by muted tones such as brown, beige, and earthy hues. These colors reflect her humble beginnings and status as a princess in exile, lacking resources and power. However, as Daenerys gains confidence and asserts her authority, her costumes gradually incorporate bolder and richer colors such as deep blues, purples, and blacks. These hues not only symbolize her Targaryen heritage but also signify her growing strength and determination to claim the Iron Throne.
Furthermore, the use of red in Daenerys’s costumes becomes increasingly prominent as the series progresses. Red, traditionally associated with power, passion, and fire, aligns with Daenerys’s evolution as the Mother of Dragons and her embrace of her fire-wielding abilities. The incorporation of red into her wardrobe serves as a visual representation of her growing prowess and the fiery spirit that defines her character.
Sarah Connor in Terminator Genisys:
In “Terminator Genisys,” Emilia Clarke takes on the role of Sarah Connor, a character known for her transformation from a waitress to a fearless warrior determined to protect humanity from impending doom. Costume designers use color to reflect Sarah’s journey and evolution throughout the film.
Initially, Sarah’s wardrobe consists of casual and unassuming colors such as greens and browns, reflecting her ordinary life as a waitress. However, as she embraces her role as a warrior and prepares to confront the looming threat of Skynet, her costumes transition into more functional and utilitarian clothing dominated by blacks, grays, and other neutral tones. These darker hues symbolize Sarah’s resolve, strength, and readiness to face the challenges ahead.
Additionally, accents of red are strategically incorporated into Sarah’s costumes, serving as subtle reminders of her inner strength and determination. Red, often associated with courage and passion, underscores Sarah’s unwavering commitment to her mission and her willingness to sacrifice everything to protect the future of humanity.
Louisa Clark in Me Before You:
In the romantic drama “Me Before You,” Emilia Clarke portrays Louisa Clark, a quirky and optimistic young woman who becomes a caregiver for a wealthy quadriplegic man named Will Traynor. Costume designers use color to convey Louisa’s vibrant personality and contrast her character with the more affluent world of Will Traynor.
Louisa’s wardrobe is characterized by bold and colorful choices, including vibrant florals, bright yellows, and playful patterns. These lively and eccentric outfits reflect Louisa’s free-spirited nature, optimism, and zest for life. By embracing such vibrant colors, Louisa stands out as a beacon of warmth and positivity amidst the somber and muted tones of Will’s affluent surroundings.
In contrast, Will Traynor’s wardrobe is more subdued and sophisticated, characterized by neutral colors and understated elegance. This visual distinction between Louisa’s colorful attire and Will’s more restrained wardrobe serves to highlight their differing backgrounds, lifestyles, and perspectives on life.
The Art of Chromatic Storytelling:
Costume designers play a vital role in bringing characters to life on screen, and their use of color is a powerful tool in conveying narrative themes, character development, and emotional depth. Through careful consideration of color theory and symbolism, costume designers create a visual language that enhances the storytelling experience and enriches the audience’s understanding of the characters portrayed by Emilia Clarke.
Whether it’s the transformation of Daenerys Targaryen from exiled princess to formidable queen, Sarah Connor’s evolution from waitress to warrior, or Louisa Clark’s vibrant and optimistic personality in “Me Before You,” the strategic use of color in costume design serves as a dynamic and compelling storytelling device. By collaborating with talented costume designers, Emilia Clarke’s characters come to life in vivid and nuanced ways, leaving a lasting impression on audiences around the world.
In conclusion, chromatic storytelling is a powerful and essential element of filmmaking, allowing costume designers to craft characters that resonate deeply with audiences. Through the careful selection and manipulation of color, Emilia Clarke’s characters are brought to life with authenticity, depth, and visual impact, further cementing her status as one of the most compelling and versatile actors of her generation.
