Asteroid City exhibition immerses visitors in Wes Anderson’s Americana film sets
Introduction
An exhibition showcasing the sets, props, costumes, and artwork used in Wes Anderson’s latest film, Asteroid City, has opened at 180 The Strand in London. The exhibition aims to transport visitors into the fictitious world of the film, set in a desert town in 1950s America known for its meteor crater and celestial observatory. With an emphasis on the attention to detail and craftsmanship that went into creating the film, the exhibition provides a unique opportunity for audiences to engage with the whimsical and imaginative universe of Wes Anderson.
The World of 1950s Americana
The Asteroid City exhibition offers visitors a glimpse into the “1950s Americana world” that the film is set in, according to Ben Alder, the associate producer of Asteroid City. The film was shot on flat farmland in Spain, with carefully constructed buildings designed to replicate a small American town. Alder explains that everything seen in the film was physically built, giving the actors and crew a sense of actually living in the town. The exhibition allows visitors to appreciate the effort and care put into creating the costumes and sets, providing a deeper understanding of the film’s enchanting aesthetic.
An Immersive Experience
The exhibition is spread across three main spaces, with the sets displayed in the largest open space to create a sense of their size and scale. Visitors can explore the various elements of the film, with audio clips and projections of scenes adding to the immersive experience. Additionally, there are smaller spaces dedicated to displaying costumes, props, and other objects that delve into the details of the characters and their world. But what sets this exhibition apart is the opportunity for visitors to interact with the sets themselves. They can sit inside the train compartment, recreate scenes with the characters, and even step inside a telephone booth. This level of engagement provides a truly special experience that is rare to find in exhibitions.
A Celebration of Craftsmanship
The Asteroid City exhibition not only highlights the grand sets and fantastical world of the film but also showcases the craftsmanship behind it. Puppets created by Andy Gent, who previously collaborated with Wes Anderson on “Isle of Dogs” and “Fantastic Mr. Fox,” are on display. The exhibition also features a series of glass flowers used in a stop-motion animation sequence, transforming from blooming to wilting. These intricate details allow visitors to appreciate the artistry and skill that is often overlooked in the world of filmmaking.
A Taste of Nostalgia
The exhibition culminates with a recreation of a 1950s-style luncheonette, complete with a menu and a desert landscape framed within fake windows. Visitors can order food and drink, fully immersing themselves in the nostalgia of the Asteroid City world. This final touch adds an extra layer of authenticity to the exhibition, allowing audiences to further connect with the film and its themes.
Conclusion
The Asteroid City exhibition successfully transports visitors into the enchanting world of Wes Anderson’s latest film. Through detailed sets, costumes, and props, the exhibition provides a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and imagination that make Anderson’s films so distinct. It offers a unique opportunity for film enthusiasts, fans of Wes Anderson, and those interested in design and visual storytelling to dive deep into the whimsical universe of Asteroid City. Whether you’re captivated by the sets, mesmerized by the costumes, or simply looking for a nostalgic experience, this exhibition is sure to delight cinephiles and design enthusiasts alike.
Sources:
<< photo by Alexander Grey >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
