Apple TV+ recently unveiled the much-anticipated trailer for its original drama series, “The New Look,” starring the illustrious Emmy Award winner Ben Mendelsohn and Academy Award winner Juliette Binoche. The series presents Mendelsohn in the role of fashion icon Christian Dior while Binoche portrays the legendary Coco Chanel.
With its storyline rooted in real-life events and set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Paris of the 1940s, the series depicts a poignant period when Paris reemerged as a beacon of life and style post-World War II. The captivating 10-episode series starts with its initial three episodes scheduled for global release on Apple TV+ this Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2024, and subsequently follows a weekly release pattern culminating on April 3.
According to the series’ creators, “The New Look” details the transformative era that spotlighted French fashion and its capital during a time of occupation and upheaval. It focuses on the ascent of Christian Dior, whose innovative vision revived Parisian glamour. Meanwhile, Coco Chanel, once the unrivaled name in luxury fashion, finds her position threatened by Dior’s rising stardom. Not merely a narrative of competitors, the series interlays compelling tales of Dior’s companions and rivals, among them Pierre Balmain, Cristóbal Balenciaga, and other notable figures of the era. The show promises to offer its audiences an exquisite glimpse into the atelier, designs, and garments pioneered by Dior, in collaboration with the House of Dior.
“The New Look” notably features a star-studded lineup, including Maisie Williams as Christian’s sister Catherine Dior, John Malkovich as French fashion designer Lucien Lelong, Emily Mortimer as fashion insider Elsa Lombardi, Claes Bang as Spatz, and the venerable Glenn Close as iconic fashion editor Carmel Snow.
Adding to the show’s essence and allure is the series’ soundtrack, thoughtfully curated and produced by Grammy Award-winning artist Jack Antonoff. The music collection features contemporary covers of early- to mid-20th-century hits, performed by a blend of renowned musicians such as the group Bleachers, Florence Welch, Lana Del Rey, Matty Healy of The 1975, Beabadoobee, Nick Cave, Perfume Genius, and others.
This ambitious Apple Studios and DB-AK Productions endeavor is not only written but also executively produced and directed by Todd A. Kessler. Furthermore, industry veterans Lorenzo di Bonaventura and Mark A. Baker also contribute as executive producers, bringing expansive experience to the table.
Intrigue around the series was further stoked by the recent release of the official trailer, which is available for audiences to watch online. It provides onlookers with a preview of the upcoming rendezvous with fashion’s golden age, marked by talent, opulence, and the stirring narrative of resilience fused with the art of design.
While the immediate reaction to the trailer is a wave of anticipation for the series’ premier, the central tale of Dior, Chanel, and the cadre of fashion greats is poised to transport viewers back to a time where elegance prevailed in the face of adversity. “The New Look” is more than a period drama—it’s an homage to the power of style, the impact of visionary designers, and the indomitable spirit of Paris.
This series, with its arresting aesthetic and compelling performances, is slated to become a staple for aficionados of fashion history and gripping storytelling alike. As the release date approaches, the fashion world and audiences worldwide are set to rediscover the rebirth of Paris through the lens of Apple TV+.
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