Designing the Colony’s Look
Carlos Rosario’s initial conversations revolved around defining the colony’s two primary groups: the farmers and the miners. Understanding these factions was essential for crafting authentic costumes that reflected their contributions. His research took him back to American farmers of the mid-20th century, where he discovered vintage Carhartt pieces that helped achieve the gritty, worn look necessary for the farmers’ attire.
For the miners, Rosario drew inspiration from various sources, including old uniforms and coveralls found in Budapest, where the film was prepped. He creatively combined elements such as ’80s ski suits with industrial gear, resulting in a unique style that would resonate with the film’s multicultural setting. The costumes underwent a meticulous aging process to enhance their authenticity.
Capturing the ’80s Aesthetic
Rosario emphasized the importance of embodying the ’80s sci-fi aesthetic, as the film is set between the first two installments of the franchise. He noted that the design needed to reflect the grounded reality of that era, steering clear of the shiny fabrics often associated with modern interpretations. This commitment to authenticity was further exemplified by his collaboration with Reebok to create sneakers for the character Rain, marking a pivotal moment in their design discussions.
Distinctive Character Silhouettes
When discussing the character Andy, portrayed by David Jonsson, Rosario highlighted the significance of his silhouette. Designed to be protective of Rain, Andy’s sleek coveralls set him apart from the earthy tones of the farmers. His costume featured numerous zippers and an industrial feel, reflecting his synthetic nature. A playful addition to his outfit was a fanny pack, conceived during a brainstorming session with Alvarez, which encapsulated the essence of the ’80s while serving a practical purpose for a character who doesn’t require conventional storage.
Creative Highlights and Challenges
Among the many costumes, Rosario expressed particular pride in the Hawaiian shirt designed for the character Navarro. The process of creating a custom fabric pattern and producing multiple shirts was a rewarding experience. He also cherished the challenge of designing Rain’s oversized red rain jacket, a color notoriously difficult to capture on film. The extensive trial and error involved in selecting the perfect shade underscored the collaborative effort of the textile team.
Lessons Learned for Future Projects
Reflecting on the complexities of this project, Rosario acknowledged the technical challenges that arose from the demanding action sequences. The need for multiple costume versions to accommodate stunts and special effects required meticulous coordination with various departments, including prosthetics and visual effects. This experience has equipped him with valuable insights that he plans to apply to future projects, particularly those involving intense action and unique character deaths.
As Rosario concluded, he noted that while the project posed significant challenges, it also provided an exhilarating opportunity to explore the intricacies of costume design within a beloved franchise. The balance of creativity and technicality has left an indelible mark on his approach to future endeavors in the realm of film costume design.
