Costumes in 'The Painted Veil'.

Lovefilm sent me this DVD a couple of days ago and i had absolutely no idea what to expect. Now i am so glad they did.

If you haven't seen it it's about a bacteriologist (Edward Norton) that goes to China with his new, yet adulterous, wife (Naomi Watts)  to volunteer during a terrible Cholera epidemic. The journey that their relationship goes through is tremendous and filled with emotion. I would definitely recommend having a box of tissues near by. I have to say that i did find it a bit of an effort to watch this film, as it is quite slow paced. However, all that work is completely worth it and i can guarantee that as those credits roll up you will feel so satisfied on many levels.

Ruth Myers has done a remarkable job in designing these beautiful costumes. The clothes suit the characters so well. Everything is quite simple and really looks like it belongs. I particularly love the character Kitty Fane's (Watts) costume. Particularly her use of hats. In the beginning when Kitty is resisting her life, husband and surroundings she is frequently wearing a hat, almost as if sheilding herself. Then towards the end of the film her clothing becomes far more relaxed as she becomes more comfortable.

I also love the contrast between Walter Fane (Norton) and Charlie Townsend's (Liev Schreiber) suits. Walter can usually be seen in a linen suit or just plain shirt and trousers, whereas Charlie is almost dandyish in a 3 piece.

Here are some gorgeous images of these costumes in action. Definitely try and get hold of this film to see for yourself. This is 1920s clothing at it's most believable and very best.