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Hedda Gabler Gets a 1950s Makeover
19 Dec
Summary
- Film adaptation moves Hedda Gabler to 1950s England.
- Production designer sought unique voice, not historical accuracy.
- Set design reflects Hedda's tastes and defiance of gentry.
Director Nia DaCosta's film adaptation of "Hedda Gabler" reimagines the classic drama by shifting its setting from 19th-century Norway to the stylish English countryside of the early 1950s. This temporal shift allows for a more intimate and character-driven interpretation of the story.
Production designer Cara Brower embraced this change, focusing on creating a unique visual identity for the film rather than adhering strictly to historical accuracy. She drew inspiration from flamboyant socialites of the era, incorporating elements like Art Deco furnishings and contemporary wallpaper to craft a setting that authentically reflects Hedda's unconventional tastes and rebellious nature.
The resulting production design is a vibrant, playful backdrop that complements Hedda's schemes and her defiance of societal expectations. The film's aesthetic balances the period setting with modern sensibilities, offering a fresh and visually engaging experience of Ibsen's enduring work.
