We'll Take Manhattan

We'll Take Manhattan is a British television film that first premiered in 2012. Directed by John McKay, the movie revolves around the fashion industry during the 1960s and offers a dramatic representation of real-life events. The film features an engaging storyline with talented actors such as Sascha Bailey, Frances Barber, and Aneurin Barnard. These actors bring the dynamic and fast-paced world of fashion to life, skillfully capturing the energy and excitement, as well as the tension and drama, prevalent in that era.

Set during a time when the industry was on the brink of a revolution, We'll Take Manhattan delves into the beautiful chaos and the transformative power of fashion. It takes the viewer on a journey through a world of glamour, societal expectations, and the struggle of people within the industry who aspired to break the conventional norms. As such, it provides an intriguing depiction of the dynamics, conflicts, and changes that defined the fashion industry in the 1960s.

Aneurin Barnard takes on the role of David Bailey, a talented and ambitious young artist. Sascha Bailey portrays the eccentric and visionary Vogue editor, Lady Clare Rendlesham. The palpable chemistry between the actors forms a significant part of the drama unfolding on-screen, with both actors impeccably representing their respective characters. The film is not just about fashion but showcases their powerful and complicated relationships, and how they navigate their careers in a cut-throat and high-stakes industry.

Frances Barber, on the other hand, delivers a stellar performance portraying the iconic Jean Shrimpton, an influential figure in the modeling world. Barber's performance captures the complexity of Shrimpton's character, her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated industry, and the struggles and triumphs she experienced on her path to success.

We'll Take Manhattan centers around a groundbreaking Vogue photo shoot in New York City that took place in 1962. David Bailey, a then-unknown photographer, and Jean Shrimpton, an emerging model, are the key characters of the drama. Bailey views this opportunity as a chance to revolutionize the fashion industry through his unique and creative approach to photography. At the same time, Shrimpton perceives this as her big break and a stepping stone towards establishing a successful modeling career, despite facing numerous challenges and prejudices.

Significantly, the movie explores the conflict between the old and new ways in the fashion industry, reflecting on the limitations and shortcomings of traditional practices and the need for a fresh perspective. The film showcases Bailey’s disruptive, passionate, and innovative approach to fashion photography, in stark contrast to the more restrictive, conservative, and outdated methods of his seniors. Here, the film cleverly uses metaphorical representation through the lens of fashion to comment on broader societal changes occurring during that time period.

The film wonderfully captures the allure and glamour of 1960s New York City while also highlighting the cut-throat and competitive nature of the fashion industry. Its brilliant visuals, evocative storytelling, and breathtaking historical aesthetics make it a movie that not only fashion enthusiasts but history buffs and drama lovers will appreciate.

In terms of screenplay, John McKay has done a commendable job, efficiently managing to mix historical accuracy with a captivating narrative. The result is a film that is both informative and entertaining. The dialogue is crisp and clever, further enhancing the viewing experience.

We'll Take Manhattan is more than just a film about fashion - it's about artistic vision, courage, conflicting principles, and the power of innovation. It is about personalities who dared to defy the conventional and change the world of fashion forever. It's a historical and dramatic depiction of the 1960s fashion industry, viewed through the lens of two influential figures who rewrote the rules. Overall, We'll Take Manhattan is a must-watch for those seeking a unique, historical, and dramatic representation of the transformative power of fashion.