On the evening of September 30, 2024, the elegant Cinema Le Balzac in Paris was transformed into a portal between reality and fiction as Maison Margiela (Instagram) premiered “Nighthawk,” a cinematic exploration of its 2024 Artisanal collection. Directed by the visionary Sasha Kasiuha and steeped in the surreal essence that defines John Galliano’s work, this horror vignette captured the audience’s imagination, merging the artistry of haute couture with the narrative of film.
“Nighthawk” emerges from the foundational question posed at the 2024 Artisanal Show—“Would you like to take a walk with me, offline?”—and invites viewers into a world where memory and moment converge. The film serves as a testament to the Maison’s commitment to creating experiences that resonate beyond the confines of traditional fashion presentations. It is a meditation on presence, memory, and the values that Maison Margiela holds dear, offering a counterpoint to today’s fast-paced culture.
The premiere featured an ensemble cast that included industry luminaries like Kim Kardashian, Gwendoline Christie, and Monica Bellucci, alongside the Maison’s muses—Lulu Tenney, Leon Dame, and Frederic Bittner—who blurred the lines between the cinematic narrative and real-life audience engagement. This four-dimensional storytelling not only showcased the collection but also explored the theme of illusion versus reality, a hallmark of Galliano’s artistic vision.
As the audience settled into their seats, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation. The screening was accompanied by a live string quartet, their melodies intricately woven into the film’s score, enhancing the immersive experience. This symbiotic relationship between sound and sight exemplified the meticulous craftsmanship that Maison Margiela embodies, echoing the intricate details of the haute couture pieces showcased in the film.
“Nighthawk” is an evolution of the narratives that have long been a part of Galliano’s creative lexicon. The characters Count and Hen, first introduced in the 2022 Artisanal Collection “Cinema Inferno,” return in this latest installment, weaving a interconnected stories that transcend singular seasons.
Through the lens of “Nighthawk,” viewers are invited to witness a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the artistic process. John Galliano’s narration guides us through the inspirations that shaped this universe, from the experimental dressmaking techniques to the emotional storytelling that defines the Maison’s ethos. The film juxtaposes intimate moments with previously unreleased imagery from the show, recontextualizing the collection through a silent film lens—a nod to the timeless allure of cinema.
As the story unfolds, the characters’ thoughts resonate within the theater, creating a dialogue between the fictional and the actual. The seamless integration of the muses into the screening space—where Frederic Bittner, in a corseted suit, appears both on-screen and in-person—serves as a powerful reminder of haute couture’s ability to transcend the boundaries of fashion, turning illusions into tangible experiences.
The premiere of “Nighthawk” was a monumental moment for Maison Margiela, encapsulating the essence of haute couture through its innovative storytelling and exquisite craftsmanship. It blurred the lines between reality and fiction, inviting audiences to engage with fashion on a deeper level—one that celebrates the artistry and memory that underpin its creations. As we continue to navigate a fast-paced world, “Nighthawk” serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty found in presence, imagination, and the enduring power of fashion as a narrative art form.
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