How do costume choices support a film’s narrative?

Costume choices are integral to a film's narrative as they serve to visually portray the characters' identities, development, and societal status. Costumes can reflect a character's personality, their emotional state, and their journey throughout the film. For instance, a character's transition from a humble background to a position of wealth may be represented through increasingly elaborate costumes, illustrating their character arc visually without the need for extensive dialogue.

Additionally, specific costume choices can also communicate details about the setting and time period, anchoring the audience in the film's world. By carefully curating what characters wear, filmmakers can enhance storytelling, making it easier for the audience to understand relationships, conflicts, and changes that occur within the narrative, all while deepening engagement with the story.