In a breathtaking visual narrative captured by the lens of Arnold Daniel, Hollywood sensation Austin Butler graces the cover and pages of Interview Magazine‘s Fall 2023 issue. Displaying an eclectic blend of vulnerability and unspoken confidence, the cover story exemplifies the ever-evolving juxtapositions of Butler’s personality and style.
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Right from the beginning, the cover itself is a statement piece. Butler, in a surprisingly candid shot, works a vacuum cleaner with a flair only he can bring. The intriguing choice of props paired with his timeless white shirt and fitted trousers from Bottega Veneta creates an instant conversation starter.
The subsequent visuals are no less impressive. In one standout image, Austin, dressed in a tailored coat from Valentino, carries a nonchalant brown paper bag amidst an industrial backdrop. The gritty urban setting complements the luxurious tweed texture, illuminating the highs and lows of city life.
“I feel incredibly grateful, because I’ve been plugging away at this since I was a kid. I’ve had these dreams for so many years, of getting to work with my heroes, and now a lot of that’s coming true. And to be able to delve into these characters that are compelling, and challenging, and scary, has been such a magical time in my life. The thing that I’m now having to come to terms with, and figure out how to process, is when you go out in the street and you are the one being observed. One of my favorite things used to be sitting at a coffee shop and just observing human nature. Now when I’m looking out, people are looking back. Maybe this is part of a longer conversation, but you and I have talked a little bit about when you’re the one being perceived, how can you perceive the authenticity of the world in a way that serves what you love to do, which is the art?.” Austin Butler for Interview Magazine
Another striking photograph features Butler lounging luxuriously, clad in a plush fur robe like coat from Bottega Veneta. His expressive eyes, coupled with the opulence of his attire, channel a unique blend of old Hollywood glam and modern-day vulnerability. The choice of Emporio Armani and Hermes in other shots enhances the narrative, striking a balance between rugged masculinity and the tender fragility of the modern man.
Interview Editor-in-chief Mel Ottenberg‘s exquisite styling skills are evident throughout the feature. Ottenberg’s selection of iconic brands, from Prada to Valentino, juxtaposed with the narrative’s raw authenticity, solidifies the story’s message: fashion is more than clothing; it’s an emotional experience.
Behind every successful shoot is a dedicated team, and this feature was no exception. Grooming expert Amy Komorowski accentuates Butler’s features using Circa 1970 products, while tailor Shirlee Idzakovich ensures each garment fits flawlessly. The impeccable teamwork, including invaluable assistance from Lucy Gaston, Stephan La Cava, and Nicholson Baird, elevates the story to a realm of pure artistry.
The entire shoot takes place at Giorno Poetry Systems, offering a unique backdrop that subtly infuses each shot with a sense of poetic melancholy
Photography by Arnold Daniel
Styled by Mel Ottenberg
Grooming: Amy Komorowski
Tailor: Shirlee
Location: Giorno Poetry Systems
Production: The Morrison Group
Retouching: picturehouse + thesmalldarkroom
Fashion assist: Lucy Gaston, Nicholson Baird, Stephan Lacava
Photo assist: Eduardo Silva
Discover the complete interview and photo shoot of the cover story on INTERVIEW Magazine’s web page interviewmagazine.com.
