Watch The Dressmaker

The Dressmaker is a 2015 Australian film based on the novel of the same name by Rosalie Ham. The film follows the story of Tilly Dunnage (Kate Winslet), a dressmaker who has learned haute couture in Paris and returns to her hometown in rural Australia to care for her mother, Molly (Judy Davis). Tilly's return to her hometown is not a warm welcome as she is met with skepticism and mistrust from the townspeople. Despite this, Tilly is determined to transform the town's fashion sense and make a name for herself as a sought-after dressmaker. The movie is set in the 1950s and showcases the stunning fashion trends and styles of that era. Tilly's beautiful creations are a stark contrast to the conservative and outdated fashion styles of the town's residents, making her stand out even more. Adding to the cultural clashes of the film is the fact that Tilly left the town under a cloud of suspicion as a child. It is slowly revealed throughout the film that Tilly's presence in the town is tied to a tragic event that occurred years earlier involving a young boy. As Tilly navigates the town's hostility to her and her work, she finds an unexpected ally in Teddy McSwiney (Liam Hemsworth), a local farmer who is both handsome and charming. Teddy is not immune to the town's prejudices and rigid codes of conduct but he is smart enough to see beyond them and is drawn to Tilly's beauty, creativity, and determination. The movie's themes are complex as it deals with class divisions, the cost of secrets, revenge, love, and redemption. Despite the heavy topics, The Dressmaker is a visually stunning film that features several breathtaking shots of the vast Australian landscape. The music is equally as fitting, blending a mix of vintage jazz, classical music, and pop hits from the era. The performances from the main cast are nothing short of excellent. Kate Winslet shines as Tilly, portraying her character with nuance and sensitivity. Judy Davis is an absolute standout as Tilly's eccentric and unstable mother, delivering some of the film's most memorable and humorous moments. Liam Hemsworth's performance is also noteworthy, showcasing a charm and intensity that makes him a perfect foil for Winslet's Tilly. Overall, The Dressmaker is a beautiful and engrossing film that manages to balance comedy, drama, and romance. It is a testament to the skill of director Jocelyn Moorhouse and the entire cast and crew that this movie manages to be both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.