TL;DR
- Costume designer Francisco Rodriguez-Weil created 47 unique looks for Madfabulous.
- Callum Scott Howells stars as Henry Paget, a flamboyant 19th-century aristocrat.
- The film features extravagant costumes inspired by historical figures.
- Rodriguez-Weil’s designs blend camp with historical accuracy.
- Madfabulous hits UK cinemas on June 5, 2026.
Hold onto your hats, fashionistas! The upcoming film Madfabulous is set to dazzle audiences with its extravagant costumes that are as flamboyant as the characters themselves. Costume designer Francisco Rodriguez-Weil has poured his heart and soul into creating a staggering 47 looks for the film, which stars the fabulous Callum Scott Howells as the audacious 19th-century Welsh aristocrat Henry Paget.
Rodriguez-Weil, known for his work on the hit series It’s a Sin, describes the experience as “the most gratifying” of his career. “I aged badly on this film! But it was a labour of love,” he admits, showcasing his passion for costume design. The film itself is a vibrant tapestry of 19th-century fashion, blending historical accuracy with a modern twist that’s sure to resonate with today’s LGBTQ+ audiences.
Paget, who was notorious for his extravagant lifestyle and flamboyant fashion choices, is brought to life by Howells in a performance that promises to be both captivating and inspiring. Rodriguez-Weil reveals, “He was a cross between David Bowie and Marc Bolan – gender fluid and, later, an inspiration to so many.” This sentiment captures the essence of the film, which not only celebrates fashion but also the fluidity of identity.
Among the standout looks is the “Poseidon Adventure,” inspired by a rare photograph of Paget, where he dons a costume designed to impersonate Triton. Rodriguez-Weil recalls, “The hat took over a week to make.” And let’s not forget the “Caped Crusader,” a dramatic ensemble that required Rodriguez-Weil to scour the streets of London for the perfect fabrics, all while pushing a granny trolley. Talk about dedication!
But it’s not just about the glitz and glamour. Rodriguez-Weil’s designs are steeped in meaning. For instance, one suit, dubbed “Business Barbie Realness,” reflects Paget’s struggle to fit into the traditional roles expected of him. “It’s full of meaning,” he says, illustrating how fashion can serve as a powerful narrative tool.
As we eagerly await the film’s release on June 5, 2026, it’s clear that Madfabulous will not only be a visual feast but also a celebration of LGBTQ+ history and identity. So mark your calendars, because this is one fashion extravaganza you won’t want to miss!
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