Set Design & Decoration

Jojo Rabbit  |  2019 |  Taika Waititi

"Jojo Rabbit” (2019), written and directed by Taika Waititi takes place in 1940s Germany and is unlike any world war film I have seen before. The story unfolds through the bright eyes of a 10-year-old boy, offering a “stylised” and optimistic vision of the world. Typically we are faced with a subdued palette for a film of this time, however, Production Designer Ra Vincent, portrays Germany as a vibrant country, noting the unique style of the “artistic zenith” period. The house of Jojo Betzler was built from scratch in a studio in Prague and props and furniture were sourced from the Czech Republic. The first bedroom shown is my favourite and represents a “loose” Victorian style. Whilst it feels quite melancholy compared to the rest of the home, the green velvet bed frame and hand-painted wall create a peaceful and delicate space. The other rooms embrace a more optimistic and fashionable Art Deco appearance from the 30s. Layered textures, patterned wallpaper and vivid colours represent a warm and elegant interior. Character and history are truly expressed here, allowing us to see the fullness of life and love in this home, making it all the more memorable.