The premiere of Ryan Murphy's highly anticipated series, "The Beauty," transformed Manhattan's Museum of Modern Art into a spectacle of maximalist glamour, bringing together a constellation of stars on a January evening. Based on a graphic novel series, the show delves into a world where a unique virus bestows physical perfection, albeit with a deadly price. The red carpet buzzed with fashion-forward ensembles worn by cast members like Bella Hadid, Rebecca Hall, and Ashton Kutcher, each embodying the show's blend of high fashion and body horror. The event culminated in an immersive after-party, reinforcing the series' central theme: the lengths to which individuals will go in pursuit of idealized beauty.
On a memorable Wednesday evening, MoMA, typically a venue for minimalist aesthetics, became the backdrop for an extravagant celebration of "The Beauty." Creator Ryan Murphy's signature style was evident, attracting a who's who of Hollywood. The narrative centers on a sexually transmitted virus that offers unparalleled physical allure, a concept that immediately captivated the cast. Rebecca Hall, portraying an FBI agent investigating the "catwalk carnage," expressed her excitement, noting that Murphy's pitch was quintessentially "Ryan Murphy-sounding." Similarly, Jeremy Pope, a returning collaborator, recalled Murphy's intriguing invitation to read something "weird," leading him to a project that promised both depth and peculiar charm.
The fashion on display was as much a character as the actors themselves. Bella Hadid, taking on the role of a supermodel, stunned in a red Schiaparelli gown, a choice she felt her character, Ruby, would undoubtedly approve of. Hadid recounted the challenges and triumphs of wearing a scarlet leather outfit for months during filming, highlighting the dedication required for the show's intricate costume design. Co-executive producer Lou Eyrich emphasized the series' unprecedented commitment to sartorial storytelling, especially evident in the elaborate wardrobe of Isabella Rossellini's character, Franny Frost, who believes haute couture can single-handedly rescue the economy.
Ashton Kutcher embraced a villainous role, a new direction for the actor, finding parallels between the show's premise and contemporary society's obsession with beauty and physical enhancement. He shared a lighthearted anecdote about filming a scene in Versace speedos with Rossellini, underscoring the unexpected and memorable moments on set. Meanwhile, Anthony Ramos's character, the Assassin, showcased an edgy wardrobe, including sleek leather coats and an ornate eye patch, reflecting his charismatic yet sadistic persona. The show’s premiere offered a tantalizing glimpse into a world where beauty comes at a profound cost, leaving attendees to ponder the provocative question posed by Ramos: "How far will you go to be beautiful?"
Following the screening of the initial episodes, which garnered enthusiastic applause, guests ascended to an after-party transformed into a dimly lit, glamorous experimental lab. Plush seating, reflective tables, and decorative pillows created an inviting atmosphere. DJ Stretch Armstrong provided a nostalgic soundtrack, while waiters in medical scrubs served themed cocktails such as "The Virus" and "Cruel & Beautiful," alongside gourmet bites. Adding to the immersive experience, models in latex bodysuits, adorned with lipstick-red lips in place of heads and holding oversized syringes, mingled with the crowd. The event served as a testament to the show's unique blend of drama, fashion, and philosophical inquiry, setting the stage for its upcoming release on FX, Hulu, and Disney+.