26 Aug 21
Elegant, extravagant & outlandish: one thing these films all have in common are the luxurious lifestyles these characters lead. They are lifestyles that, despite the complications the characters might face, we all long for a glimpse into – whether it be a fancy cars, grand parties, the best jewellery and, of course, a big mansion, these five films are great representatives of luxury through different time periods. Read on to discover films that show all the different aspects of a luxurious life.
Based on the popular book of the same name, the title perfectly summaries the lifestyles the majority of the characters in this Singapore-set story have. When we meet Rachel's (Constance Wu) friend Peik Lin Goh (Awkwafina) and her family, we see that they live in a massive house – almost everything is gold. We think we've seen it all, but nothing lives up to the life and luxury of the Young household. As Peik Lin Goh says "These people aren't just rich, okay. They're crazy rich". We get a first impression of them from the film's montage where we see Nick Young's (Henry Golding) family who are directors, financiers, entrepreneurs and fashion icons. Once we're invited into their grand house, we realise that is something that is beyond what we've ever seen. To top it off, the wedding in the film is the most beautiful and lavish wedding imaginable.
Based on the popular 1925 novel of the same name, this film is a perfect example of the aesthetics of Baz Luhrmann's films. If you follow the director's work, you'll know: his sceneries are extravagant, mysterious and riotous. This fits the story perfectly, particularly as Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio) is a mysterious millionaire who hosts grand parties in the Roaring Twenties of New York City. It's a beautiful yet tragic story, as you realise that the man who appears to have everything he wants is missing out on the thing he wants the most.
The ultimate "fake it until you make it" film – which is based on a true story – tells the tale of Jordan Belfort's life as he rises and falls from his life a wealthy stockbroker into a world filled with corruption, fraud, sex and drugs. During his peak, you see Jordan (Leonardo DiCaprio) on yachts, living in a gigantic mansion, and having some of the craziest parties. This film is considered as a pinnacle of Leonardo DiCaprio's career: some might argue that the Oscar he received for The Revenant was really for the Oscar they never gave him for this film. Perhaps DiCaprio's finest collaboration with director Martin Scorsese within their 18 years of filming together, the film also provides a now-iconic breakout performance from Margot Robbie.
Set in the 80s, this film is about a charismatic entrepreneur, Rory (Jude Law) who relocates his wife, Allison (Carrie Coon) and family to England where they live in this big lavish house. Tensions start to build as secrets start to unravel. A thrilling example of luxury as a shield for what's really going on, Law and Coon do an excellent job playing a couple having to face the unwelcome truths behind the façade that they present to others. But it has to be said: it's a stunning façade.
What better way to highlight obscene wealth than the story of French royalty? Set during the 18th century, this film is based on the life of Queen Marie Antoinette. From her marriage to the future King of France at the age of 14, to becoming a Queen at the age of 19, this film shows the lavish lifestyle a member of the Royal Family would have during that time period – and how teenage Marie uses it as an excuse for delightful pastel-toned decadence. As the King and Queen enjoy their magnificent lives, they're rarely distracted by what uprisings are to come. Revolution may come knocking, but for now? Let them eat cake.
The Nest arrives in cinemas on Friday 27 August
