Whether or not the world needs another Titanic film or series is one thing, but whether the world needs a costumer as cool-headed as James Keast is beyond debate....
Keast began his career on 'Portrait of a Marriage' in 1990, and has costumed a massive array of drama in the years since. In 2007 whilst costuming the BBC's version of 'Tess of the D'Urbervilles' he answered his phone in the night to hear the production's costume lorry, containing thousands of pounds worth of original Victorian garments, had gone up in flames. Keast got to work dying duvet covers and curtains to replicate the period fabrics he had lost. Read the whole story here at;
http//www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1054969/Thats-I-costume-drama-After-Tess-Of-The-DUrbervilles-wardrobe-went-smoke-mans-mission-save-day.htm
The work of Bafta-award winner Keast often lacks the almost theatrical 'star quality' that characterises the work of other costumers, but this may be its strength. His work might sneak its way into museum cases without raising suspicion, and never overwhelms the artist wearing it. His extensive employment of period garments and fabrics contributes to the authenticity. He produces clothes rather than costumes for his characters, which will always get the seal of approval from those in the know. When the production calls for a bit of flamboyance however, Keast is more than capable as his work for the pre-Raphaelite drama 'Desperate Romantics' shows.
We look forward to Julian Fellowe's new version of the Titanic tale, if for no other reason than the understated elegance and authenticity James Keast's work will undoubtedly add to the story.
