The Last Samurai Costume Co-ordinator

I was in charge of co-coordinating the design and manufacture of the Samurai Armour for this historical drama featuring Tom Cruise. I worked closely with the Costume Designer to create and produce the five hero looks, 13 ensemble cast and 350 background soldiers.

All the armour and textile components were manufactured entirely in New Zealand at our temporary workshop and through the prop shop Main Reactor. This involved me overseeing a large group of blacksmiths, pattern cutters, chain mailers, costume props technicians and a group of six jewellers who crafted the fine detail on all the armour.

Ngila Dickson was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Costume Design for the film.