AnOther Magazine investigates how the cult classic film continues to influence contemporary aesthetics on social media, from the Coquette aesthetic to Balletcore.
In a recent exploration of internet subcultures influenced by the 1975 cult classic, Picnic at Hanging Rock, AnOther Magazine delves into how this film continues to inspire various aesthetics on social media platforms. Set in rural Australia in 1900, the film directed by Peter Weir tells a haunting tale of teenage girls from a female boarding school who mysteriously disappear during a trip to the outback. The narrative, based on Joan Lindsay’s novel, poses unsettling questions regarding the fate and societal roles of young women during the Edwardian era, encapsulating the somber reality of their existence.
Picnic at Hanging Rock has captivated audiences with its unique blend of beauty and unsettling themes. The film presents the girls in moments of tender interaction, such as grooming with flower water and reciting poetry, which sharply contrasts their subsequent vanishing. One notable line from the film, delivered by the character Marion, reflects the deeper existential musings contained within its narrative: “A surprising number of human beings are without purpose.” This poignant exploration of youth and femininity has led to the emergence of various internet subcultures that echo the film’s themes.
Among these subcultures is the Coquette aesthetic, heavily influenced by historical figures such as Marie Antoinette. This style incorporates elements like lace, bows, and ribbons, creating a flirtatious yet reserved appearance. The coquette aesthetic surged back into popularity in the 2010s through platforms like Tumblr and further evolved into niche variations in the 2020s. The representation of modern coquette girls often features literary references such as Jane Austen and Nabokov’s Lolita, as well as a soundtrack dominated by Lana Del Rey’s music. The surrounding environments typically evoke a sense of comfort, often showcased in frilly, pastel-colored bedrooms.
Another subculture birthed from the film’s aesthetic is the Sad Girl movement, which channels the girls’ blend of harsh reality and dreamlike aspirations. Modern sad girls adorn their spaces with a clutter of carefully curated items—books, trinkets, and personal memorabilia—mirroring the emotional turmoil captured in the film. This aesthetic has roots in the ‘dissociative feminism’ articulated by artist Audrey Wollen, and it embodies a nuanced expression of feminine pain intertwined with self-identity.
Contrasting with Sad Girls, the Soft Girl aesthetic promotes a lifestyle of tranquility and self-care. This approach shies away from the hustle culture embodied by the 2010 #GirlBoss phenomenon, instead celebrating a more relaxed, feminine ideal. Soft girls often embrace pastel palettes and gentle aesthetics, aligning with self-pampering activities like yoga and smoothie-making, yet they face scrutiny for their perceived adherence to traditional gender roles.
Balletcore, a trend that has gained traction recently, draws on the ethereal ballerina imagery found in both Picnic at Hanging Rock and Dario Argento’s Suspiria. This subculture combines classic ballet attire with everyday fashion, featuring elements such as leggings, wrap tops, and ballet buns. Rather than showcasing fragility, balletcore emphasizes strength and discipline inherent to the sport, allowing for a juxtaposition of power and grace.
Through these various subcultures, the impact of Picnic at Hanging Rock on contemporary aesthetics is evident. The film’s exploration of femininity, youth, and the mysteries that surround them continues to resonate across generations, affirming its status as a significant cultural touchstone.
Source: Noah Wire Services
