The Super Models: everything you need to know about the series

In the year 2023, even after the glamorous golden age of fashion, the fascination with the fashion universe continues to be a timeless passion. Interest in the lives and careers of the world's most renowned models remains a true obsession, a devotion that dates back to the times before the explosion of social media.

The documentary series titled The Super Models appears like a flame that rekindles the fascination and cultural impact that fashion legends brought to the world. In this dive into the past, the viewer is transported to a time when supermodels reigned supreme, promising to reinvigorate the passion for the history of these iconic and influential figures.

The documentary

Released on September 30th, the documentary Apple TV + takes a captivating look at the early careers of the four main models of the group popularly titled as Big Six. Naomi, Cindy, Linda and Christy are names that represent Naomi Campbell , Cindy Crawford, Linda Evangelista e Christy Turlington.

Presenting behind-the-scenes images of the exclusive world of fashion from the 80s and 90s, in a conversation with the magazine Vogue, Naomi even shared that the episodes also explore a lot of the group's unity, even highlighting the role of all four as executive producers of the project.

As models, we have no control over the use of our images, so it's rewarding to have the opportunity to be the guardians of our own legacy, telling our story in our own words.

Naomi Campbell, model

The fact is that fashion is a universe that follows a continuous cycle, as do sociocultural movements, which gives a current and impressive relevance to many portraits presented in the series, according to the analysis of some experts. The four models not only lived in fashion shows, but also became successful entrepreneurs in the fashion industry, achieving a status above the luxury and haute couture brands themselves. They were the true equivalent of rock stars.

It is interesting to highlight that the documentary sheds light on women who have enjoyed beauty care throughout their lives, but one of the main intentions is to make the project a way to promote crucial discussions about beauty standards and even aging. With all four models surpassing the 50-year mark, it is difficult to think that they would be able to escape society's critical gaze, especially since it is a universe focused on aesthetics.

Another topic much discussed among the documentary's protagonists is the relentless pressure from the industry for aesthetic standards that are often unattainable. On several occasions, the episodes show how society exerts constant scrutiny on the aging process of women, even when they were once considered the “most beautiful in the world”. As a way to reinforce and raise this agenda, helping to bring about change within this universe, the series is an impactful reminder of how disproportionate criticism and expectations are imposed on women throughout their careers.

The content of The Super Models

The images, videos and interviews, especially from the 1990s, dictate the tone of the documentary. An archive of unique and never-before-seen moments, such as the first catwalk photos, tumultuous backstage scenes, classes and competitions, are some of what the viewer can enjoy. Personal stories also make up most of the series, as well as curiosities that the four models bring to light.

much of The Super Models It works like a very direct documentary, where the models speak directly to the camera, focusing on remembering important moments in their lives and careers. Indeed, the magic of the four-episode series lies in its ability to transport audiences back in time.

Negligences and confessions

As previously mentioned, the series also addresses, in a timely manner, problematic themes over time. In addition to the issue of the models' age at the beginning of their careers, topics such as nudity, sexualization, harassment, abuse, addictions and lust are also raised. However, it is important to note that even though it mentions these topics, the documentary's script does not delve as deeply as it could into the underlying causes or the ways in which these problems are rooted in the medium itself. Because of this, some questions without complete answers or more comprehensive analyzes are left a little aside.

The cult of thinness and persistent fatphobia are particularly problematic topics that do not receive due attention. While there is mention of the negative impacts of representing a single body type, the latest episode explains the reason behind this, revealing that this issue has not been addressed effectively even within the industry itself.

The lack of Kate Moss e Claudia Schiffer, members of Big Six, in the cast, also seemed to be something that bothered some viewers, however, no reason has been clarified so far.

Furthermore, the documentary also shows the fragility of each person's life, giving space for confessions to be revealed like Linda's, who ended up being diagnosed with cancer at a certain time. Unfortunately, the illness has recently returned and some scenes show her during treatment at the hospital. At another point, the model also expresses her acceptance of the situation and hopes to face everything with serenity.

Scenes from the series also show Naomi sharing her experiences with menopausal hot flashes, while Christy expresses some hope around her identity and appearance.

Relations

One of the most intriguing parts shows that before the quartet's emergence, the fashion industry was divided between photographic models and catwalk models, and the two categories rarely crossed over. In fashion shows, the emphasis was on impersonality, and the more the models fit this profile, the better. However, despite all the nostalgia, relationships within the industry are points addressed and relevant to the careers of each of the supermodels.

Gianni Versace, for example, played a crucial role in the story of each protagonist, as the designer was the first to recognize the potential and talent of what would become the group. Furthermore, Christy stands out for having played a fundamental role in the entire story. She was the one who invited Naomi, Cindy and Linda to parade for the designer Marc Jacobs, which leveraged them even further in the industry.

Other than that, the connection between Christy and the stylist Calvin Klein it was perfect. It was through this that a significant aesthetic change took place in the early 90s, which soon came to be characterized by campaigns that celebrated lighter images and healthy-looking models. At that time, especially in the 80s, it was customary for fashion to be linked to an accumulation of elements: makeup was heavier, clothes were more vibrant and aesthetics were the opposite of something more natural. The collaboration between the model and the designer redefined beauty standards.

Tendencies

Just like anywhere, at some point, it was expected that a certain type of rivalry or obstacle would occur. In the second half of the 1990s, a new generation began to challenge the supremacy of the supermodels.

With the emergence of new faces Russian models, that is, new models, a new standard began to be established. Due to blonde, white, tall, young and extremely thin figures, the documentary series also sought to give relevance to this period that led to uncertainty about the future of the fashion world. Then other models, such as Kate Moss, Shalom Harlow, Amber Valetta e Erin O'Connor, which had attributes more aligned with the characteristics of the quartet, emerged.

This renewal in the fashion scene can be explained by several reasons, something almost essential for the content of the documentary. The natural cycle in the industry constantly demands new faces and trends, as well as reflecting a change in the sociocultural climate of the time. During this period, the economic crisis did not allow extravagance. The opulence and artificiality that characterized the 1980s and early 1990s seemed increasingly disconnected from reality. The neoliberal discourse, which valued the idea of ​​merit, was causing frustration, while reality showed that seeking perfection was impossible.

In this same context, cultural movements such as hip-hop and grunge, being targets of prejudice, began to gain more followers and visibility. Soon, a more refined and even elitist version of minimalism began to clean up fashion's ostentatious aesthetic. If before there was a certain extravagance in the industry, from that moment on, a transition happened and fashion became more authentic and realistic.

With all this, supermodels started to become much more influential. The documentary also seeks to portray precisely this period, since it was the moment of rise of the Big Six. Much more recognized than the brands that hired them, it was to be expected that discomfort would appear at some point, especially coming from men in leadership positions in the world of fashion. This era created an impact in which many were not willing to tolerate four powerful and autonomous female figures as an obstacle.

The documentary highlights how much the story resonates with more recent events in the fashion market, suggesting that, deep down, many dynamics remain the same, with the search for profits still dictating the direction of the industry.

Models

known as Big Six, together with the famous Kate Moss e Claudia Schiffer, the group of supermodels has long been wanted to star in campaigns for fashion and beauty brands. It's true that these are important attributes in this environment, but what really sparked a revolution were the personalities of each one and everything that contributed to their construction. Despite their different experiences, it is interesting to see that they all grew up in family environments that, before supporting them in their professional careers, prioritized education.

As a result, around the ages of 14 to 16, they all started working on their careers without neglecting their studies. It was precisely this determination to balance education and career that helped solidify their position as enduring industry icons to this day. Not surprisingly, their names are closely linked to activism and philanthropy projects, for example.

Their prestige was so extraordinary that it allowed the four to outgrow the brands they featured, making the names Naomi, Cindy, Linda and Christy as prominent as the designers who dressed them. Today, these four supermodels continue to be at the forefront of culture through activism, philanthropy, and business skills. As the fashion industry continues to redefine itself and the role of women within it, this is the ultimate story of power and how four women came together to conquer it, paving the way for those who came after.

Apple TV +

At the time, the market was also divided between magazine and catwalk models, and these barriers were really difficult to break. It was because of the quartet that paths could be opened for other models to transcend these restrictive categories.

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell , born in London on May 22, 1970, is a world-renowned British supermodel. Her career took off when she was still a teenager, becoming one of the most famous models in the early 1990s. She is known not only for her beauty, but also for her activism in favor of diversity in the fashion industry, fighting against racial discrimination.

In addition to her career on the catwalk, Naomi has expanded her acting into films, television shows and even music. She is an entrepreneur, having launched her own line of clothing, perfumes and beauty products. Her personal life has also been the subject of a lot of media attention over the years, with public relationships and some controversies.

Cindy Crawford

Cindy Crawford, born February 20, 1966 in DeKalb, Illinois, is a widely recognized American supermodel and one of the most iconic of all time. Her career began to take off in the 1980s, and she soon became one of the most famous and sought-after faces in the fashion industry.

Admired not only for her beauty, but also for her versatility in modeling, posing and acting, throughout her career, the model graced countless magazine covers, including the famous Vanity Fair in 1993. Other than that, Cindy has also been involved in films, television shows, philanthropic causes, and charity work.

Linda Evangelista

Linda Evangelista, born on May 10, 1965 in St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada, is an internationally recognized figure as one of the most influential and versatile models in the fashion industry. Starting her career in the 1980s, she stood out for her ability to transform and adapt to different styles and looks.

One of his most notable characteristics was his ability to reinvent himself and also collaborate with some of the most renowned photographers and stylists in the industry. She is known for her famous statement: “I don't wake up for less than ten thousand dollars a day”, which illustrated her influence and her prominent position in fashion. And in addition to her career as a model, Linda also ventured into acting and got involved in charity projects.

Christy Turlington

Christy Turlington, born January 2, 1969 in Walnut Creek, California, is known for having risen to prominence as one of the most prominent and influential figures in the fashion industry. Her career began in the 1980s, but her reputation is also related to activism.

She founded the non-profit organization Every Mother Counts, which aims to improve access to maternal health care around the world. His humanitarian work and commitment to global health and equality issues is highly respected and has earned him international recognition.

Listen to the latest episodes

Episode 01 – The Legacy

The synopsis of the first episode portrays the beginning of it all, where, in 1983, the four models, still teenagers, made their debut in front of the cameras, marking the beginning of a series of historic events.

Episode 02 – The Power

In the second episode, misogyny and sexism are explored, as they involved situations that the four models faced when trying to enter and sustain their careers. These women conquered the world, becoming icons who personified 90s culture in an unparalleled way. However, as time progressed, a shift in perceptions and controversial observations began to challenge the status quo established.

Episode 03 – Fame

The four models, in the third episode, show how much they stood out on the catwalks alongside other fashion giants, appearing in the most prestigious campaigns and fashion shows. However, everything changed and revolutionized with a music video that completely transformed the scene: Freedom! '90 de George Michael made the appearance of supermodels mark the entire decade and shape the aesthetics of the 1990s.

Episode 04 – The Look

The synopsis of the fourth episode tells the changes that the four protagonists had to face, in addition to their presentations and stories from their youth until today, as businesswomen, humanitarians and mothers. With an emphasis on the issue of aging, they report on the depth of maturity and wisdom that transcends aesthetic standards. It is a celebration of a more empowered phase in their more mature ages and of a lot of self-discovery.

Comparison with the Beatles

The comparison with Beatles It's been a long time coming, mainly due to the fact that the group of friends met in New York and soon got together. Moments of relaxation presented in recording files are very reminiscent of the calm atmosphere that the boy band used to have in their time. But other than that, each model's own temperaments, tastes and personalities can also be compared to those of the 60s rock band.

Similar to Paul McCartney, Cindy Crawford She always demonstrated a keen commercial vision and was the first to plan her future beyond the world of fashion. McCartney had a unique ability to predict the band's successes, and Cindy applied that same insight to her own branding even before the term became popular. Proof of this, she was one of the pioneers in terms of introducing celebrities into the Oscar, terminated the contract with Revlon at the height of his popularity to establish his product line and even created a furniture brand.

As already John Lennon, Naomi Campbell played the role of rebel in the group. In the documentary, she openly shares her struggles with drugs, experiences in rehabilitation clinics and acknowledges her episodes of aggression. Including friends and stylists, like Marc Jacobs e John Galliano, also highlight how the model was instrumental in helping them on their own journeys to overcoming addiction. Lennon was also known for his controversial interviews and for provoking public opinion with his unconventional marriage to Yoko Ono.

In the same way that the Beatle had a troubled childhood, Naomi also attributes her temperament to growing up without her father and with an absent mother. In later years, she became a peace activist, helping unsupported children in South Africa and supporting fashion in developing countries. The comparison with John Lennon is quite faithful.

About George Harrison, Christy Turlington She has always been a model of classic beauty that sometimes goes unnoticed. With a habit of being discreet, in addition to having a spiritual side, the model is also the author of a book about yoga and was featured on the cover of the magazine Time About the subject. Harrison had a great influence on the band in the field of meditation and all Eastern culture, which does justice to this more exotic side that Christy also shows.

And just like Ringo Starr was often the most reserved and absent member of the Beatles, he always preserved his personal life more. Linda Evangelista She was also largely absent from the news over the years for different reasons, as she explains in the documentary itself.

The Super Models is a powerful journey through fashion's past, illuminating the glamor and influence of iconic '90s supermodels. While the series touches on sensitive topics like aesthetic standards and systemic problems in the industry, it makes clear that these extraordinary women shaped more than just fashion , but also the power of female representation. Their legacies endure, continuing to inspire and pave the way for future generations, proving that fashion is much more than appearance, it is a narrative of strength, determination and resilience.

It is worth remembering that the documentary series is available in the streaming catalog of Apple TV +.

See also: The best movies and series on Apple TV+

The best movies and series on Apple TV+

Sources: Examination, ELLE

Text proofread by: Pedro Bomfim (4 / 10 / 23)