One of the things I absolutely loved about Ray Gunn was the fashion! The vintage look of Metropia was visually stunning, and the classic retro cars added to the whole aesthetic. It felt like stepping into old Hollywood with a futuristic twist.
Raymond Gunn, voiced by Sam Rockwell, has that classic private investigator style I absolutely love. His trench coat with its wide lapels, slacks, fedora, and tie give him that old-school detective vibe. His swept-back hair is the perfect finishing touch! His look draws inspiration from Humphrey Bogart, the quintessential film-noir detective, with muted colors that fit his character perfectly.
Ray’s partner, Eyera, voiced by Tom Waits, has a similar detective-inspired look, but with a more weathered, older-gentleman feel. His slightly worn style, adapted to his unusual arachnid body, gives him a character all his own. I love how both characters share that classic film-noir aesthetic while still looking distinct.
Venus Nova, voiced by Scarlett Johansson, brings her own touch of classic Hollywood glamour. Costume and makeup designer Neysa Bove drew inspiration from stars like Lauren Bacall and Katharine Hepburn. You can see that influence in Venus’s elegant look, gorgeous blonde locks, smoky eye makeup, red lips and beautifully detailed eyebrows!
The women’s fashion was definitely a highlight for me. There are so many interesting patterns and prints, along with some really cool vintage-shaped sunglasses! I also noticed how may of the woman are wearing pants. Women’s trousers became more common during the 1940s and 1950s. So cool!
The film’s design also draws inspiration from 1940s technology, including old radios, rounded forms, and distinctive curves that appear in the architecture and some of the fashions. I love how these details connect the clothing to the world of Metropia, creating a retro aesthetic that still feels futuristic.
I also appreciated the creativity involved in dressing all the unusual creatures. The aliens wear everyday styles that help them blend into their world, like a knotted tie vs Ray’s thin tie but adapting those outfits to such different body shapes must have been quite a challenge!
From Ray’s Bogart-inspired detective style to Venus’s Hollywood glamour, patterned fabrics, vintage sunglasses, and retro cars, every detail helps give Metropia its own personality.
Honestly, I could spend just as much time appreciating the fashion and design as I could watching the story unfold. Ray Gunn is such a treat for anyone who loves vintage style and a little futuristic flair!
Ray Gunn opens in select theaters December 4 and streamed on Netflix on December 18, 2026.
