Why Historical Films Are Embracing Raw Realism—And Why It Matters
The era of hyper-polished, sanitized historical dramas is fading. Filmmakers like Emerald Fennell, the Oscar-winning director behind Wuthering Heights (2026), are leading a charge to strip away modern conveniences—including grooming standards—to force audiences to confront the unfiltered realities of the past. This shift isn’t just about aesthetics. it’s a cultural reckoning with how we consume history, authenticity, and even our own comfort zones.
Fennell’s controversial decision to leave Margot Robbie’s armpits unshaven for her role as Catherine Earnshaw wasn’t just a stylistic choice—it was a deliberate provocation. By rejecting the “clean-shaven, flawless” female leads of past adaptations, she forced audiences to ask: “What did women in the 18th century actually look like?” The answer, as Fennell’s research revealed, was not the airbrushed beauties we’ve been fed.
Did You Know?
Historical records and portraits from the 1700s–1800s show that women rarely shaved their armpits—a practice that only became widespread in the early 20th century. Even Queen Victoria, often depicted as the epitome of Victorian modesty, never removed her underarm hair.
Beyond Bulu Ketiak: How Filmmakers Are Redefining Historical Accuracy
Fennell’s approach is part of a growing trend where directors prioritize raw authenticity over cinematic polish. Here’s how this movement is reshaping filmmaking:
- Costume Realism: Films like Bridgerton (2020–present) and The Favourite (2018) have faced backlash for anachronistic fashion choices. In response, directors are now consulting period historians to ensure everything from wig styles to underwear aligns with the era.
- Body Hair and Grooming: The Wuthering Heights controversy mirrors debates around Game of Thrones’s bearded female characters and The Crown’s realistic aging effects. Audiences are increasingly demanding unfiltered portrayals of historical figures.
- Language and Dialects: Shows like The Great (2020–present) have been praised for their authentic Swedish dialogue, while Outlander faced criticism for modernized Scottish accents. The push is now toward linguistic accuracy to immerse viewers deeper.
- Sensory Details: Fennell’s aspic-and-finger scene in Wuthering Heights is a prime example of sensory storytelling. By incorporating smell, texture, and even sound (like the sound of a knife cutting through jelly), filmmakers create multi-dimensional historical experiences.
Pro Tip for Filmmakers
Want to add historical authenticity to your project? Start with these three steps:
- Consult a historian—not just for facts, but for cultural context (e.g., how poverty or class affected daily life).
- Use primary sources: Diaries, letters, and period advertisements reveal details modern research often misses.
- Test sensory elements: Film a scene with real period smells (like candle wax or horse manure) to see how it affects the mood.
Why Audiences Are Divided—and What’s Really at Stake
Not everyone embraces this shift. Critics argue that hyper-realistic grooming distracts from storytelling, while others call it “historical purism” taken too far. But the debate reveals deeper questions:
The Case for Authenticity
1. Historical Respect: Audiences deserve to see accurate representations of the past, not modern fantasies. As Fennell put it, “If we’re going to tell stories about the past, we owe it to those people to get it right.”
2. Cultural Sensitivity: Misrepresentations (like blackface or exoticized costumes) can perpetuate harmful stereotypes. Authenticity forces creators to research, not assume.
The Case for Cinematic Freedom
1. Artistic License: Some argue that beauty and drama are universal—why should a 19th-century heroine look like a modern influencer? Directors like Guillermo del Toro have defended fantasy elements in historical films as a way to elevate emotion.
2. Accessibility: Overly realistic details (like body hair) can feel alienating to audiences accustomed to Hollywood glamour. The challenge is balancing authenticity with engagement.
The solution? Hybrid storytelling. Films like The Northman (2022) blend mythic grandeur with historical grit, proving that authenticity and artistry aren’t mutually exclusive. The key is intentionality: Every “uncomfortable” choice should serve a narrative or thematic purpose.
What’s Next? 5 Trends Shaping the Future of Historical Storytelling
1. The “Dirty Realism” Movement
Expect more films to embrace messiness—think unwashed hair, stained clothing, and realistic aging. The #DirtyHistory trend on social media is pushing creators to reject the “period drama glow-up.”
2. AI-Assisted Historical Reconstruction
AI tools are now being used to recreate lost historical artifacts (like 18th-century makeup or medieval textiles) with uncanny accuracy. Studios may soon offer “historical accuracy packages” for filmmakers.
3. Interactive Historical Experiences
Virtual reality (VR) and immersive theater are letting audiences step into historical settings with sensory feedback. Imagine a VR Wuthering Heights where you can smell the peat smoke and feel the rough wool of Cathy’s dress.
4. The Rise of “Anti-Heroines” in History
Audiences are craving flawed, humanized historical figures. Films like The Woman King (2022) and Barbie (2023) prove that imperfections make characters relatable. Future projects may focus on real women who were erased from history—like scientists, rebels, or laborers.
5. The “Unfilmable” Becomes Filmmable
Directors are now tackling taboo or “unfilmable” subjects from history, such as:
- Women’s health in the Victorian era (e.g., childbirth, menstruation).
- Class struggles (e.g., the stink of poverty in 19th-century slums).
- Sexuality (e.g., same-sex relationships in ancient Rome).
Films like The Power of the Dog (2021) show that dark, uncomfortable truths can be powerful storytelling.
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Historical Authenticity in Film
Why do modern audiences react so strongly to “unshaven” historical characters?
Our brains are wired to associate smooth skin with safety and beauty. Studies in psychology show that symmetry and lack of “imperfections” trigger subconscious trust. When we see a historical figure with body hair, it challenges our comfort zone, forcing us to confront realism over fantasy.
Can historical accuracy kill a film’s box office success?
Not necessarily. Dunkirk (2017) proved that gritty realism can be commercially successful if the storytelling is compelling. However, overdoing it (e.g., no makeup, no costumes) can alienate casual viewers. The key is strategic realism—using selective details to enhance the narrative.
How can indie filmmakers achieve historical authenticity on a budget?
1. Thrift stores and flea markets are goldmines for period clothing and props. 2. Digital tools like Blender or Unreal Engine can age actors realistically without expensive makeup. 3. Collaborate with local history buffs—many amateur historians love sharing their collections for free. 4. Use practical effects (e.g., food stains, dirt) instead of CGI.
Will we ever see a “perfectly accurate” historical film?
No—and that’s the point. History is subjective, and every film is an interpretation. Even documentaries make editorial choices. The goal isn’t perfection but intentionality. As Fennell says, “If you’re telling a story, you’re already lying a little. The question is, what truth are you serving?”
What Do You Think?
Should historical films prioritize authenticity or cinematic appeal? Would you watch a period drama where the lead character never shaves? Drop your thoughts in the comments—or share your favorite historically accurate film below!
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