Spielberg's War Horse: First Trailer Arrives | Clothes on Film

The first trailer for director Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of War Horse has arrived online. It is only two minutes long so there is not much to see, but see it you should because it looks sumptuous.

War Horse is based on Michael Morpurgo’s novel of the same name about a young Englishman’s bond with a horse during the First World War. The horse itself comes into contact with many characters and events throughout the story including serving in the British Calvary and befriending a French farmer. The screenplay is by Richard Curtis and Lee Hall, with some of the less abstract elements of Nick Stafford’s stageplay apparently remaining.

Long time Spielberg collaborator Joanna Johnston is responsible for War Horse’s costume design. Having costumed Saving Private Ryan (1998) and Valkyrie (2008), among many others, she is experienced in historical re-enactment and often works closely with military advisors. Frankly there is little of the costumes in this first teaser; focal point is the horse. Apart from military uniforms it will be interesting to see Johnston’s approach to early 1900s attire in rural England when the more detailed trailers show up.

War Horse starring David Thewlis, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jeremy Irvine and Emily Watson is due for release on 13th January 2012. You will just have time to get over Christmas.