Contents
The Background Story
The Royal Tenenbaums is a classic American comedy-drama film, directed by Wes Anderson, that was released in 2001. The film follows the lives of the dysfunctional Tenenbaum family, consisting of three siblings, their mother, and their estranged father, Royal Tenenbaum, who tries to reunite with his family. One of the most iconic features of the film is the zebra wallpaper that adorns the Tenenbaum’s house. The wallpaper is featured prominently throughout the film, and it has become a pop culture icon that has been referenced in various movies and TV shows.
The Inspiration
The zebra wallpaper was actually inspired by a real-life wallpaper that Wes Anderson’s friend’s parents had in their house. Anderson saw the wallpaper and loved it so much that he decided to use it in the film. In an interview with The New York Times, Anderson said, “I was at my friend’s house, and I saw this wallpaper, and I thought, ‘That is the greatest wallpaper I’ve ever seen. I have to put that in a movie.’”
The Design
The zebra wallpaper was designed by artist and illustrator Mark Alan Stamaty, who was commissioned by Wes Anderson to create a unique design for the film. Stamaty’s design features a repeating pattern of black and white zebras on a beige background. The design perfectly captures the quirky and eccentric style of the Tenenbaum family and adds a touch of whimsy to their home.
The Legacy
The zebra wallpaper has become a beloved pop culture icon that has been referenced in various movies and TV shows. It has also inspired a range of merchandise, including t-shirts, posters, and even wallpaper. In 2023, more than two decades after the film’s release, the zebra wallpaper is still as popular as ever. It has become a symbol of the film’s unique and quirky style and a must-have for any fan of The Royal Tenenbaums.
The Popularity
The popularity of the zebra wallpaper can be attributed to its unique design and its association with the beloved film. The wallpaper has become a symbol of the film’s eccentric and offbeat style, and it has become a must-have for any fan of Wes Anderson’s work. The zebra wallpaper has also become a popular choice for interior designers who want to add a touch of whimsy and fun to their designs.
The Controversy
Despite its popularity, the zebra wallpaper has also been the subject of controversy. Some critics have accused the film of perpetuating a colonialist and racist trope by using zebras as a decoration. However, others argue that the wallpaper is simply a playful and whimsical design that has no deeper meaning or intention.
The Impact
Regardless of the controversy surrounding it, the zebra wallpaper has had a significant impact on popular culture. It has become a symbol of the unique and eccentric style of The Royal Tenenbaums and has inspired countless imitations and tributes. The zebra wallpaper has also become a beloved feature of the film, and it has helped to establish The Royal Tenenbaums as a cult classic that is still beloved by audiences today.
The Merchandise
The popularity of the zebra wallpaper has also led to a range of merchandise inspired by the film. Fans can now purchase t-shirts, posters, and even wallpaper featuring the iconic design. The merchandise has become a must-have for any fan of the film, and it has helped to keep the legacy of The Royal Tenenbaums alive more than two decades after its release.
The Conclusion
The zebra wallpaper is more than just a decoration in The Royal Tenenbaums. It has become a beloved pop culture icon that has inspired countless imitations and tributes. The wallpaper perfectly captures the unique and eccentric style of the Tenenbaum family, and it has helped to establish The Royal Tenenbaums as a cult classic that is still beloved by audiences today. Despite the controversy surrounding it, the zebra wallpaper remains a beloved feature of the film, and it will continue to be a must-have for any fan of Wes Anderson’s work.