In the world of fashion and entertainment, few names conjure the same level of nostalgia and admiration as Claudia Schiffer. Known as one of the iconic ‘90s supermodels, Schiffer’s illustrious career on the catwalk catapulted her to international fame and solidified her status as an icon of style and grace. However, as the decades unfolded, Schiffer’s journey transcended the confines of the runway, leading her to explore new realms of creativity and collaboration.
One such venture finds Schiffer stepping into the role of Executive Producer for the film Argylle, which launched globally on February 2. Argylle described by Schiffer in three words as a “fun, spy comedy,” promises to captivate audiences with its thrilling storyline and star-studded cast including Dua Lipa, Henry Caville and John Cena. For Schiffer, the transition from modelling to film production has been a natural evolution, rooted in her deep appreciation for art and visual storytelling. “Film and fashion are connected, both visual worlds,” she asserts, emphasising the seamless fusion of these creative realms.
Yet, amid her professional endeavours, Schiffer remains grounded, finding joy in sharing moments with her beloved pet, Chip. From attending red carpet events to embarking on global adventures, Chip has become an integral part of Schiffer’s world, even penning his memoir detailing his rise to fame.
Can you tell us about your role as Executive Producer for Argylle?
I love being behind the scenes because I can focus on the fashion and beauty connections to the films my husband makes. I also love the many partnerships that are created for each film, with a lot of them having years of success! Such as Mr Porter for the Kingsman luxury menswear brand, in its very successful 18th collection now, Statesman whiskey (the fastest selling bourbon in the US), Jaeger le Coultre watches and Mont Blanc collaborations, which sell out quickly.
Claudia Schiffer, Dua Lipa, Bryce Dallas Howard and Ariana DeBose attend the World premiere of Argylle
Can you describe Argylle in three words?
A fun, spy comedy.
Did you face any challenges during production? If so, how did you overcome them?
There was another cat originally on the film set, but he turned out to be a terrible actor. He was quickly replaced by our family cat Chip, turning him swiftly into a nepo-cat.
Since being in the film he has become buddies with his co-stars Henry Cavill, Dua Lipa and Bryce Dallas Howard, and his ego has become insufferable.
I hardly see Chip these days; between FaceGym and Paw-lates sessions, getting ready for his appearance at the World Premiere, he has no time for me lately.
What is the best part about working with your partner, director Matthew Vaughn?
We work very well together; we love learning from each other’s skill sets.
Modelling often involves collaboration, but film production is a collaborative effort on a different scale. How has the collaborative aspect differed for you in these two creative realms?
It’s been a natural transition for me into film – art has always held a significant place within our family. I would say that film and fashion are connected, both visual worlds.
Claudia Schiffer and Henry Cavill on stage during the World premiere of Argylle
How was Chip’s first red carpet?
He loved it! He has also written a memoir (!) that follows his slightly delusional adventures on a global tour of the fashion and film worlds, as his star ascends. His journey takes him from cat-naps at Claridge’s to cocktails at Cannes, with pit stops at the Monaco Grand Prix and Met Gala along the way. (In case you are wondering who Chip is, he plays Alfie in my husband Matthew Vaughn’s latest film Argylle, starring with Henry Cavill, Dua Lipa and Bryce Dallas Howard.)
Comment from Chip directly: “It’s rather annoying when your only claim to fame is being Claudia Schiffer’s cat.” He added, “My autobiography is the story of how a supernova feline finally escapes a Supermodel’s shadow and onto the big screen in Matthew Vaughn’s new film Argylle.
Editor
Vogue Hong Kong
