NARRATOR:
The sketches on this wall were ideas for the look of Edna Mode, better known simply as “E” – the diminutive designer who creates costumes for superheroes in The Incredibles.
Brad Bird wrote and directed the movie:
BRAD BIRD:
E is a character who has never known a moment of doubt in her whole life. And, I have a little bit of that in me at times. And I like it when I have that in me. (Laughs) She is the only one who really unbalances the super heroes.
We knew that her style had to be somewhat eccentric, and possibly severe. But we ended up making her too dowdy, or too harsh, so that she didn't appear to be somebody who was fun to be around. So we went for something that was stylish and very simple. Black always looks good. And it goes great with her hair. So, you put that with big, black glasses, and it makes a very striking statement.
NARRATOR:
That’s the final E at the far left end of this wall.
BRAD BIRD: Many people have mentioned that the character reminds them of Edith Head, that famous Hollywood costume designer. But there were many inspirations.
NARRATOR:
Still, Brad knew instinctively how E sounded.
BRAD BIRD: And I would find myself drifting into this voice, you know. And I would say, ‘She's someone who would kind of stand like this, don't you know.’ And I think that the voice, in a weird way, influenced what they ended up drawing.
NARRATOR:
Brad, who did E’s voice in the film, was delighted when designers around the world adopted her as a kind of mascot. Or, as E herself might say:
BRAD BIRD: Darling, it has been a pleasure.
