Questions
Where did Derek Zoolander come from?
A skit Ben Stiller created for the 1996 VH1 Fashion Awards, later developed into short films and then the movie.
How did the character get his name?
Director Russell Bates coined Zoolander while editing the first short, mashing up two real Calvin Klein models: Mark Vanderloo and Johnny Zander.
Who made Zoolander?
Ben Stiller directed, co-wrote, co-produced, and starred as Derek. It was released September 28, 2001, by Paramount.
Was Owen Wilson the first choice for Hansel?
Yes, though they held auditions because his availability was uncertain at the time.
Did David Bowie really appear?
Yes, as himself, judging the walk-off. He called the script an absolute hoot.
What is Blue Steel?
Derek’s signature look, which is basically identical to all his other looks. That is the whole joke.
What is Derelicte?
Mugatu’s fashion line in the film, a parody of a real 2000 John Galliano collection inspired by the clothing of homeless people.
Was there a famous improvised moment?
Yes. Stiller blanked on his line and ad-libbed But why male models?, and David Duchovny stayed in character to answer it.
What is the plot?
A famous but dim male model is brainwashed by fashion mogul Jacobim Mugatu to carry out an assassination.
Who stars in it?
Ben Stiller as Derek, Owen Wilson as rival model Hansel, Will Ferrell as Mugatu, and Christine Taylor as Matilda.
How did it do at the box office?
On a 28 million dollar budget it grossed about 60.8 million worldwide, opening to 15.5 million.
How was it received?
Mixed at first, around 64 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and a C-plus CinemaScore, then it grew into a comedy cult favorite.
Did Zoolander have a comeback?
Yes. A sequel arrived in 2016, and old clips went viral on TikTok in late 2022, bringing in a new wave of fans.
