The 65th Academy Award for Best Makeup was awarded to Greg Cannom, Michele Burke, and Matthew W. Mungle for their groundbreaking work on the dark comedy, Death Becomes Her. Their innovative use of practical effects, particularly in portraying the grotesque consequences of immortal beauty, captivated audiences and solidified the film’s place in cinematic history.
A Celebration of Practical Magic: Death Becomes Her and its Award-Winning Makeup
“Death Becomes Her,” directed by Robert Zemeckis, is more than just a darkly humorous film; it’s a testament to the power of practical effects. In an era increasingly dominated by CGI, the film’s reliance on tangible, physical transformations was not only refreshing but also a key factor in its critical and commercial success. The makeup team, led by Greg Cannom, faced the daunting task of visually representing the decaying, yet immortal, bodies of Madeline Ashton (Meryl Streep) and Helen Sharp (Goldie Hawn). They had to convince viewers that these glamorous actresses could sustain injuries and deformities that would normally be fatal, all while maintaining a semblance of their former selves.
The team achieved this through a combination of latex prosthetics, intricate paint techniques, and masterful sculpting. Meryl Streep’s character, Madeline, famously features a large hole in her stomach after being shot with a shotgun. This iconic image was created using a layered prosthetic that allowed Streep to move realistically while maintaining the shocking illusion. Goldie Hawn’s character, Helen, suffers a broken neck, requiring her to adopt a series of contorted poses. This was achieved through strategic makeup application, body casts, and careful choreography.
The success of the makeup in “Death Becomes Her” lies in its realism and believability. While the concept of immortal beauty is inherently fantastical, the makeup made the consequences feel strikingly real. This realism elevated the film beyond simple slapstick and allowed it to explore deeper themes of vanity, aging, and the price of eternal youth. The award for Best Makeup at the 65th Academy Awards was a well-deserved recognition of the team’s artistry and technical skill in bringing this darkly comedic vision to life. The award cemented the film’s position as a masterpiece of practical effects and a reminder of the power of makeup artistry in storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the 65th Academy Award for Best Makeup
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the significance and details surrounding the award and the film itself.
H3: What other films were nominated for Best Makeup at the 65th Academy Awards?
Besides “Death Becomes Her,” two other films were nominated for Best Makeup: “Batman Returns” and “Hoffa.” Both films showcased remarkable makeup artistry, with “Batman Returns” featuring stunning prosthetic designs for The Penguin (Danny DeVito) and “Hoffa” employing age makeup to depict Jack Nicholson’s character across several decades. The competition was fierce, demonstrating a strong year for makeup in cinema.
H3: Who is Greg Cannom and what is his significance in the world of makeup artistry?
Greg Cannom is a highly respected and prolific makeup artist with an extensive filmography. He has won multiple Academy Awards and has been nominated numerous times. His work spans a wide range of genres, including horror, science fiction, and comedy. Cannom is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his innovative use of materials and techniques. His contributions have significantly shaped the field of makeup artistry and have inspired countless artists.
H3: What specific makeup techniques were used to create the hole in Madeline Ashton’s stomach?
The iconic hole in Meryl Streep’s stomach was achieved using a multi-layered prosthetic. A custom body cast was created of Streep, allowing the team to sculpt a realistic and anatomically accurate “wound.” The prosthetic consisted of layers of latex, foam latex, and silicone, carefully painted to create the illusion of depth and texture. The edges of the prosthetic were blended seamlessly with Streep’s skin using makeup and adhesives. During filming, Streep had to maintain a specific posture to accentuate the effect.
H3: How did the makeup team create Goldie Hawn’s broken neck effect?
Creating the illusion of Goldie Hawn’s broken neck involved a combination of factors. Firstly, Hawn underwent a full body cast to precisely replicate her posture and form. Makeup artists then applied extensive makeup to her neck and shoulders to create the appearance of unnatural angles and contortions. Finally, Hawn’s own physical performance was crucial. She had to maintain a specific series of poses and movements that emphasized the broken neck effect. Lighting and camera angles also played a significant role in enhancing the illusion.
H3: How long did it take to apply the makeup for Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn each day?
The application of makeup for both Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn was a time-consuming process, often taking several hours each day. The complex prosthetics and intricate paint techniques required a significant amount of skill and precision. The exact time varied depending on the specific scenes being filmed and the extent of the required makeup. However, it is safe to say that both actresses spent a considerable amount of time in the makeup chair.
H3: What made the makeup in “Death Becomes Her” stand out compared to other films of that era?
Several factors contributed to the unique impact of the makeup in “Death Becomes Her.” First and foremost, the reliance on practical effects in an era increasingly dominated by CGI gave the film a unique and tangible feel. Secondly, the makeup was not just about creating grotesque images; it was about enhancing the characters and their stories. The makeup served to highlight the vanity and desperation of the characters, adding depth and complexity to their performances. Finally, the sheer quality and artistry of the makeup were undeniable.
H3: Did the makeup artists use any special materials or technologies that were particularly innovative at the time?
The makeup team utilized a variety of advanced materials and techniques for the time. This included the use of silicone prosthetics, which were becoming increasingly popular for their realistic appearance and durability. They also employed advanced painting techniques to create subtle variations in skin tone and texture. The team was also adept at sculpting, creating realistic and expressive prosthetics that seamlessly blended with the actors’ features.
H3: How did winning the Oscar affect Greg Cannom’s career?
Winning the Oscar for “Death Becomes Her” significantly boosted Greg Cannom’s career. It brought him widespread recognition and solidified his reputation as one of the leading makeup artists in the industry. Following the win, Cannom continued to work on a string of high-profile films, further establishing his legacy. He is one of the most celebrated and sought-after makeup artists in Hollywood.
H3: Was there any controversy surrounding the “Death Becomes Her” makeup, either during production or after the film’s release?
While the makeup in “Death Becomes Her” was generally praised, some critics questioned whether the film’s reliance on grotesque imagery detracted from its overall message. Others felt that the makeup, while technically impressive, was sometimes too distracting. However, these criticisms were relatively minor, and the overwhelming response to the makeup was positive. There were no significant controversies surrounding the production or release of the film related to the makeup.
H3: How much of the film’s visual effects were practical, and how much were CGI?
“Death Becomes Her” is notable for its heavy reliance on practical effects. While CGI was used to enhance certain shots and create subtle effects, the majority of the visual effects, including the iconic hole in Madeline’s stomach and Helen’s broken neck, were achieved through practical makeup and prosthetics. This commitment to practical effects is what gives the film its unique and enduring appeal.
H3: How can aspiring makeup artists learn the techniques used in “Death Becomes Her”?
Aspiring makeup artists can learn the techniques used in “Death Becomes Her” through a variety of resources. Studying the work of Greg Cannom and his team is a good starting point. Many film schools and makeup academies offer courses in prosthetic makeup, sculpting, and painting techniques. Online tutorials and workshops can also provide valuable insights. Additionally, analyzing behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the makeup artists can offer a deeper understanding of their process.
H3: Is “Death Becomes Her” still considered a benchmark for makeup artistry in film?
Yes, “Death Becomes Her” is widely considered a benchmark for makeup artistry in film. Its innovative use of practical effects, combined with its compelling story and memorable characters, has made it a classic. The film continues to inspire and influence makeup artists today, serving as a reminder of the power and artistry of practical effects. The Oscar win solidified its place in cinematic history as a testament to the brilliance of its makeup team.