Makeup and Prosthetics in Movies: Top 10 Transformations
Movies have always been a source of entertainment and inspiration for people around the world. The film industry has evolved over the years, improving at a rapid pace with each passing day. One of the most crucial elements of making a successful movie is the use of makeup and prosthetics. These two aspects are essential for filmmakers to create a character that feels authentic and real to the audience. Improper use of makeup and prosthetics can ruin a film, while the right use can transform even the most ordinary characters into extraordinary ones.
In this article, we take a look at the top 10 makeup and prosthetic transformations in movies history.
10. Beetlejuice (1988)
Directed by Tim Burton, Beetlejuice is a dark comedy that tells the story of a couple who seek the help of the living world after they pass away. Micheal Keaton delivered a remarkable performance as the mischievous and ghostly title character, Beetlejuice. The makeup team’s effort in creating the spooky look for Beetlejuice was recognized by the Academy Awards for Best Makeup and Hairstyling.
9. The Elephant Man (1980)
The Elephant Man, directed by David Lynch, was based on the true story of Joseph Merrick, a severely deformed man in 19th-century England. The film starred John Hurt and Anthony Hopkins, and their performances were captivating. The makeup team’s work, which crafted the grotesque look of Merrick, was the icing on the cake that made this movie so unforgettable.
8. The Fly (1986)
Directed by David Cronenberg, The Fly tells the story of a scientist, played by Jeff Goldblum, who accidentally transforms himself into a human-fly hybrid. The makeup team’s transformation of Jeff Goldblum’s character in the film’s climax was nothing short of a masterpiece, earning them an Academy Award for Best Makeup.
7. The Nutty Professor (1996)
The Nutty Professor is a classic comedy film directed by Tom Shadyac, starring Eddie Murphy. The film explores the life of Sherman Klump, an overweight professor who creates a serum that enhances human abilities, including his own, but also has a few side effects. The makeup transformation of Eddie Murphy, who played seven different characters in the film, was a monumental achievement, earning the team an Academy Award.
6. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
Mrs. Doubtfire was a hit comedy film directed by Chris Columbus, starring Robin Williams. The film tells the story of a father who, after a divorce, dresses up as a nanny so he can spend time with his children. The makeup team’s transformation of Robin Williams into Mrs. Doubtfire was a technical wonder that earned the team an Academy Award.
5. Darkest Hour (2017)
Darkest Hour, directed by Joe Wright, is a historical drama that tells the story of Winston Churchill’s early days as Great Britain’s Prime Minister during World War II. Gary Oldman’s transformation into Churchill through makeup and prosthetics was flawless and brought Churchill’s character to life. The makeup team won an Academy Award for their exceptional work in bringing the British leader to life.
4. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)
Pan’s Labyrinth is a fantasy drama directed by Guillermo del Toro that tells the story of a young girl named Ofelia who escapes to a fantasy world to avoid the harsh realities of her life. The makeup team’s work in creating the fantasy creatures, especially the faun, was a visual spectacle that earned an Academy Award for Best Makeup.
3. The Exorcist (1973)
The Exorcist still stands as one of the most frightening horror films in history. Directed by William Friedkin, it tells the story of a young girl possessed by a demon. The makeup team’s effort in creating the disturbing appearance of the possessed girl was a monumental achievement and made the movie one that still terrifies audiences to this day.
2. The Dark Knight (2008)
The Dark Knight is a superhero film directed by Christopher Nolan, starring the late Heath Ledger as the Joker. Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker was masterful, and the makeup and prosthetics team’s effort in creating the iconic look of the character cannot be overstated. Ledger posthumously won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, while the makeup team won for Best Makeup.
1. The Whale (2022)
The Whale is a drama film directed by Darren Aronofsky, starring Brendan Fraser. The film tells the story of a man named Charlie who has become obese, as he tries to reconcile with his estranged daughter. The makeup and prosthetics team’s transformation of Brendan Fraser into the character of Charlie was remarkable, making him virtually unrecognizable onscreen. The makeup team received an Academy Award for their work, while Brendan Fraser received the Best Actor award for his captivating performance.
Conclusion
Makeup and prosthetics are essential components of filmmaking, allowing actors to portray characters in a way that makes them seem real and authentic. The movies on this list have proved how effective makeup and prosthetics can be in transforming an actor’s appearance to bring a character to life. From David Lynch’s monstrous Elephant Man to Brendan Fraser’s impressive transformation in The Whale, these films have set a high bar for the use of makeup and prosthetics in movies.
