Look Behind The Look

You may think that we have already covered The Substance enough for the next 10 years… but I wanted to have Frédérique Aguello on the show because believe it or not… there were still some questions that I had. I also wanted to bluntly ask her about the awards process and find out more about why she was on stage for the BAFTA acceptance, but was absent for the Oscar win. In fact, her name was not even on the ballot… In addition to speaking to me about her inspiration and process on The Substance, we get into the complete process of award submissions and what happened specifically in this case which led to Fred being absent from the Oscar ceremony. Enjoy this episode and be sure to weigh in below.31:50 Oscar contraversyWatch The SubstanceInterview With Marilyne Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

BAFTA winner and Oscar Nominee Marilyne Scarselli speaks with me about her work on the hair and makeup team of The Substance. From Golum to Requiem For A Dream, hear from Scarselli what inspired the work in this unforgettable film, and learn about working with Demi Moore, SFX designer Pierre Olivier Persin and director Coralie Farageat on the film that would earn her her first BAFTA and Oscar nominations.Use this link to watch THE SUBSTANCE on MUBI for free Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Look Behind The Look, we dive into the hauntingly beautiful world of Nosferatu with the Oscar-nominated hair and makeup team: Traci Loader, David White, and Suzanne Stokes Munton. Under the masterful direction of Robert Eggers, this film artfully blends gothic romance with chilling horror, captivating audiences with its mesmerizing visuals and intricate character designs. Join us as we explore the creative process behind the film’s stunning aesthetics, from the realistic prosthetics to the romantic yet terrifying blood effects. The team shares their experiences in crafting the iconic looks, including the enigmatic mustache that sparked curiosity and the chilling eye effects that have left viewers spellbound. We discuss the challenges faced during production, such as maintaining realism in the film's black-and-white aesthetic and the meticulous planning that went into each character’s transformation. Tracy, David, and Suzanne reveal the secrets behind Willem Dafoe's dusty, unkempt look and Nicholas Hoult's gradual deterioration throughout the film, showcasing their dedication to authenticity. Get ready for an in-depth look at the artistry involved in creating a film that transcends traditional horror, merging beauty and terror into a compelling narrative. If you haven't seen Nosferatu yet, prepare to be enchanted and frightened in equal measure. 00:00:00 Welcome to Look Behind The Look 00:03:15 Meet the Oscar-nominated hair and makeup team 00:08:30 Crafting Willem Dafoe’s unique character 00:09:30 Nicholas Hoult's transformation journey 00:20:25 Crafting Willem Dafoe’s unique character 00:25:10 Nicholas Hoult's transformation journey 00:10:35 The mesmerizing eye effects of Lily Rose Depp 00:12:34 The biggest challenge on set 00:14:25 Oh, RATS! 00:15:40 That final scene... 00:16:45 How were Lily's convulsions and eye rolls achieved and testing Lily's wigs. Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Known for her stunning work on iconic series MAD MEN and her Emmy Award Winning work on Deadwood, Janie shares her journey from a childhood surrounded by textiles to crafting unforgettable looks for the hit show 1923. Discover how family influences shaped her career, the creative process behind designing period costumes, and the challenges of dressing 5,000 extras. Janie reflects on her favorite characters to design for, the importance of authenticity, and the emotional journey of her latest projects. *Weird, wild episode treat? Listen details about for Janie’s love for socks. Yes, SOCKS:) 00:00 Welcome! 01:24 Janie Bryant on her family upbringing in the world of textiles 04:05 Janie's surprising passion for women's business suites! 07:06 The beauty of creating with the show creators 11:29 All things Deadwood 12:00 All things Mad Men 15:28 Janie's favorite characters to design for on Mad Men 17:27 All things 1923 But wait! There's more... Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Step behind the scenes of Apple TV’s hit series "The Studio" in this special 2025 Emmy-Nominees episode of Look Behind the Look! Host Tiffany Bartok sits down with Emmy-nominated costume designer Kameron Lennox to uncover the creative process, inspirations, and secrets behind the show’s unforgettable looks. Discover how Kameron collaborates with stars like Seth Rogen, Catherine O’Hara, and Katheryn Hahn, crafts character-defining wardrobes, and brings unexpected Hollywood glamour into the modern era. A deep dive into the artistry of costume design, this episode is a must-listen for fans of film, television, and style. Don’t miss your chance to learn what it takes to create award-worthy costumes and iconic on-screen moments!For more, check out the Look Behind the Look episode on The Studio’s Hair and Makeup Design with myself, Jorgee Douglass and Vanessa Price.0:00 Introduction to Look Behind the Look 1:58 Meeting Cameron Lennox 3:47 Cameron's History with Seth Rogen 7:22 Cameron's Hollywood Connection 8:59 Development of The Studio 12:07 Film Noir Episode Discussion 15:23 Seth Rogen's Costume Design 17:35 Catherine O'Hara's Character Style 20:38 Katherine Hahn's Character Design 26:06 Quinn's Character Development and Wardrobe 33:16 Closing RemarksWatch The Studio Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

It's Season 4 of Abbott Elementary, and Moira Frazier is going for her third Emmy Nomination. I had her back for a third time to discuss, guinea pig wigs, Halloween Looks, and more.Quinta Brunson, Janelle James, Lisa Ann Walter, Sheryl Lee Ralph all have stories to tell through their hairstyles and Moira talks about their evolution with me. Moira earned two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Contemporary Hairstyling in 2023 and 2024. Her work on the show also earned her two Hollywood Makeup Artist and Hair Stylist Guild Awards for Best Contemporary Hairstyling. Enjoy our chat about the show, the cast and the industry as we manifest that 3rd nomination- happy voting! Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Hello from the Tribeca Film Festival!While we can't show all the looks here on YouTube due to copyright, I'm still excited to share my interview, where I talk all things SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL with James Kaliardos, Miley Cyrus’ makeup artist. He's a legend in this industry and the founder and director of Visionaire. He carved out some time to talk about everything from their creative process to what it was like on set. I know you'll love to hear it all. To have been at the premiere of this creation was an otherworldly experience. It was an explosion of the senses to be sure. And to let us in on some of the behind-the-scenes stories, James is here to oblige. Enjoy!Something Beautiful ShowtimesJames Kaliardos IG Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

This is it, you guys.... This is the RAVEN episode! I was thrilled to find myself spending time with Raven to discuss the new season of "Touch Ups with Raven" premiering on WOW Presents Plus June 10. We delved into Raven's journey in the world of drag and makeup artistry. Raven's career began much earlier than her time on Drag Race, with a passion for makeup that sparked at a young age. Growing up in Victorville, California, captivated by the transformative power of makeup, experimenting with cosmetics... a star was born. This early fascination paved the way for a remarkable career that now includes working side by side with royalty- RuPaul. During our conversation, Raven shared the emotional experience of receiving the call to become RuPaul's personal makeup artist and we also learn the elements involved in the signature "Raven Beat". We also discussed the importance of energy matching in the makeup chair, highlighting how Raven and RuPaul create a comfortable and collaborative atmosphere. This synergy allows them to enjoy the process while achieving stunning results, demonstrating the significance of a positive working relationship in the beauty industry. As Raven prepares for the new season of "Touch Ups with Raven," we talked about the importance of continuous learning and experimentation in makeup artistry. Raven reminds us that aspiring artists need to embrace trial and error, as this is the key to finding one's unique style. With so much excitement surrounding Raven's work and the upcoming season, listeners are in for a treat. Join us as we celebrate the artistry of makeup and the vibrant world of drag. Be sure to catch the new season of "Touch Ups with Raven" on WOW Presents Plus! But wait! There's more... https://linktr.ee/lookbehindthelookWatch Touch Ups With Raven Season 2 Starting TODAY, June 10 on World of Wonder Plus Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

So... a couple of weeks ago, I was headed to a brand event with fellow makeup artist Eva Perry. It was for IT Cosmetics and I go more into detail about the event on my substack (hint... head there and hit subscribe- it's free) At the event, Jenna Bush Hager along with IT Cosmetics Global Makeup Coach Erica Taylor presented all the ways in which women do it all which launching the new IT Cosmetics Do It All Radiant Concealer. I noticed Erica and I squinting at each other that way you do when you recognize each other... finally we realized we worked together waaaaaay back when at Bloomingdale's of all places (children, there was a career path known as the "Counter Girl"... back then). Yes- Erica, though younger than I, was my trainer at the MAC Counter when we were just kids. I immediately invited her onto the podcast to fill me in on her AMAZING career and all that has happened since then, including gaining over 1 million followers on IG and more on TikTok. She also shares with me her IT Cosmetics faves and plently of those amazing tips that she is famous for. This is a really fun one, you guys. Enjoy! Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Look Behind The Look, we jump into the world of the hit Apple TV show, The Studio, featuring a star-studded cast including Seth Rogen, Catherine O'Hara, Bryan Cranston and Kathryn Hahn. The cameos are unreal with Zoe Kravitz giving an unexpectedly hilarious performance, and Dave Franco giving... well... an expectedly hilarious performance.Hair department head, Vanessa Price, and makeup department head, Jorgee Douglass share their creative insights and experiences from behind the scenes. From the impeccable costumes to the wild hair and makeup designs for Hahn and Cranston, they explore how the show's unique visual style enhances its comedic brilliance. It's a collaborative process that shaped the show, revealing how the creative team worked closely with the actors to craft memorable looks that reflect their characters.Jorgee and Vanessa discuss the challenges of creating hair and makeup that not only fit the narrative but also resonate with the audience. Each episode is it's own beast- and they certainly rise to each challenge. As they share about their experiences on set, it becomes clear that the magic of The Studio lies not just in its writing and performances, but also in the meticulous attention to detail in every look. Join us and don’t forget to share your favorite episodes in the comments! (I know it's a given that everyone's favorite was #2, but that finale!!!!! Wow!)But wait!There's more: https://linktr.ee/lookbehindthelook Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Look Behind The Look, my better half,Jayce Bartok, guest hosts and delves into the life and legacy of Cathryn Coulson, famously known as the Log Lady from David Lynch's Twin Peaks. Jayce shared with director Richard Green his experience watching the documentary I Know Cathryn the Log Lady, which paints a vivid portrait of her multifaceted life as an actress, camera operator, and a vibrant personality who faced her illness with unwavering commitment to her craft. Richard reveals the intricate journey of bringing Cathryn's story to the screen. From the challenges of navigating intense NDAs to capturing Cathryn's essence beyond her iconic role, Richard discusses the profound impact Cathryn had on those around her and the lessons he learned throughout the filmmaking process. Jayce and Richard discuss the emotional weight of Cathryn's final moments, her passion for performance, and the unique bond she shared with David Lynch as they worked together to create magic ...even in her last days. This episode is a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the indelible mark left by a beloved figure in television history. Learn More About the Film HERE (and check out the shop for cute merch!) Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome back to another bite-sized episode of Look Behind the Look. Today, we're back with another obscure cinema excavation exploring Spike Lee's 1996 film, Girl 6. The film offers a unique take on the world of phone sex operators through the eyes of an aspiring actress in New York City and, of course, so much more than that. We’ll explore how this film fell into obscurity...and the layered messages on race and female exploitation.Despite its ambitious narrative, the film received mixed reviews upon release and was a commercial disappointment, grossing approximately $4.9 million against a $12 million budget. Girl 6 was dismissed so hard when it came out; it's like it just vanished from Spike Lee's filmography. Reviewers like The Washington Post's Rita Kempley described it as "little more than a profane litany punctuated by Oscar-caliber orgasms," while the Post's Desson Howe stated that "it's enough to reduce expectations over him forever."Even when discussing He Got Game two years later, Spike wouldn't mention Girl 6…That's how much people sidelined it. It's wild because after Girl 6, Spike didn't make another film centered on a female perspective until Chi-Raq in 2015, almost 20 years later. You have to wonder if the reception to Girl 6 made Spike pull back from telling stories about women, especially Black women, navigating systems that weren't built for them. Girl 6 is one of Spike’s most overlooked films, but also one of the most fascinating. That’s exactly why it deserves a closer look behind the look.A Cultural ReassessmentIn 1996, people didn't know what to do with Girl 6. It barely made a dent at the box office, critics were lukewarm at best, and ultimately, it faded into obscurity. But here's the thing—Girl 6 wasn't a failure. It was a film about performance, sex, race, capitalism, and identity. It didn't fit the mold Hollywood—or even Spike Lee fans—wanted it to fit.This was Spike's first time directing a script he didn't write. The screenplay came from Pulitzer Prize-winner Suzan-Lori Parks, and what they created together was something totally different from the more straightforward sociopolitical narratives people had come to expect from Spike. Instead of overt protest, Girl 6 gives us a quiet, messy rebellion in the form of one Black woman trying to survive the film industry without selling her soul.Theresa Randle plays Judy, a struggling actress who ends up working as a phone sex operator to make ends meet. And that premise could've easily become male-gazey or exploitative in the wrong hands. But it doesn't. This is a story about the male gaze, not one that indulges it. The camera doesn't leer. It's observant. It's empathetic. It's watching Judy navigate objectification. Beyond general objectification, it shows how she manages which specific forms of objectification she subjugates herself to, like being told by her boss, Lil played by a perfectly cast, Hollywood legend, Jenifer Lewis, she needs to sound “Caucasian” on the phone, because that’s what “the client likes.”The film also drops in these surreal, meta moments that throw you off, especially the interspersed news storyline of the young black girl who survived falling down the elevator shaft in her building, but that's the point. It draws a direct line from girlhood to adulthood—how young Black girls are burdened from the start with invisibility, impossible standards, and stereotypes they’re expected to navigate alone just to survive. We see Judy auditioning for roles where she's told to be more "urban," more "real," while directors like Quentin Tarantino, in his now-infamous cameo, barks at Judy with lines laced in microaggressions that escalate—into full-blown aggression, unchecked racism, and flat-out exploitation as he demands she take her top off on camera. It’s violent in its familiarity. And that’s the point. Girl 6 doesn’t flinch—it forces us to sit in the discomfort, to confront how easily Black women are dehumanized under the guise of “opportunity.” This isn’t just a scene. It’s a reckoning that begins Judy’s arc. It’s Spike and Suzan-Lori Parks holding up a mirror and asking, ‘How many times has this happened—and how many times did we call it art?’ or better yet "This is what you do to Black women when you 'give them a chance.'"And that’s why the ending hits so hard. Because after everything—after all that growth and pain and disillusionment—it’s gutting to see Judy go back to Shoplifter. It’s framed like a reunion, maybe even a resolution—but it isn’t. It’s a return to something familiar. Something that once had control over her.And when she heads to L.A. for her so-called fresh start, she walks right into the same kind of exploitative audition that launched this whole journey. The loop restarts. But this time—she doesn’t freeze. She doesn’t stay quiet. She doesn’t submit. She assertively leaves. That moment shifts everything. Because even though the circumstances haven’t evolved, she has. It’s not loud. It’s not celebrated. But it’s powerful. It’s self-possession. It’s Judy refusing to play the part again, even if the script is exactly the same.So no, the ending isn’t tied up in a bow. But it’s not hopeless either. Girl 6 isn’t offering a fantasy of escape—it’s showing us what resistance looks like when the world and the people around you won’t meet you halfway. Quiet, deliberate, exhausted… but still yours.So why did Girl 6 flop? Because audiences weren't ready for a Black feminist art film disguised as a phone-sex dramedy. It didn't check the boxes. It wasn't "important" in how people expected a Spike Lee joint to be. The film's portrayal of Judy's experiences resonates with contemporary discussions about the empowerment and exploitation inherent in everything we've come to understand about performance, labor, and digital sex work (hello, OnlyFans), Girl 6 feels prophetic. In recent years, Girl 6 has been reassessed for its ahead-of-its-time commentary on sex work and female agency.It's time we stop calling it a misstep. Girl 6 didn't fail. We did—for not seeing what it was trying to show us. With all that said, I do still think it's worth critiquing how a man directing the film despite having a female screenwriter is a statement and impression in and of itself that is left upon this film, and that’s something we’re still unpacking today.The wigs, costuming, and futuristic sets are all intentional and impeccably designed. Judy is a chameleon, adapting to the fantasies projected onto her. She tries never to lose herself, but as the film progresses, it becomes a hard line to walk. And Randle does it brilliantly. Her performance is nuanced, internal, and often quiet—maybe that's why it got overlooked. People expected something louder. But Judy's strength is in her stillness. I paused the film so many times in awe, wondering - how we didn't get Theresa Randle leading dozens of films post-Girl 6. Her performance has always stuck with me. She is the film.Girl 6 is a wig-lover's dream. Theresa Randle wears over 20 different wigs and styles throughout the film, and each one feels like a window into her state of mind or her persona at that moment. Her hair isn’t just flair—it’s fashion, character, power, and commentary all in one.There's the long honey-blonde crop she rocks in the phone booth—classic "sex symbol" vibes and we see everything from her an ode to Dorothy Dandridge, bantu knots, finger waves, a full-on Foxy Brown afro—it's a whiplash of transformations that, if you blink, you might miss one. Her hair becomes armor, a mask, a performance. And what's genius is that the wigs and styling reflect the emotional tone of each scene without her having to say a word.It also speaks to the fantasy that phone sex work sells. Every call, every client, is a role she steps into. And Theresa's ever-changing look mirrors that idea—who she is depends entirely on who's on the other end of the line and what they're paying for.Plus, let's give some flowers to the hairstyling team. There is not much information out there about who exactly was responsible. I tried to get in touch with Lisa Hazell, but could not reach her for an interview. The hair designs gave Theresa an entire visual vocabulary of Black femininity, expression, power, seduction, and identity.Theresa Randle played Judy, the lead role. Before this, Randle had appeared in supporting roles in Lee's "Jungle Fever" and "Malcolm X." Her performance as Judy marked her first leading role, showcasing her range and depth as an actress.And while a lot of this film wasn't exactly the norm for Spike, he still had a role, as he often does—but this time, it feels especially personal. He plays Judy's cousin and best friend, Jimmy, a comic book nerd obsessed with blaxploitation and sports memorabilia. It's sweet and totally feels like a little bit of an opportunity for Spike to get all his Brooklyn Dodgers gear into the production design. He's one of the only people in her life who doesn't sexualize Judy, who just wants to hang out and talk about old-school movies. It’s giving Letterboxd boyfriend energy… uh if your boyfriend was your cousin and just wanted to debate Pam Grier films over pizza. Their friendship grounds the film, a reminder of who Judy is underneath all the wigs and roleplay.The opposite of Jimmy is Isaiah Washington’s character—Judy’s ex, known only as “Shoplifter.” And that name alone tells you everything. He’s not even given the dignity of a real identity—just a label, a behavior, a red flag. He’s controlling in the way so many men are: smiling, supportive on the surface, but constantly trying to reshape her into someone more manageable. He pushes her to get a “real job,” but what he really wants is her dependence. He wants her small.The tension between them is always there—quiet, but constant. And the way Spike shoots those scenes, you can feel the power imbalance. It’s intimate, but it’s not safe. These aren’t just moments between two people with history. These are scenes ab

Mike Marino talks with me about working with director Aaron Schimberg, and actors Sebastian Stan and Adam Pearson to create one of the year’s most memorable creations in film.In this episode, we discuss more than just his process and techniques. We actually dove into philosophical implications of body image, the marketing of body horror, the genius of David Lynch, and a lot more. Mike offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of prosthetics and its impact on storytelling. Tune in for a conversation that not only highlights the technical aspects of his craft but also the emotional depth that drives his work.WATCH A Different Man Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Where were you when you first saw the most expensive NC-17 Film ever made? Have you seen it since? What is your relationship with this iconic box office disaster? In this Bite-Sized Episode we examine SHOWGIRLS and celebrate Elizabeth Berkley’s strength despite it’s devastating reception. Even The Academy has come around to acknowledge this film’s place in our pop culture history. Enjoy this look back into the film that is a delicious disaster and let me know about your experience with SHOWGIRLS.0:00 Hi! 0:53 Hair, Makeup and Costumes of SHOWGIRLS 3:19 The push and pull of Showgirls 4:06 The Backlash 5:45 Gina Ravera and her negative personal experience on set 7:16 Tropes and Colorism in SHOWGIRLS 9:52 Justice for SHOWGIRLS- how the film found success through Camp and triumphed on Home VideoAlso: See below for a link to the documentary YOU DON’T NOMI for more!Watch SHOWGIRLSWatch the documentary YOU DON’T NOMI Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

We came to SXSW this year to cover all things beauty, exciting brand partnerships, and of course, film. But this year was extra special because Look Behind the Look had the opportunity to spotlight The Florist, a new film WE are producing and so excited to share about. The Florist written by Jayce Bartok tells the untold true story of Vivien Leigh’s later years as she battles Bipolar disorder and builds a very special relationship with a local florist. Starring Carla Gugino as Vivien, the film explores artistry, human connection, and the tension between her brilliance and the turmoil surrounding her struggles. We are gearing up to begin production this spring in Philadelphia. We have an incredible team behind the film and our powerhouse producer Lauren Hale Rieckhoff was invited to speak about The Florist at the Keystone House as part of the Amplify Philly: Behind the Lens – Pennsylvania Filmmakers in Focus panel. Armed with posters, postcards, and a mission, it was an amazing afternoon sharing the film alongside other celebrated indie filmmakers. Gino Pesi hosted the discussion, which covered Pennsylvania’s commitment to filmmakers, its production incentives, and why we chose to shoot in Philly. Lauren shared our journey, what’s next, and most importantly, how people can get involved to help bring this film to life. Edit: Kelli Reillyhttps://www.vinylfoote.com/the-florist-film Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Heathers is an undeniable classic. We take a look at the creative elements that came together to bring us the first and arguably the best Mean Girls, and the first appearance of the ultimate bad boy that you have to fight everything to resist. Before toxic relationships became an overused phrase, we had Veronica and JD. Unfortunately, the plot of Heathers has become all too real, but the film is still a favorite of Gen X, and here, we try to explain why to the following generations who deem it to be straight up offensive. HEATHERS (1988) Director: Michael Lehmann Writer: Daniel Waters Starring: Winona Ryder, Christian Slater, Shannen Doherty, Lisanne Falk, Kim Walker Production Designer: Jon Hutman Costume Designer: Rudy Dillon Hair and Makeup: Julie Hewett Heathers Finds on Etsy https://bit.ly/4gFSaWv Watch Heathers https://amzn.to/42RfAoM Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

As Gen Z slowly but surely unearths gems in film history, one of our beloved Gen X films, Less Than Zero, always seems to escape their discovery. This is because the film is not available anywhere- when it is streaming for a few months on MAX, my various text threads light up, but alas, it leaves as quickly as it comes. One of my top 10 gifts ever received was the Vinyl LP for my Birthday 5 years ago and they can pry my burned DVD of the film from my cold dead hands. It's one of my all-time favorites and I am not alone. Everyone knows that this is Robert Downy Jr.'s best performance, that fans of the Brett Easton Ellis novel hated it, that Jami Gertz' performance was widely criticized (not by me- I love it) and that Brad Pitt is famously in the movie as a random party guest, but let's look deeper into the design, the cinematography and the soundtrack. In this episode, we begin looking at the creative elements of this film that no one will discuss with me. No one. So here I am, crowd-sourcing for as much info as possible to put into one place. Kelli and I scoured what is out there and are parsing it into 2 episodes. If you are out there and worked on this film, please know I have reached out to find you and have heard back that you will not talk about the film or I haven't heard back at all and would absolutely love to. This Gorgeous Film was assembled by: Director: Marek Kanievska Starring: Robert Downey, Jr., Andrew McCarthy, Jami Gertz, James Spader DP: Edward Lachman Production Designer: Barbara Ling Costume Designer: Richard Hornung HMU: Deborah Figuly, Adam Christopher, Barbara O'Neill, Angelo Di Biase 00:00:00 1987's Less Than Zero 00:03:20 Depicting Addiction in Film and Robert Downey Jr.'s unforgettable performance. 00:05:48 Robert Downey Jr. interview clip 00:09:16 Impresario Rick Rubin and his first soundtrack- Less Than Zero 00:11:37 Class Consciousness in Production Design For more insights and interviews, check the show notes and stay tuned for a follow-up episode as we continue to uncover the mysteries of Less Than Zero. LINKS:Less Than Zero on DVDLess Than Zero on VinylLess Than Zero BookSome IG gems Looking back on the gorgeous ’80s excess in Less Than Zero - Interview Magazine Bret Easton Ellis - Interview Magazine Brat by Andrew McCarthy Excerpts on Less Than Zero Brat by Andrew McCarthy The BEST way to Support is to SUBSCRIBE INSTAGRAM Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Look Behind The Look, I delve into the vibrant world of the film Emilia Pérez with the head of the makeup department, Julia Floch-Carbonel. The film stars Selena Gomez and Zoe Saldaña as you have never seen them, and everyone is talking about Karla Sofía Gascón this awards season. We explore the intricate artistry behind the film's makeup design, discussing the creative processes that brought the characters to life. We also touch on the film's controversial aspects, inviting listeners to engage in the broader conversation surrounding its reception.Julia shares her journey of working with renowned director Jacques and how the collaboration evolved from their previous project. She provides insights into the unique challenges and rewarding experiences of crafting the film's visual narrative, including the symbolic transition of the main character and the collaborative efforts with costume designers like Virginie Montel… Speaking of costumes, just imagine the costume department’s surprise when Saint Laurent came on to the project 3 weeks before shooting had a few new ideas (!)The episode highlights the meticulous preparation and creative freedom that allowed the team to push boundaries and create an authentic yet stylized portrayal of the characters. From the influence of opera and musical elements to the innovative choreography, Julia offers a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication and passion that fueled the film's success.00:00:00 Welcome!00:05:07 So tell me how it came into your life to work with Jacques00:10:28 Everything centers around the mouth because it says something about the character00:14:19 The transformation of Rita (Zoe Saldaña)00:17:17 Saint Laurent came, um, along three weeks before we shoot00:19:03 Film references that inspired Emilia Pérez00:22:20 What was the hardest film to shoot? Get full access to Look Behind The Look's Substack from Tiffany Bartok at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribeFollow us on YouTube Instagram for more updates! Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

MARIA premieres on Netflix December 11 and is in theaters now. In this episode of Look Behind The Look, I sit with hair designer Aduitha Lee, known for her iconic work on films like Dallas Buyers Club (for which she won the Oscar) and I, Tonya. Aduitha shares her insights and experiences from her latest project, transforming Angelina Jolie into the legendary opera singer Maria Callas in the film Maria. This episode delves into the creative process behind the hair design, the challenges of capturing the essence of Maria Callas while maintaining Angelina's unique presence, and the intricate details that bring the character to life on screen. Aduitha discusses the extensive preparation involved, including the use of 12 wigs and various hairpieces to portray Maria Callas' iconic looks throughout the film. She also shares the fascinating story of how she came to be involved in the project, the collaborative process with Angelina Jolie, and the innovative techniques used to achieve the film's stunning visual authenticity. From the opera scenes to the intimate moments in Maria's Paris apartment, Aduitha provides a behind-the-scenes look at the artistry and dedication required to create a seamless and captivating transformation. Adruitha is offering a glimpse into the meticulous planning and creative vision that goes into crafting a character's look. Be sure to tell me what you thought of the film and follow Adruitha on IG for more!00:00:00 Welcome 00:13:01 Wig talk- how many wigs were there and how were they prepared? 00:15:46 Dru gives insight to preparing for the Oscar race 00:18:02 Creating the efforless look of Maria while she is at home in her last weeks of her life. 00:20:10 What was your favorite look that you worked on with Angelina 00:23:03 Dru discusses creating the look of Maria, while being true to Angelina's natural face. 00:25:59 The other creative elements of the film. 00:27:43 Follow Adruitha on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/adruithalee/Get full access to Look Behind The Look's Substack at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe The BEST way to Support is to SUBSCRIBE ** https://www.youtube.com/lookbehindthelookpodcast IG https://www.instagram.com/lookbehindthelook/ Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

This week we are sitting with Brian Badie, the hair department for the highly acclaimed series, The Penguin. Brian shares his unexpected journey from New Orleans to New York City, detailing how his career in hair design began on the sets of iconic shows like Law and Order: SVU and evolved into crafting the unforgettable looks in The Penguin and the full story behind the creation of Sophia played by Cristin Milioti. Brian details Mike Marino’s creation of the Penguin’s look and the intricate process behind Colin Farrell's jaw-dropping transformation into the Penguin. Brian's expertise in wigs and character development played a pivotal role in the series' visual storytelling and the development of the unforgettable character Sophia.Brian also opens up about his experience working on Queen & Slim, where he collaborated with creative visionaries to deliver layered storytelling through hair design. From navigating the challenges of local hires to the nuances of freelancing in the film industry, Brian provides invaluable insights and advice for aspiring artists.This episode is a must-listen for freelancers who look to work well with Networks in the industry, and how to pick your battles.Don't miss this engaging conversation that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the artistry and dedication required to bring iconic characters to life on screen.00:00:00 Remember! We moved to Substack!00:01:55 Meet Brian Badi: the hair department head for the Penguin 00:05:36 Brian’s journey from Louisianna00:12:44 Law and Order SVU and the story behind how Brian got the job…00:21:02 Working on Power00:23:23 Mike Marino’s creation of the Penguin’s look00:26:47 Brian and Cristin’s method of crafting the iconic hair for Sophia00:34:57 Queen and Slim with Lena Waithe and M. Molina00:38:39 Advice for how the Department Head should communicate with the network and production company.Get full access to Look Behind The Look's Substack from Tiffany Bartok at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribePSA: Pros - Are you getting your discounts? Check out this post and I will help you to make sure you are getting the most out of being a PRO. Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe