“Were you rushing or were you dragging?”
Talking About Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash with our guest, hair and makeup designer Frances Hounsom

In this episode of Movies We Like, Pete Wright and Andy Nelson are joined by acclaimed hair and makeup designer Frances Hounsom to discuss her fascinating career journey and the award-winning film Whiplash. Frances shares captivating stories about her early love for cinema, the challenges of breaking into the film industry, and her experiences working on a diverse range of projects.

Throughout the conversation, Frances offers unique insights into the crucial role of a hair and makeup designer in bringing characters to life on screen. She discusses the collaborative process of working closely with actors, the importance of maintaining a positive energy on set, and the emotional impact of transforming performers for demanding roles. Frances also delves into the technical aspects of her craft, from creating prosthetics to the surprising power of hairstyles in defining a character's era.

The discussion touches on Frances' work on notable films such as Magic Mike's Last Dance  and the upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog 3, along with the challenging miniseries The Tattooist of Auschwitz. She shares behind-the-scenes anecdotes about working with talented actors like Channing Tatum, Salma Hayek, Jim Carrey, and Harvey Keitel, showcasing the unique relationships that develop between actors and their hair and makeup team.

Damien Chazelle's intense drama Whiplash serves as a focal point for the conversation, with Frances expressing her admiration for the film's powerful performances and its exploration of the sacrifices demanded by the pursuit of artistic excellence. The movie's themes resonate with Frances' own experiences in the film industry, where passion, perseverance, and the willingness to push boundaries are essential for success.

Whiplash is a must-see film for anyone interested in the depths of human ambition and the price of greatness. With its electrifying performances and masterful storytelling, it's a movie that lingers long after the final frame. Talking with Frances Hounsom about her career and her love for this film was an absolute delight, offering listeners a fascinating glimpse into the world of a hair and makeup designer and the magic they bring to the screen.

Film Sundries

• Frances on IMDb, Instagram, Twitter, and her website
• Stream The Tattooist of Auschwitz on Peacock
• Watch Whiplash on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
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• Theatrical trailer
• Original Material
• Letterboxd

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