On this pageTap to expand
The Academy Award for Best Makeup and Hairstyling is an ode to the magicians behind the mirrors, the artisans who sculpt, paint, and design to bring cinematic visions to life.
Their brushes whisper tales of transformations, from the aged wrinkles of a wise elder to the fantastical features of otherworldly beings.
In this article, we journey through the myriad of colors, contours, and coiffures that have made celluloid dreams a reality.
Let’s jump deep into the artistry of the Oscar winners in this category, celebrating the maestros who’ve mastered the craft of visual metamorphosis, leaving us in awe with every stroke and style.
Academy Award For Best Makeup And Hairstyling
Filmmaker quote“As much as my primary vocation is that of an actor, if anything, I feel like I am more excited about filmmaking in general, so it's not always a specific role that I'm attracted to, but rather an entire piece that I want to be a part of.”
Elijah Wood
Unveil the magic behind the Academy Award for Best Makeup and Hairstyling, where artistry transforms and transcends.
From age-old warriors to futuristic beings, delve into the hands that shape, shade, and style cinema’s most iconic faces.
Celebrate the artisans whose brushes and combs craft legends, earning them a revered spot under Oscar’s glow.
1. Amadeus (1984)
Amadeus is a biographical drama film released in 1984, directed by Miloš Forman. The movie is based on Peter Shaffer’s stage play of the same name and offers a fictionalized account of the lives of composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri.
The film revolves around the jealousy and rivalry that develops between Salieri, played by F. Murray Abraham, and Mozart, portrayed by Tom Hulce.
Salieri, a highly respected composer at the court of Emperor Joseph II, becomes consumed by envy upon witnessing Mozart’s prodigious talent and unrivaled genius.
The story delves into Salieri’s inner turmoil as he plots to undermine Mozart’s success and ultimately seeks revenge against the man he sees as his musical and personal nemesis.
Amadeus is renowned for its captivating performances, intricate storytelling, and its exploration of themes such as artistic jealousy, passion, and the price of greatness.
F. Murray Abraham’s portrayal of Antonio Salieri earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, while Tom Hulce’s depiction of Mozart was also widely praised.
The film showcases the magnificent music of Mozart, featuring many of his most beloved compositions.
The captivating visuals, lavish period costumes, and the meticulous attention to detail in recreating 18th-century Vienna all contribute to the film’s immersive and evocative atmosphere.
Amadeus received critical acclaim upon its release and became a commercial success. It won numerous awards, including eight Academy Awards — among them Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Makeup for Paul LeBlanc and Dick Smith.
The film’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to bring the world of classical music to life, showcasing the brilliance of Mozart’s music while delving into the complex emotions and motivations of the characters.
Amadeus remains a beloved film for its captivating storytelling, memorable performances, and its exploration of the complex relationship between talent, ambition, and envy.
2. Ed Wood (1994)
Ed Wood is a biographical comedy-drama film directed by Tim Burton and released in 1994. The movie tells the story of Edward D. Wood Jr., often considered one of the worst directors in the history of cinema.
If you want to explore more about prestigious film awards, we have an extensive guide on awards and film festivals that have shaped cinema worldwide.
It follows his passionate and relentless pursuit of his dreams to become a filmmaker, despite his lack of talent and numerous setbacks.
In Ed Wood, Johnny Depp portrays the titular character, Edward D. Wood Jr., with a charismatic and enthusiastic performance.
Ed Wood is shown as a persistent and optimistic filmmaker, surrounded by a group of eccentric and loyal friends, including Bela Lugosi, played by Martin Landau.
The film highlights Wood’s unconventional methods, his unconventional movies, and his unwavering determination, even in the face of critical failure.
Ed Wood pays homage to the spirit of independent filmmaking and the passion that drives artists, regardless of their success or critical acclaim. The film received positive reviews for its unique storytelling, quirky characters, and the performances of the cast.
Martin Landau’s portrayal of Bela Lugosi in Ed Wood earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, while Rick Baker, Ve Neill, and Yolanda Toussieng won Best Makeup for the film’s transformative character work — including Landau’s uncanny Lugosi.
Ed Wood remains a cult classic and is praised for its portrayal of a filmmaker who, despite his lack of artistic success, remains dedicated to his craft.
3. Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
Mrs. Doubtfire (1993) is a comedy-drama directed by Chris Columbus and stars Robin Williams in the lead role.
In Mrs. Doubtfire, Robin Williams portrays Daniel Hillard, a struggling actor and loving father who, after a divorce, disguises himself as a British nanny named Mrs. Euphegenia Doubtfire in order to spend more time with his children.
The film explores the challenges and comedic situations that arise as Daniel navigates his double life, attempting to maintain the ruse while reconnecting with his family.
The film features a talented ensemble cast, including Sally Field as Daniel’s ex-wife, Pierce Brosnan as her new love interest, and Mara Wilson, Lisa Jakub, and Matthew Lawrence as Daniel’s children.
Greg Cannom, Ve Neill, and Yolanda Toussieng won the Academy Award for Best Makeup for Williams’s full-body transformation into Mrs. Doubtfire — the prosthetic and aging work that sells the comic premise.
Mrs. Doubtfire remains a beloved family comedy that showcases Robin Williams’ comedic genius and his ability to bring both humor and heart to his performances.
The film resonated with audiences for its themes of family, love, and the lengths a parent would go to be with their children.
4. Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
Terminator 2: Judgment Day is a 1991 science fiction action film directed by James Cameron. It is the sequel to the 1984 film The Terminator and features a stellar cast, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Linda Hamilton, and Robert Patrick.
In Terminator 2: Judgment Day, Arnold Schwarzenegger reprises his role as the T-800, a cyborg assassin known as the Terminator.
However, this time, the Terminator is sent back in time to protect John Connor, portrayed by Edward Furlong, who is destined to become the leader of the human resistance against the machines in a post-apocalyptic future.
On the other hand, Robert Patrick plays the advanced and deadly T-1000, a new model of Terminator sent to kill John Connor.
The film is renowned for its groundbreaking visual effects, particularly the use of computer-generated imagery (CGI) to bring the liquid metal T-1000 to life.
The action sequences, chase scenes, and intense battles between the Terminators captivated audiences, making Terminator 2: Judgment Day a thrilling and visually spectacular experience.
Beyond its action-packed nature, the film also delves into themes of humanity, sacrifice, and the potential dangers of technology.
It explores the evolving relationship between the T-800 and John Connor, as well as the transformation of Sarah Connor, played by Linda Hamilton, from a vulnerable woman to a hardened warrior determined to protect her son’s future.
Terminator 2: Judgment Day was a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its technical achievements, storytelling, and performances. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Sound Editing, Best Sound Mixing, Best Visual Effects, and Best Makeup.
The film is considered a landmark in the science fiction genre and remains a fan favorite. Its influence can be seen in subsequent Terminator films and other action films that draw inspiration from its innovative visual effects and thrilling storytelling.
Terminator 2: Judgment Day is often hailed as one of the greatest action films of all time, combining adrenaline-pumping sequences with compelling characters and thought-provoking themes.
It continues to entertain audiences and serve as a testament to James Cameron’s directorial prowess and the enduring popularity of the Terminator franchise.
5. Beetlejuice (1988)
Beetlejuice is a 1988 dark comedy fantasy film directed by Tim Burton. The film stars Michael Keaton in the titular role as Beetlejuice, a mischievous and eccentric ghost with a flair for chaos and a knack for helping the recently deceased.
The story revolves around a recently deceased couple, Adam and Barbara Maitland, played by Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis, who find themselves trapped in their own home as ghosts.
In an attempt to scare away the new living inhabitants of their house, the Deetz family, Adam and Barbara seek the help of Beetlejuice.
However, their plans quickly spiral out of control as Beetlejuice wreaks havoc on both the living and the dead, leading to chaotic and humorous situations.
Beetlejuice is known for its unique and quirky visual style, characteristic of Tim Burton’s directorial vision.
The film combines elements of comedy, fantasy, and horror, creating a whimsical and offbeat atmosphere. It showcases Burton’s signature gothic aesthetics, with dark and surreal set designs and eccentric characters.
Michael Keaton’s performance as Beetlejuice is widely praised for his energetic and scene-stealing portrayal. He brings a manic and unpredictable energy to the character, balancing humor and menace in a memorable way.
Beetlejuice achieved both critical and commercial success upon its release and has since become a cult classic. It won the Academy Award for Best Makeup — awarded to Ve Neill, Steve La Porte, and Robert Short — and has gained a devoted fan base over the years.
The film’s success led to a spin-off animated television series and, decades later, the 2024 sequel Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.
Beetlejuice remains a beloved and influential film, known for its dark humor, imaginative world-building, and memorable performances, particularly Michael Keaton’s portrayal of the eccentric ghost, Beetlejuice.
6. Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)
Mad Max: Fury Road is a post-apocalyptic action film released in 2015. Directed by George Miller, who co-wrote the screenplay with Brendan McCarthy and Nico Lathouris, the film is set in a desert wasteland where resources are scarce, and survival is a constant battle.
In Mad Max: Fury Road, Tom Hardy stars as Max Rockatansky, a former police officer turned reluctant hero, who becomes entangled with a group of women led by Imperator Furiosa, played by Charlize Theron.
As they escape from the tyrannical rule of the warlord Immortan Joe, portrayed by Hugh Keays-Byrne, they embark on a high-octane chase across the desert in a heavily armored truck called the War Rig.
The film is renowned for its adrenaline-pumping action sequences, stunning practical effects, and intense visuals.
The majority of the action takes place on the dangerous roads of the desert, as Max and Furiosa encounter various factions, confront their own personal demons, and ultimately fight for freedom and redemption.
Mad Max: Fury Road received widespread critical acclaim and was hailed as one of the greatest action films of all time.
It garnered numerous accolades, including six Academy Awards — among them Best Makeup and Hairstyling for Lesley Vanderwalt, Elka Wardega, and Damian Martin, plus Best Film Editing, Best Production Design, and Best Costume Design.
The film’s innovative approach to action filmmaking, strong performances, and feminist undertones resonated with audiences and critics alike.
George Miller’s direction and vision, coupled with the stunning cinematography and practical effects, created a visceral and immersive experience for viewers.
The film’s intense and relentless pace, combined with its underlying themes of survival, redemption, and the fight against tyranny, contributed to its enduring popularity.
Mad Max: Fury Road revitalized the iconic Mad Max franchise, bringing it to a new generation of fans while also satisfying longtime followers. It stands as a testament to the power of visual storytelling and has solidified its place as a modern action classic.
7. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)
Pan’s Labyrinth is a dark fantasy film directed by Guillermo del Toro. Released in 2006, the film is set in Spain in 1944, during the post-Civil War era. It combines elements of fantasy and war drama to tell a captivating and visually stunning story.
The film follows the journey of a young girl named Ofelia, played by Ivana Baquero, who escapes into a mythical labyrinth to cope with the harsh realities of her life.
Ofelia encounters a faun creature who tasks her with completing a series of dangerous and fantastical tasks to prove her worth and claim her rightful place as the princess of the underworld.
As Ofelia navigates her way through the labyrinth, she must also contend with the oppressive presence of her stepfather, Captain Vidal, played by Sergi López, who is a high-ranking officer in Franco’s army.
The film juxtaposes the cruel and brutal world of the Spanish Civil War with the enchanting and mysterious world Ofelia discovers within the labyrinth.
Pan’s Labyrinth showcases Guillermo del Toro’s signature visual style and storytelling prowess. The film seamlessly blends the real and the fantastical, creating a haunting and captivating atmosphere. It explores themes of escapism, imagination, sacrifice, and the power of storytelling.
The film received widespread critical acclaim and garnered three Academy Awards: Best Makeup (David Martí and Montse Ribé), Best Cinematography, and Best Art Direction. It is praised for its intricate storytelling, stunning creature and character design, and the performances of its cast.
Pan’s Labyrinth is often regarded as one of Guillermo del Toro’s masterpieces, showcasing his ability to create a rich and imaginative world while delving into deep and resonant themes.
Overall, Pan’s Labyrinth is a visually captivating and emotionally impactful film that combines fantasy and reality to tell a poignant and thought-provoking story.
Its exploration of the power of imagination and its juxtaposition of the brutalities of war with the allure of fantasy make it a unique and memorable cinematic experience.
8. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is a fantasy adventure film released in 2001, directed by Peter Jackson. It is the first installment in the acclaimed film trilogy based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic novel The Lord of the Rings.
The film follows the journey of a group of characters known as the Fellowship of the Ring, who set out on a perilous quest to destroy the One Ring, a powerful artifact that holds immense dark power and threatens to plunge the world into darkness.
The members of the Fellowship include Frodo Baggins (played by Elijah Wood), the ring bearer; Gandalf the Grey (played by Ian McKellen).
The wise wizard; Aragorn (played by Viggo Mortensen), the reluctant heir to the throne; and a diverse group of individuals from different races and backgrounds.
The Fellowship of the Ring introduces the rich and expansive world of Middle-earth, filled with captivating landscapes, vibrant cultures, and a wide array of memorable characters.
The film combines breathtaking visual effects, intricate costumes, and a sweeping musical score by Howard Shore to bring Tolkien’s fantastical realm to life.
The film received critical acclaim for its immersive storytelling, faithful adaptation of the source material, and its technical achievements.
It was a commercial success, grossing over $871 million worldwide. The Fellowship of the Ring won four Academy Awards, including Best Cinematography, Best Visual Effects, Best Original Score, and Best Makeup.
The film’s success paved the way for the remaining two installments, The Two Towers (2002) and The Return of the King (2003), which completed the epic trilogy.
Collectively, the trilogy is regarded as one of the greatest achievements in modern filmmaking, earning numerous accolades — capped by The Return of the King’s Academy Award sweep, which included Best Picture.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring stands as an iconic and influential film in the fantasy genre, beloved by fans for its captivating story, memorable characters, and its ability to transport viewers to a world of magic and adventure.
9. The Fly (1986)
The Fly is a 1986 science fiction horror film directed by David Cronenberg. It is a remake of the 1958 film of the same name and stars Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis in the lead roles.
In The Fly, Jeff Goldblum plays Seth Brundle, a brilliant but eccentric scientist who invents a teleportation device.
During an experiment, he accidentally merges his DNA with that of a fly, resulting in a gradual and horrifying transformation. As Seth’s physical and mental deterioration progresses, he becomes a grotesque hybrid creature with insect-like abilities.
The film explores themes of identity, transformation, and the consequences of scientific ambition.
It delves into the psychological and emotional toll that Seth’s transformation takes on him and his relationship with Veronica, played by Geena Davis, who is a journalist documenting his scientific breakthroughs and subsequent transformation.
The Fly is known for its groundbreaking special effects, particularly the remarkable makeup and prosthetics used to depict Seth’s transformation. Chris Walas and Stephan Dupuis won the Academy Award for Best Makeup for that work. The film garnered critical acclaim for its unique blend of horror, science fiction, and drama.
Jeff Goldblum’s performance, in particular, received praise for his portrayal of a man descending into madness and physical decay.
The Fly remains a significant entry in the horror genre, with its thought-provoking narrative, compelling performances, and Cronenberg’s signature blend of body horror and psychological exploration.
10. An American Werewolf in London (1981)
An American Werewolf in London is a horror-comedy film directed by John Landis and released in 1981.
The film follows the story of two American tourists, David Kessler (played by David Naughton) and Jack Goodman (played by Griffin Dunne), who are attacked by a werewolf while hiking on the English moors.
David survives the attack but soon realizes that he has become a werewolf himself.
As he grapples with his monstrous transformation and the violent urges that come with it, he receives haunting visits from the ghost of his deceased friend, Jack, who warns him of the impending danger he poses to others.
The film is known for its groundbreaking special effects, particularly the werewolf transformation sequence, which was created by Rick Baker and won the first Academy Award for Best Makeup.
The blend of horror and humor in An American Werewolf in London distinguishes it from traditional werewolf films, as it incorporates dark comedy elements alongside the scares.
The film received critical acclaim for its innovative special effects, atmospheric storytelling, and darkly comedic tone. It has since become a cult classic and is considered a landmark in the werewolf genre.
An American Werewolf in London remains celebrated for its balance of horror and humor, its memorable characters, and its influential contributions to the world of practical effects in cinema.
Filmmaker quote“If you want to take a good shit, you have to eat a good meal.”
Miloš Forman
Related on Filmmaking Lifestyle
Read next: Academy Award For Best Cinematography Winners, Top 20 Winners: The Complete Guide, Academy Award For Best Costume Design: Top 10 Movies, and 25 Academy Award For Best Documentary Feature: Celebrating Powerful Real-World Narratives.
Deepen your understanding of Cinema — explore more Film Theory.
Incendies: Context, Themes, and Style
No Fear, No Die: Symbolism and Interpretation
Frances Ha: The Meaning Behind the Moments
Lola: A Guide to Its Meaning and Impact
A Bay of Blood: Visual Style, Ideas, and Impact
Once Upon a Time in Anatolia: A Modern Appreciation
Demon Seed: A Guide to Watching It Like a Critic
Lone Wolf and Cub: The Final Conflict: A Modern Appreciation
Ex Machina: What Makes It a Classic
New comments are not currently accepted.
Comments