Fantasy Films Where Cosmetics Create Magic

Description: This dark fantasy film explores fairy tales with a twist, where makeup and transformation are central to the narrative, particularly in depicting werewolves and other creatures.

Fact: The film's makeup artist, Jane Royle, used innovative techniques to create the werewolf transformations. The film's visual style was inspired by surrealism and Gothic literature.

Description: Based on Roald Dahl's book, this film features witches who disguise themselves with cosmetics to blend into human society. The makeup in this film is both grotesque and fascinating, showcasing the dark side of beauty.

Fact: Anjelica Huston's transformation into the Grand High Witch required hours of makeup application. The film's makeup artist, Paul Engelen, won a BAFTA for his work.

Description: In this modern fairy tale, Mia Thermopolis, an ordinary high school student, discovers she's the princess of a small European country. Her transformation into royalty includes a magical makeover, highlighting the power of cosmetics in changing one's life.

Fact: The film's makeup artist, Michael White, was nominated for a BAFTA for his work on this film. The iconic makeover scene was inspired by real-life royal transformations.

Description: Penelope is cursed with a pig's snout due to a family curse. Her journey to break the curse involves a magical transformation, where cosmetics play a key role in her acceptance of herself.

Fact: The film uses practical effects for Penelope's snout, with makeup artists creating a prosthetic that was both realistic and expressive.

Description: A young man named Tristan ventures into a magical realm to retrieve a fallen star, which turns out to be a beautiful woman. The film uses makeup to depict various fantastical creatures, emphasizing the magical transformation through cosmetics.

Fact: The film's makeup department created over 100 different looks for the various characters. The star, Yvaine, was given a special luminous makeup to reflect her celestial origin.

Description: This film features a magical mirror that transforms reality, with characters changing appearances through the power of imagination and makeup. The film's visual effects and makeup are integral to its storytelling.

Fact: After Heath Ledger's untimely death, his role was completed by Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell, each with different makeup to reflect the character's transformation.

Description: This comedic take on Snow White features a magical mirror that not only reflects but also transforms, with makeup playing a key role in the visual storytelling.

Fact: The film's makeup artist, Eryn Krueger Mekash, was nominated for a Saturn Award for her work. The Queen's makeup was designed to reflect her vanity and obsession with beauty.

Description: Elaine, a modern-day witch, uses her beauty and magical potions to enchant men. The film's aesthetic heavily relies on 1960s-inspired makeup, showcasing the power of cosmetics in witchcraft.

Fact: The film was shot on 35mm film to capture the vibrant colors of the makeup and costumes. The makeup was designed to reflect Elaine's character arc and her manipulation of beauty standards.

Description: Clara's journey into a magical world involves a transformation through a magical key, where makeup and costumes play a significant role in depicting the different realms and characters.

Fact: The film's costume designer, Jenny Beavan, was nominated for an Academy Award. The makeup department created unique looks for each realm, emphasizing the fantastical elements.

Description: This retelling of the Cinderella story features Danielle, who uses her wit and a bit of magical help from a mysterious woman to win the heart of the prince. The film showcases the transformative power of beauty and self-confidence.

Fact: The film's costume designer, Jenny Beavan, won an Academy Award for her work. The makeup used in the film was designed to reflect the era's beauty standards.