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Kazu Hiro, a true giant in the world of prosthetic makeup, is on the brink of retirement after an incredible career that has stretched over three decades. Known for his transformative work in film, Hiro has partnered with some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Bradley Cooper and Gary Oldman.
But even as he gears up to step away from the industry, the creativity and enthusiasm of modern filmmakers, like Benny Safdie, continue to spark his passion for this intricate art form. Isn’t it fascinating how inspiration can come from the new generation?
A New Chapter with ‘The Smashing Machine’
Hiro’s latest project, A24’s The Smashing Machine, features none other than Dwayne Johnson as MMA fighter Mark Kerr, alongside Emily Blunt as his wife, Dawn Staples. This film not only marks Safdie’s solo directorial debut but also gives Hiro another chance to showcase his incredible talent.
Johnson’s transformation is so striking that audiences might find it hard to recognize him—now that’s a testament to Hiro’s skill!
As he prepares to receive the TIFF Variety Artisan Award, Hiro reflects on the feedback he often hears about the drastic changes he brings to life through makeup.
He emphasizes the delicate balance between transformation and realism, stating, “It’s essential to capture the essence of the character while remaining true to the narrative.” This guiding principle has steered him through numerous projects, including the remarkable transformations of Cooper into Leonard Bernstein and Oldman into Winston Churchill.
Can you imagine the artistry involved in those changes?
The Art of Subtlety in Makeup
While the potential for radical transformation is always on the table, Hiro and Safdie decided to take a subtler approach for The Smashing Machine. With the film’s intense action scenes and the need for realistic portrayals, they recognized that keeping the actor’s expressions intact was crucial.
Hiro explains, “The makeup must withstand the rigors of physical activity without compromising the performance.” It’s all about striking that perfect balance!
For Johnson’s character, Hiro dedicated a whopping two hours to the makeup process, using techniques like eyebrow covering and reshaping facial features to closely resemble Kerr. Plus, the wig design played a critical role in achieving authenticity. Hiro’s meticulous attention to detail goes beyond the surface, ensuring that every element of the makeup aligns with the character’s narrative journey. Isn’t it amazing how much work goes into making a character come alive?
Challenges Faced and Innovations Made
One of the challenges Hiro faced daily was Johnson’s extensive tattoos, which required careful covering to maintain the character’s integrity. As filming progressed, the physicality of the scenes brought further hurdles, like sweat affecting the makeup’s adherence. Hiro candidly shares, “Sweat is a constant adversary in action sequences; we had to be vigilant with maintenance.” It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it!
Working closely with Johnson’s makeup artist, Bjoern, Hiro employed products specifically designed for durability, ensuring that the artistry could withstand the film’s demanding conditions. Despite these challenges, Hiro remains committed to his craft, revealing that he has already embarked on a new, mysterious project that promises to be as innovative as his past work. What could it be?
A Lasting Impact on the Industry
The TIFF Variety Artisan Award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to cinema, and Hiro is no exception. As he prepares to step back from the industry, his legacy is sure to influence future generations of makeup artists. Previous winners of the award underline the caliber of talent that Hiro embodies, reinforcing the importance of his work.
As Kazu Hiro considers retirement, he leaves behind a rich tapestry of creativity and innovation that has reshaped the film landscape. His ability to breathe life into characters through makeup artistry has set a high standard that will inspire and challenge future artists to push the boundaries of their craft. Isn’t it exciting to think about who will carry on his legacy?
