Could The Substance Take Home the Oscar for Best Makeup and Hairstyling?

Among the hotly anticipated categories in the upcoming Academy Awards is Best Makeup and Hairstyling. This year, the nominees showcase a diverse range of artistry, from fantastical transformations to subtle character enhancements. One film generating significant buzz, and a strong contender in this category, is Coralie Fargeat’s body horror satire, The Substance. But does it have what it takes to secure the coveted Oscar?

The Premise and its Potential

The Substance tells the story of Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore), a fading Hollywood star, who undergoes a bizarre procedure to extrude a younger version of herself, portrayed by Margaret Qualley. The film explores themes of aging, misogyny, and the pressures faced by women in the entertainment industry. This narrative provides fertile ground for innovative makeup and hairstyling. The transformation Elisabeth undergoes, from a still-stunning but aging actress to a grotesque, crone-like figure, is a significant undertaking requiring intricate prosthetics, makeup, and potentially even digital effects. This dramatic shift, along with the stark contrast between Elisabeth’s natural appearance and the manufactured perfection of her younger self, presents a compelling case for the film’s nomination.

Can The Substance win the Oscar for Best Makeup and Hairstyling? The odds at 22bet21.com are quite high, at 1.21/1 or 82.60%, meaning it’s in with a strong chance.

The Competition

The Substance faces stiff competition from other nominees, each boasting impressive makeup and hairstyling achievements. Wicked, a likely visual feast, could garner attention for its fantastical character designs. Nosferatu, a remake of the classic horror film, presents opportunities for chilling and innovative monster makeup. A Different Man, known for its transformative prosthetics, is another strong contender, and Emilia Pérez, with its potential for character-driven makeup and hair design, could also be a dark horse in the race.

The Substance’s Strengths

Despite the strong competition, The Substance has several factors working in its favor. The film’s central transformation is not merely about creating a monster or a fantastical creature; it’s about depicting the horrifying effects of societal pressures and the lengths to which individuals might go to maintain youth and relevance. This nuanced approach to makeup and hairstyling elevates the craft beyond mere technical skill and into the realm of storytelling. The makeup team, composed of Pierre-Olivier Persin, Stéphanie Guillon, and Marilyne Scarselli, have been lauded for their work in creating a visually disturbing yet thought-provoking transformation. The gradual decay of both Elisabeth and her younger self, as depicted through increasingly grotesque makeup and hair, is a testament to their artistry and understanding of the film’s themes.

The Substance’s Weaknesses

However, The Substance is not without its potential drawbacks. Some critics have pointed out the film’s over-the-top grotesqueness, arguing that it detracts from the narrative’s impact. This excessive reliance on shock value could potentially alienate some Academy voters who prefer a more subtle approach to makeup and hairstyling. Furthermore, the film’s overall critical reception, while generally positive, has been somewhat mixed, which could influence its chances in this category.

Ultimately, whether The Substance wins the Oscar for Best Makeup and Hairstyling remains to be seen. The film undoubtedly showcases impressive technical skill and a commitment to using makeup and hair to enhance the narrative. The dramatic transformation at the film’s core, combined with the nuanced depiction of aging and societal pressures, makes a strong case for its recognition.