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Look Behind The Look

Media & Entertainment Podcasts

New York Times Recommended Look Behind The Look, hosted by filmmaker Tiffany Bartok (Larger Than Life: The Kevyn Aucoin Story), breaks down the most creative looks across TV, film, music, and fashion in exclusive conversations with the artists that created them. Oscar and BAFTA Award Winning makeup and hair artists and costume designers share their process and stories from set with A-List talent, while fashion's elite makeup and hair stylists, photographers and stylists recount tales behind their VOGUE covers. Even hear from Beauty Brand CEO's about how they created their empires. Join us to Look Behind the Look. IG https://www.instagram.com/lookbehindthelook/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/lookbehindthelookpodcast SUBSTACK https://lookbehindthelook.substack.com ShopMy Shelf https://shopmy.us/lookbehindthelook LBTL on Etsy https://creatoriq.cc/4clsLQy LBTL on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/shop/tiffanybartok lookbehindthelook.substack.com

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United States

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New York Times Recommended Look Behind The Look, hosted by filmmaker Tiffany Bartok (Larger Than Life: The Kevyn Aucoin Story), breaks down the most creative looks across TV, film, music, and fashion in exclusive conversations with the artists that created them. Oscar and BAFTA Award Winning makeup and hair artists and costume designers share their process and stories from set with A-List talent, while fashion's elite makeup and hair stylists, photographers and stylists recount tales behind their VOGUE covers. Even hear from Beauty Brand CEO's about how they created their empires. Join us to Look Behind the Look. IG https://www.instagram.com/lookbehindthelook/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/lookbehindthelookpodcast SUBSTACK https://lookbehindthelook.substack.com ShopMy Shelf https://shopmy.us/lookbehindthelook LBTL on Etsy https://creatoriq.cc/4clsLQy LBTL on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/shop/tiffanybartok lookbehindthelook.substack.com

Language:

English


Episodes
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Crafting the Chaos: PC Williams on Costuming The Roses

10/24/2025
THE ROSES Starring Olivia Coleman and Benedict Cumberbatch is available on Disney Plus beginning this weekend, and as you settle in to watch, enjoy this interview with PC Williams, the brilliant costume designer behind the film. PC shares her creative journey in designing captivating looks for Colman and Cumberbatch. Hear how the costumes evolve alongside the characters, reflecting their descent into madness within the narrative of their tumultuous marriage. Beyond The Roses, in our talk, PC also shares valuable insights for aspiring creatives on navigating the industry, the importance of collaboration, and how to handle meetings that may not feel like the right fit. PC is candid and gives amazing advice about how align with the right job for your career creatively and professionally. 00:00 Hello! 02:35 PC discusses the effort behind “effortless” looks. 09:06 How do you collaborate with talent on the job 14:35 Valuable career advice from PC 19:42 When you don’t get something, do you seek feedback or let it go 22:14 PC and her BAFTA win! Watch THE ROSES Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:34:53

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Unraveling the Secret Web of Kiss of the Spider Woman With the Creative Team

10/20/2025
Please Welcome Scott Barnes, the personal makeup artist to Jennifer Lopez, Makeup Department Head Maya Hardinge, and Hair Department Head Michelle Johnson. Kiss of the Spider Woman opened this weekend and now we need to talk about some of those gorgeous looks. In this episode, I am joined the talented team behind the Hair and Makeup in the film, including Scott Barnes, the personal makeup artist to Jennifer Lopez, Makeup Department Head Maya Hardinge, and Hair Department Head Michelle Johnson. Discover how the team came together, the creative challenges they faced, and the intricate details that brought the characters to life. From the vibrant nightclub scenes to the delicate balance of period authenticity and modern flair, the conversation touches on the artistry and collaboration that make this film a visual feast. Get ready for behind-the-scenes stories, insights into the creative process, and a heartfelt tribute to the incredible work that goes into film production. KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN ** From this interview I discovered a couple of things I’m really excited about: 1. The name of the RED that Scott Barnes used in the film on Jennifer. 2. Maya revealed that there will be a Special DVD coming for the film that will have gorgeous deleted scenes. Tactile Media is making a comeback, people, BELIEVE! 00:00 Hello 01:03 Scott says Colleen Atwood recommended him for Kiss of Spider Woman 03:39 What are some of the main differences between movies and the beauty, makeup world 11:59 The hair team. 16:41 Challenges of working in Uruguay. 17:18 The teams’ favorite scenes. 20:23 The secret weapon for selling the era. 23:16 Scott, are you gonna put together a little Kiss the Spider Woman package 24:18 The making of The Spider Woman 27:40 The teams favorite looks in the film. 31:13 Maya: Diego looked great in that one scene. He really looked like, uh. He came off like. He had been through it 33:05 Who’s audition tape made Michelle cry? But wait! There’s more... https://linktr.ee/lookbehindthelook Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:38:59

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Transforming Billy Zane: Behind the Scenes of Waltzing with Brando with Erica Villanueva

10/14/2025
Let’s take a closer look at the work of Erica Villanueva in this little gem WALTZING WITH BRANDO. The film may have snuck past you, but the Hair and Makeup work is extraordinary. Erica was the head of the hair department for the enchanting film. Join us as Erica shares her incredible journey of transforming Billy Zane into the iconic Marlon Brando with her team, capturing the essence of the late 60s with stunning period looks. From the landscapes of Tahiti to the intricate details of replicating Brando’s legendary hairstyles, Erica reveals the challenges and joys experienced on set. Erica also discusses the unique experiences of filming in paradise, the creative process behind the work, and the importance of communication in the intimate world of hair and makeup. With stories of teamwork, and the thrill of being shortlisted for an Oscar, Erica and I had a great time talking about this film. 00:00 Hello! 03:18 Filming in Tahiti 04:08 Billy Zane’s hair and navigating the wig 06:07 Working with Cici Anderson of the makeup department 07:58 The challenges of the elements 10:22 Let’s talk about replicating The Godfather 12:36 The impact that Brando has had on the island. 14:03 Workng with the local crew But wait! There’s more... https://linktr.ee/lookbehindthelook Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:24:41

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The Show Must Go On And So Does Elizabeth Berkley: SHOWGIRLS and Beyond

10/8/2025
Where were you when you first saw the most expensive NC-17 Film ever made? Have you seen it since? What is your relationship with this iconic box office disaster? In this Bite-Sized Episode we examine SHOWGIRLS and celebrate Elizabeth Berkley’s strength despite it’s devastating reception. Even The Academy has come around to acknowledge this film’s place in our pop culture history. Enjoy this look back into the film that is a delicious disaster and let me know about your experience with SHOWGIRLS. 0:00 Hi! 0:53 Hair, Makeup and Costumes of SHOWGIRLS 3:19 The push and pull of Showgirls 4:06 The Backlash 5:45 Gina Ravera and her negative personal experience on set 7:16 Tropes and Colorism in SHOWGIRLS 9:52 Justice for SHOWGIRLS- how the film found success through Camp and triumphed on Home Video Also: See below for a link to the documentary YOU DON’T NOMI for more! Watch SHOWGIRLS Watch the documentary YOU DON’T NOMI Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:12:36

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Crafting Award Winning Looks: Costume Designer Janie Bryant’s Journey Through Deadwood, Mad Men & 1923

8/19/2025
Known for her stunning work on iconic series MAD MEN and her Emmy Award Winning work on Deadwood, Janie shares her journey from a childhood surrounded by textiles to crafting unforgettable looks for the hit show 1923. Discover how family influences shaped her career, the creative process behind designing period costumes, and the challenges of dressing 5,000 extras. Janie reflects on her favorite characters to design for, the importance of authenticity, and the emotional journey of her latest projects. *Weird, wild episode treat? Listen details about for Janie’s love for socks. Yes, SOCKS:) 00:00 Welcome! 01:24 Janie Bryant on her family upbringing in the world of textiles 04:05 Janie's surprising passion for women's business suites! 07:06 The beauty of creating with the show creators 11:29 All things Deadwood 12:00 All things Mad Men 15:28 Janie's favorite characters to design for on Mad Men 17:27 All things 1923 But wait! There's more... Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:34:11

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Emmy-Nominated Designer Kameron Lennox Talks About Actor Collaboration in Costume Creation

8/17/2025
Step behind the scenes of Apple TV’s hit series "The Studio" in this special 2025 Emmy-Nominees episode of Look Behind the Look! Host Tiffany Bartok sits down with Emmy-nominated costume designer Cameron Lennox to uncover the creative process, inspirations, and secrets behind the show’s unforgettable looks. Discover how Cameron collaborates with stars like Seth Rogen, Catherine O’Hara, and Katheryn Hahn, crafts character-defining wardrobes, and brings unexpected Hollywood glamour into the modern era. A deep dive into the artistry of costume design, this episode is a must-listen for fans of film, television, and style. Don’t miss your chance to learn what it takes to create award-worthy costumes and iconic on-screen moments! For more, check out the Look Behind the Look episode on The Studio’s Hair and Makeup Design with myself, Jorgee Douglass and Vanessa Price. 0:00 Introduction to Look Behind the Look 1:58 Meeting Cameron Lennox 3:47 Cameron's History with Seth Rogen 7:22 Cameron's Hollywood Connection 8:59 Development of The Studio 12:07 Film Noir Episode Discussion 15:23 Seth Rogen's Costume Design 17:35 Catherine O'Hara's Character Style 20:38 Katherine Hahn's Character Design 26:06 Quinn's Character Development and Wardrobe 33:16 Closing Remarks Watch The Studio Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:34:05

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Behind the Scenes with Moira Frazier | Emmy-Nominated Hair Department Head of Abbott Elementary

6/19/2025
It's Season 4 of Abbott Elementary, and Moira Frazier is going for her third Emmy Nomination. I had her back for a third time to discuss, guinea pig wigs, Halloween Looks, and more. Moira earned two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Contemporary Hairstyling in 2023 and 2024. Her work on the show also earned her two Hollywood Makeup Artist and Hair Stylist Guild Awards for Best Contemporary Hairstyling. Enjoy our chat about the show, the cast and the industry as we manifest that 3rd nomination- happy voting! Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:18:46

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Makeup Artist James Kaliardos Shares Stories From The Set of Something Beautiful With Miley Cyrus

6/12/2025
Hello from the Tribeca Film Festival While I await for my dispute to clear on YouTube, please feel free to listen to the audio version of my interview with James Kaliardos, who is Miley Cyrus’ makeup artist among MANY other things. A legend in this industry and founder and director of Visionaire, he carved out some time to talk all things Beautiful. To have been at the premier of this creation was an other worldly experience. It was an explosion of the senses to be sure. And to let us in on some of the behind the scenes stories from set, James is here to oblige. Again, the video version of this is currently blocked, but I wanted to get this to you even if it is via mp3. Enjoy! Something Beautiful Showtimes James Kaliardos IG Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:22:40

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Painting RuPaul With Emmy Award Winning Makeup Artist RAVEN

6/10/2025
This is it, you guys.... This is the RAVEN episode! I was thrilled to find myself spending time with Raven to discuss the new season of "Touch Ups with Raven" premiering on WOW Presents Plus June 10. We delved into Raven's journey in the world of drag and makeup artistry. Raven's career began much earlier than her time on Drag Race, with a passion for makeup that sparked at a young age. Growing up in Victorville, California, captivated by the transformative power of makeup, experimenting with cosmetics... a star was born. This early fascination paved the way for a remarkable career that now includes working side by side with royalty- RuPaul. During our conversation, Raven shared the emotional experience of receiving the call to become RuPaul's personal makeup artist and we also learn the elements involved in the signature "Raven Beat". We also discussed the importance of energy matching in the makeup chair, highlighting how Raven and RuPaul create a comfortable and collaborative atmosphere. This synergy allows them to enjoy the process while achieving stunning results, demonstrating the significance of a positive working relationship in the beauty industry. As Raven prepares for the new season of "Touch Ups with Raven," we talked about the importance of continuous learning and experimentation in makeup artistry. Raven reminds us that aspiring artists need to embrace trial and error, as this is the key to finding one's unique style. With so much excitement surrounding Raven's work and the upcoming season, listeners are in for a treat. Join us as we celebrate the artistry of makeup and the vibrant world of drag. Be sure to catch the new season of "Touch Ups with Raven" on WOW Presents Plus! But wait! There's more... https://linktr.ee/lookbehindthelook Watch Touch Ups With Raven Season 2 Starting TODAY, June 10 on World of Wonder Plus Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:47:07

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Reconnecting With Erica Taylor | IT Cosmetics Makeup Coach and Powerhouse Educator

5/28/2025
So... a couple of weeks ago, I was headed to a brand event with fellow makeup artist Eva Perry. It was for IT Cosmetics and I go more into detail about the event on my substack (hint... head there and hit subscribe- it's free) At the event, Jenna Bush Hager along with IT Cosmetics Global Makeup Coach Erica Taylor presented all the ways in which women do it all which launching the new IT Cosmetics Do It All Radiant Concealer. I noticed Erica and I squinting at each other that way you do when you recognize each other... finally we realized we worked together waaaaaay back when at Bloomingdale's of all places (children, there was a career path known as the "Counter Girl"... back then). Yes- Erica, though younger than I, was my trainer at the MAC Counter when we were just kids. I immediately invited her onto the podcast to fill me in on her AMAZING career and all that has happened since then, including gaining over 1 million followers on IG and more on TikTok. She also shares with me her IT Cosmetics faves and plently of those amazing tips that she is famous for. This is a really fun one, you guys. Enjoy! Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:35:25

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The Artistry of Seth Rogan 's The Studio | Hair, Makeup, and More

5/24/2025
In this episode of Look Behind The Look, we jump into the world of the hit Apple TV show, The Studio, featuring a star-studded cast including Seth Rogen, Catherine O'Hara, Bryan Cranston and Kathryn Hahn. The cameos are unreal with Zoe Kravitz giving an unexpectedly hilarious performance, and Dave Franco giving... well... an expectedly hilarious performance. Hair department head, Vanessa Price, and makeup department head, Jorgee Douglass share their creative insights and experiences from behind the scenes. From the impeccable costumes to the wild hair and makeup designs for Hahn and Cranston, they explore how the show's unique visual style enhances its comedic brilliance. It's a collaborative process that shaped the show, revealing how the creative team worked closely with the actors to craft memorable looks that reflect their characters. Jorgee and Vanessa discuss the challenges of creating hair and makeup that not only fit the narrative but also resonate with the audience. Each episode is it's own beast- and they certainly rise to each challenge. As they share about their experiences on set, it becomes clear that the magic of The Studio lies not just in its writing and performances, but also in the meticulous attention to detail in every look. Join us and don’t forget to share your favorite episodes in the comments! (I know it's a given that everyone's favorite was #2, but that finale!!!!! Wow!) But wait! There's more: https://linktr.ee/lookbehindthelook Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:33:43

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Jack Lemmon Turns 100 at The Film Forum

5/14/2025
Shakespeare ​famously ​wrote, ​what's ​in ​a ​name? ​ ​But ​let's ​say ​it ​out ​loud. ​ ​Jack ​ ​Lemmon. ​It ​says ​it ​all ​right ​there ​in ​the ​name. ​​Jack. Ordinary, ​​the ​guy ​across ​from ​you ​on ​the ​subway. Lemon. The ​one ​that ​got ​the ​broken ​car. ​ ​The ​bitter ​taste, ​yet ​the ​surprising ​brightly ​colored ​yellow ​sun ​inside ​of ​the ​bad ​luck. ​Jack ​Lemmon, ​arguably ​the ​greatest ​comic ​and ​dramatic ​actor ​to ​ever ​grace ​the ​screen, ​who ​is ​unrivaled ​​as ​the ​everyman ​who ​trips, ​stumbles, ​ ​triumphs ​and ​gets ​the ​girl. ​Or ​in ​the ​case ​of ​Some ​like ​it ​Hot, ​the ​guy. ​ ​ Starting ​this ​week ​at ​one ​of ​my ​very ​favorite ​movie ​theaters, ​the ​Film ​Forum ​on ​Houston ​Street, ​Jack ​Lemmon ​turns ​100. ​ Can ​you ​believe ​it? ​And ​the ​Film ​Forum ​is ​opening ​its ​two ​week ​tribute ​on ​Friday, ​May ​16th ​with ​the ​iconic ​story ​of ​opposites, ​the ​Odd ​Couple. ​But ​I'm ​not ​here ​to ​talk ​about ​Mr. ​Lemon's ​legendary ​roles ​in ​Days ​of ​Wine ​and ​Roses, ​Glengarry ​Glen ​Ross ​ ​having ​a ​revival ​on ​Broadway ​now ​with ​Bob ​Odenkirk ​reprising ​Lemon's ​unforgettable ​Shelley ​Levine, ​The ​Front ​Page, ​Mr. ​Roberts, ​Bell, ​Book ​and ​A Candle. ​A ​personal ​favorite ​of ​mine, ​Some ​like ​it ​Hot, ​which ​I ​watched ​on ​VHS ​until ​the ​tape ​broke… I ​am ​here ​to ​talk ​about ​one ​of ​the ​greatest ​comedies, ​if ​you ​can ​call ​a ​film ​about ​a ​mid ​level ​office ​drone ​working ​at ​an ​insurance ​company ​ ​who ​lets ​his ​superiors ​bully ​him ​into ​letting ​them ​have ​his ​apartment ​for ​their ​affairs ​in ​hopes ​of ​him ​getting ​promoted ​and ​the ​suicidal ​elevator ​girl ​who ​whom ​he ​falls ​in ​love ​with. ​A comedy ​​The ​Apartment. ​ Legendary ​director ​Billy ​Wilder, ​coming ​off ​the ​wild ​success ​of ​Some ​like ​it ​Hot ​with ​Marilyn ​Monroe, ​wanted ​to ​keep ​his ​collaboration ​with ​Lemon ​going. ​So ​in ​1960, ​Wilder ​and ​I.A.L ​diamond ​(Come ​on, ​is ​that ​the ​coolest ​name?)​ who ​wrote ​Some ​Like ​It ​Hot ​with ​Wilder ​were ​inspired ​by ​an ​infamous ​Hollywood ​murder ​story ​about ​agent ​Jennings ​Lange ​who ​was ​having ​an ​affair ​with ​actress ​Joan ​Bennett ​in ​an ​underlings ​apartment. ​So ​her ​husband, ​producer ​Walter ​Wanger, ​shot ​and ​killed ​Lange. ​Check ​out ​Karina ​Longworth's ​excellent ​podcast ​Love ​Is A Crime from ​You ​Must ​Remember ​This ​for ​the ​full ​retelling ​to ​you ​and ​I. ​This ​might ​not ​seem ​like ​source ​material ​for ​one ​of ​our ​greatest ​comedies, ​but ​in ​Wilder, ​Lemon ​and ​the ​adorable ​Shirley ​MacLaine's ​Hands, ​it ​was ​a ​box ​office ​smash, ​winning ​five ​Oscars ​out ​of ​ten ​nominations. ​ Now ​I ​could ​go ​on ​and ​on ​about ​Billy ​Wilder's ​meticulous ​directorial ​precision, ​Lemon's ​unreal ​​comic ​timing ​and ​turn ​on ​a ​dime ​pathos ​why ​Ving ​Rhames ​spontaneously ​gave ​him ​his ​very ​own ​Golden ​Globe ​in ​1998. ​ But I’m actually here to talk about a hat, a haircut, and a mirror. Let’s rewind to 1960 - President Kennedy just took office, Roy Orbison’s ‘Only The Lonely’ was on the radio, and the kids were doing Chubby Checker’s ‘The Twist’. The very seriously subversive theme and subject of The Apartment can not be over stated in this climate. The film, shot in gorgeous black & white by Joseph LaShelle of Laura and Marty fame, puts us smack-dab in what I’d call ‘Mad Men’ central - a heady swirl of cigarette smoke and ‘Tom & Jerry’ cocktail mix, office Christmas parties, wives holding on line 2 while executive husbands scheduled accepted trysts before dinner and kissing the kids goodnight. Lemmon plays ‘C.C. Baxter’, a hard-working, well-meaning drone who somehow gets himself turned into a sort of brothel landlord. His neighbors wonder how he can withstand being such a Lothario - the sounds coming through the walls everynight don’t match C.C. Baxter’s unassuming Brooks Brothers suit with a rumpled white shirt...

Duration:00:16:42

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Look Behind The Log Lady

5/6/2025
In this episode of Look Behind The Look, my better half,Jayce Bartok, guest hosts and delves into the life and legacy of Cathryn Coulson, famously known as the Log Lady from David Lynch's Twin Peaks. Jayce shared with director Richard Green his experience watching the documentary I Know Cathryn the Log Lady, which paints a vivid portrait of her multifaceted life as an actress, camera operator, and a vibrant personality who faced her illness with unwavering commitment to her craft. Richard reveals the intricate journey of bringing Cathryn's story to the screen. From the challenges of navigating intense NDAs to capturing Cathryn's essence beyond her iconic role, Richard discusses the profound impact Cathryn had on those around her and the lessons he learned throughout the filmmaking process. Jayce and Richard discuss the emotional weight of Cathryn's final moments, her passion for performance, and the unique bond she shared with David Lynch as they worked together to create magic ...even in her last days. This episode is a celebration of resilience, artistry, and the indelible mark left by a beloved figure in television history. Learn More About the Film HERE (and check out the shop for cute merch!) Get full access to Look Behind The Look at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:17:15

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The Spike Lee Joint GIRL 6 | Desperately Seeking Theresa Randle

4/22/2025
Welcome back to another bite-sized episode of Look Behind the Look. Today, we're back with another obscure cinema excavation exploring Spike Lee's 1996 film, Girl 6. The film offers a unique take on the world of phone sex operators through the eyes of an aspiring actress in New York City and, of course, so much more than that. We’ll explore how this film fell into obscurity...and the layered messages on race and female exploitation. Despite its ambitious narrative, the film received mixed reviews upon release and was a commercial disappointment, grossing approximately $4.9 million against a $12 million budget. Girl 6 was dismissed so hard when it came out; it's like it just vanished from Spike Lee's filmography. Reviewers like The Washington Post's Rita Kempley described it as "little more than a profane litany punctuated by Oscar-caliber orgasms," while the Post's Desson Howe stated that "it's enough to reduce expectations over him forever." Even when discussing He Got Game two years later, Spike wouldn't mention Girl 6…That's how much people sidelined it. It's wild because after Girl 6, Spike didn't make another film centered on a female perspective until Chi-Raq in 2015, almost 20 years later. You have to wonder if the reception to Girl 6 made Spike pull back from telling stories about women, especially Black women, navigating systems that weren't built for them. Girl 6 is one of Spike’s most overlooked films, but also one of the most fascinating. That’s exactly why it deserves a closer look behind the look. A Cultural Reassessment In 1996, people didn't know what to do with Girl 6. It barely made a dent at the box office, critics were lukewarm at best, and ultimately, it faded into obscurity. But here's the thing—Girl 6 wasn't a failure. It was a film about performance, sex, race, capitalism, and identity. It didn't fit the mold Hollywood—or even Spike Lee fans—wanted it to fit. This was Spike's first time directing a script he didn't write. The screenplay came from Pulitzer Prize-winner Suzan-Lori Parks, and what they created together was something totally different from the more straightforward sociopolitical narratives people had come to expect from Spike. Instead of overt protest, Girl 6 gives us a quiet, messy rebellion in the form of one Black woman trying to survive the film industry without selling her soul. Theresa Randle plays Judy, a struggling actress who ends up working as a phone sex operator to make ends meet. And that premise could've easily become male-gazey or exploitative in the wrong hands. But it doesn't. This is a story about the male gaze, not one that indulges it. The camera doesn't leer. It's observant. It's empathetic. It's watching Judy navigate objectification. Beyond general objectification, it shows how she manages which specific forms of objectification she subjugates herself to, like being told by her boss, Lil played by a perfectly cast, Hollywood legend, Jenifer Lewis, she needs to sound “Caucasian” on the phone, because that’s what “the client likes.” The film also drops in these surreal, meta moments that throw you off, especially the interspersed news storyline of the young black girl who survived falling down the elevator shaft in her building, but that's the point. It draws a direct line from girlhood to adulthood—how young Black girls are burdened from the start with invisibility, impossible standards, and stereotypes they’re expected to navigate alone just to survive. We see Judy auditioning for roles where she's told to be more "urban," more "real," while directors like Quentin Tarantino, in his now-infamous cameo, barks at Judy with lines laced in microaggressions that escalate—into full-blown aggression, unchecked racism, and flat-out exploitation as he demands she take her top off on camera. It’s violent in its familiarity. And that’s the point. Girl 6 doesn’t flinch—it forces us to sit in the discomfort, to confront how easily Black women are dehumanized under the guise...

Duration:00:19:35

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The Substance Hair Designer Frédérique Arguello Talks About Her Work... And That Oscar Plot Twist

4/10/2025
You may think that we have already covered The Substance enough for the next 10 years… but I wanted to have Frédérique Aguello on the show because believe it or not… there were still some questions that I had. I also wanted to bluntly ask her about the awards process and find out more about why she was on stage for the BAFTA acceptance, but was absent for the Oscar win. In fact, her name was not even on the ballot… In addition to speaking to me about her inspiration and process on The Substance, we get into the complete process of award submissions and what happened specifically in this case which led to Fred being absent from the Oscar ceremony. Enjoy this episode and be sure to weigh in below. 31:50 Oscar contraversy Watch The Substance Interview With Marilyne Get full access to Look Behind The Look's Substack at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:50:51

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SXSW Announcement | Vivien Leigh's Story Will Come Alive In The Florist (Film)

3/14/2025
We came to SXSW this year to cover all things beauty, exciting brand partnerships, and of course, film. But this year was extra special because Look Behind the Look had the opportunity to spotlight The Florist, a new film WE are producing and so excited to share about. The Florist written by Jayce Bartok tells the untold true story of Vivien Leigh’s later years as she battles Bipolar disorder and builds a very special relationship with a local florist. Starring Carla Gugino as Vivien, the film explores artistry, human connection, and the tension between her brilliance and the turmoil surrounding her struggles. We are gearing up to begin production this spring in Philadelphia. We have an incredible team behind the film and our powerhouse producer Lauren Hale Rieckhoff was invited to speak about The Florist at the Keystone House as part of the Amplify Philly: Behind the Lens – Pennsylvania Filmmakers in Focus panel. Armed with posters, postcards, and a mission, it was an amazing afternoon sharing the film alongside other celebrated indie filmmakers. Gino Pesi hosted the discussion, which covered Pennsylvania’s commitment to filmmakers, its production incentives, and why we chose to shoot in Philly. Lauren shared our journey, what’s next, and most importantly, how people can get involved to help bring this film to life. Edit: Kelli Reilly https://www.vinylfoote.com/the-florist-film Get full access to Look Behind The Look's Substack at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:03:25

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Marilyne Scarselli on Working with the Hair and Makeup Team of The Substance

3/1/2025
BAFTA winner and Oscar Nominee Marilyne Scarselli speaks with me about her work on the hair and makeup team of The Substance. From Golum to Requiem For A Dream, hear from Scarselli what inspired the work in this unforgettable film, and learn about working with Demi Moore, SFX designer Pierre Olivier Persin and director Coralie Farageat on the film that would earn her her first BAFTA and Oscar nominations. Use this link to watch THE SUBSTANCE on MUBI for free Get full access to Look Behind The Look's Substack at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:22:28

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The Unfortunate Timelessness of Heathers Starring Winona Ryder

2/14/2025
Heathers is an undeniable classic. We take a look at the creative elements that came together to bring us the first and arguably the best Mean Girls, and the first appearance of the ultimate bad boy that you have to fight everything to resist. Before toxic relationships became an overused phrase, we had Veronica and JD. Unfortunately, the plot of Heathers has become all too real, but the film is still a favorite of Gen X, and here, we try to explain why to the following generations who deem it to be straight up offensive. HEATHERS (1988) Director: Michael Lehmann Writer: Daniel Waters Starring: Winona Ryder, Christian Slater, Shannen Doherty, Lisanne Falk, Kim Walker Production Designer: Jon Hutman Costume Designer: Rudy Dillon Hair and Makeup: Julie Hewett Heathers Finds on Etsy https://bit.ly/4gFSaWv Watch Heathers https://amzn.to/42RfAoM Get full access to Look Behind The Look's Substack at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:15:51

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Oscar Nominee Mike Marino | Transforming Sebastian Stan In A Different Man

2/13/2025
Mike Marino talks with me about working with director Aaron Schimberg, and actors Sebastian Stan and Adam Pearson to create one of the year’s most memorable creations in film. In this episode, we discuss more than just his process and techniques. We actually dove into philosophical implications of body image, the marketing of body horror, the genius of David Lynch, and a lot more. Mike offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of prosthetics and its impact on storytelling. Tune in for a conversation that not only highlights the technical aspects of his craft but also the emotional depth that drives his work. WATCH A Different Man Get full access to Look Behind The Look's Substack at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:26:29

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Dark Romance and Realism | The Artistry Behind Nosferatu's Haunting Looks

2/12/2025
In this episode of Look Behind The Look, we dive into the hauntingly beautiful world of Nosferatu with the Oscar-nominated hair and makeup team: Tracy Loder, David White, and Suzanne Stokes Munton. Under the masterful direction of Robert Eggers, this film artfully blends gothic romance with chilling horror, captivating audiences with its mesmerizing visuals and intricate character designs. Join us as we explore the creative process behind the film’s stunning aesthetics, from the realistic prosthetics to the romantic yet terrifying blood effects. The team shares their experiences in crafting the iconic looks, including the enigmatic mustache that sparked curiosity and the chilling eye effects that have left viewers spellbound. We discuss the challenges faced during production, such as maintaining realism in the film's black-and-white aesthetic and the meticulous planning that went into each character’s transformation. Tracy, David, and Suzanne reveal the secrets behind Willem Dafoe's dusty, unkempt look and Nicholas Hoult's gradual deterioration throughout the film, showcasing their dedication to authenticity. Get ready for an in-depth look at the artistry involved in creating a film that transcends traditional horror, merging beauty and terror into a compelling narrative. If you haven't seen Nosferatu yet, prepare to be enchanted and frightened in equal measure. 00:00:00 Welcome to Look Behind The Look 00:03:15 Meet the Oscar-nominated hair and makeup team 00:08:30 Crafting Willem Dafoe’s unique character 00:09:30 Nicholas Hoult's transformation journey 00:20:25 Crafting Willem Dafoe’s unique character 00:25:10 Nicholas Hoult's transformation journey 00:10:35 The mesmerizing eye effects of Lily Rose Depp 00:12:34 The biggest challenge on set 00:14:25 Oh, RATS! 00:15:40 That final scene... 00:16:45 How were Lily's convulsions and eye rolls achieved and testing Lily's wigs. Get full access to Look Behind The Look's Substack at lookbehindthelook.substack.com/subscribe

Duration:00:22:05