As the 97th Academy Awards approach, the competition for Best Makeup and Hairstyling is heating up with an array of standout films showcasing remarkable artistry. Nominations voting runs from January 8-12, 2025, with official nominations announced on January 17, 2025. Final voting is February 11-18, 2025, culminating in the Oscars telecast on Sunday, March 2, live on ABC at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. Here are the top contenders as of now.
Longlegs (Neon)
“Longlegs,” directed by Osgood Perkins, has emerged as an early favorite. Nicolas Cage’s transformation into a creepy serial killer is the work of head makeup artist Felix Fox and special makeup effects artist Harlow MacFarlane. The film’s distinctive look, blending androgynous, disfigured glam rock vibes with powdered makeup inspired by Bob Dylan, stands out. The seven-piece prosthetic application for Cage’s character is particularly noteworthy.
A Different Man (A24)
Aaron Schimberg’s black comedy “A Different Man” features Sebastian Stan as an actor undergoing experimental facial reconstructive surgery. Oscar-nominated prosthetic makeup designer Mike Marino creates a realistic depiction of neurofibromatosis, using multiple layers of prosthetics to achieve a striking visual transformation.
Dune: Part Two (Warner Bros.)
Returning makeup and hair designer Donald Mowat continues his exceptional work, transforming Stellan Skarsgård into the horrifying Baron Harkonnen and introducing Austin Butler as the sociopathic gladiator Feyd-Rautha. The elaborate makeup for Rebecca Ferguson’s Lady Jessica also stands out as she joins the Fremen’s cave-dwelling Sietch.
Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (Warner Bros.)
In George Miller’s prequel to “Mad Max: Fury Road,” hair and makeup designer Lesley Vanderwalt assembles an army of craftspeople to handle the Wasteland looks. Chris Hemsworth’s Dementus, leader of the Biker Hoard, with a prosthetic nose, contacts, and a long beard, is a standout.
Deadpool & Wolverine (Marvel/Disney)
Sean Levy’s film pairs Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. The usual gross-out prosthetics for Wade Wilson/Deadpool’s heavily scarred face are enhanced, and Emma Corrin’s bald Cassandra Nova brings a fresh look. Paula Price leads the hair and makeup team.
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