Makeup (2023)

Rough and ready for play, Makeup explodes off the screen with a jangly attitude as two people, from completely different avenues in life, are brought together in unexpected ways.  The pace is quick and the atmosphere surrounding it absolutely bursts with flavor and fizz.

Written and produced by Hugo André & Will Masheter, alongside Lucas A. Ferrara, Makeup is a multi-award-winning comedy drama, which - having already received numerous accolades including: "Directorial Debut by a Young Filmmaker" at London International Film Festival (2021), Winner of "Best Film" at Paris International Film Awards (2021). In total, the film has won 15 awards, received 5 nominations and 2 honorable mentions - is now available to own and rent on digital download. The point is that Makeup is a fun film which you should seek out.

 

"unfolds in wonderfully charming ways"


The film begins with the arrival of Sacha (Hugo André) as he is dropped off at the wrong location and must hoof it to his news digs in London.  He wants to be a food critic, but is shy about announcing it. Well, his whole nature is a shy one as he is seen apologizing for leaving a low-starred review to his uber driver moments after being dropped off in the middle of nowhere.

And then he meets the stockbroker who owns the house he is going to be renting from.  Dan (Will Masheter) is respected in his profession, and he is agreeable enough to Sacha, but he hides a desire from the rest of the world (who see him as an alpha male): Dan wants to dance.  We see snippets of their lives and, over the course of the movie, an unlikely friendship develops between the housemates.

Sure, Dan has to force Sacha to eat peanut butter with him, but there is a bond which develops, even if it is mainly spearheaded by Dan.  You see, Dan is conflicted; he attempts to hide his aspirations of becoming a burlesque dancer from the people who perceive him as a man’s man, but - with Sacha - he has a chance to break with the past and do something new.Makeup (2023)

Despite their differences, can Sacha and Dan become pillars of support in each other's lives?

The film, following the ebb and flow of an unexpected friendship, unfolds in wonderfully charming ways as Dan and Sacha discover that - by sharing their secrets with each other - they can really learn about life and about how to be the best possible person for each other.  Thematically, every moment works to create something unique as past moments are explored and revealed. 

Makeup does not disappoint as this character-driven comedy hits its stride early and never dips in offering quality moments where expectations are subverted and emotions highlighted.  Big steps forward in trust have small beginnings.  Makeup shows this time and time again and - from the acting to the music and the camera - everything melts together to form a moving experience for the audience in tune with its message about having faith in each other.

Arriving from Red Blazer Productions, in association with Executive Producer Lucas A. Ferrara, Makeup will be available to own and rent on digital download June 27th.

5/5 stars

Film Details

Makeup (2023)

MPAA Rating: Unrated.
Runtime:
90 mins
Director
: Hugo Andre
Writer:
Hugo Andre; Will Masheter
Cast:
Hugo Andre; Charlie Baker; Louis Circé
Genre
: Drama
Tagline:
It's a man's world, so let's paint it pink
Memorable Movie Quote: "Uh, we don't need anymore food, thanks. But I will take another... two bottles. Thank you"
Distributor:
Red Blazer Productions
Official Site:
Release Date:
June 27, 2023
DVD/Blu-ray Release Date:

Synopsis: When two people are brought together from completely different walks of life, it can make for awkward circumstances, especially when they both have their secrets.

Art

Makeup (2023)