Behind the Scenes on a Movie Set: Melvin Smarty

By April

I recently had the great opportunity work as the head of the makeup department on an independent film called “Melvin Smarty“. The job was one I’ve waited years to have, and the experience was every bit as wonderful as you could imagine.  

A comedy coming to theaters in 2010, the film centers around Melvin Smarty, a radio host that talks about relationships and couples dealing with their relationships in various and often zany ways. 

It was my pleasure to work with quite a stellar cast (more info on IMDB), which included:

Helena Mattson, who is also starring in Iron Man 2.

Taylor Cole ,who is in Surrogates, starred in Summerland, and also appeared on Heroes.

The wonderful George Hamilton, who needs no introduction.

Bill William Saddler of Shawshank Redemption.

Creed Bratton from the sitcom The Office.

Trishelle Cannatella.

Ken Davitian of Borat.

Now, for the very important makeup and hair details!!!!

Foundation:

Helena Mattson

For the gorgeous ladies, I used my holy grail foundation, which is Armani’s Luminous Silk. Photographs like a dream and I was able to mix them to match the indiviual. For Helena I used shade 5.0 and for Taylor I used 4.5 mixed with 5.5.

On the men I used Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer to smooth and perfect their skin for the camera.

Concealer:

I used my favorite concealors on the cast – both Amazing Concealer and DermaColor, depending on the individual and what needed covering.

Blush:

Dolce and Gabbana blushes ruled the set,especially Provocative — it was gorgeous on Helena.

 Eyes:

I used MAC shadows, primarily, with some Dolce and Gabanna thrown in for good measure. Lashes were enhanced with L’oreal’s Voluminous mascara.  

Lips:

 L’oreal Hip Color Presso gloss - a cheap treat that works!

Hair:

My products of choice were Kiehl’s Silk Groom Serum and Frederic Fekkai  Sheer Holding hair spray. Both worked like a charm and the cast loved the way they looked.

Thanks for taking this peek behind-the-scenes with me on my very first job doing makeup for a feature film. It was a the experience of a lifetime … well, besides taping a segment for Oprah, which will air in January.