Makeup

This film perfectly illustrates the purpose and value of the indie space. This is one of those odd gems that creates dialogue in areas of everyday life that many aren't even aware of. This is the case with Makeup. Interesting story, narrative, thoughtfully unsensational, unashamedly ambiguous, naturally funny and (without giving any spoilers), leaving all with the warm and fuzzies.

It's well cast, with the protagonist (and Writer/Director) Hugo Andre showcasing a measured performance, supporting the more flamboyant side of the story, by actor Will Masheter. Enjoyed the awkward chemistry between them on screen and confident this will lead to greater things for then both.

I guess we have all contemplated the meaning of life. Does it lie in having a lot of money? A big house? A soul mate? Personally, I believe it lies in love and self-realization, which involves accepting who you are and being content with it, rather than just acquiring expensive possessions.

This film beautifully portrays these aspects:

Love: From this film, I can see that love is not solely about romantic relationships; it extends to loving everything and everyone around you. Even though Sacha is initially shy, in the end, he wears makeup and dresses up to support his friend's show. Dan, on the other hand, tries his best to make Sacha feel at home, shares food with him, encourages him to be brave and say no, and helps him relax by teaching him not to live with a fear of perfection. This love between friends gives them the energy to live better lives.

Self-realisation: After being fired by his boss, Dan feels pain, but he eventually chooses to listen to himself, accept who he is, and love himself. The smile in the last scene indicates that he has found himself.

And I absolutely love all the music! However, it's hard to put into words the exact feeling it evokes. You simply have to experience it!

Perhaps due to time constraints, the dance performance could have been more intense and captivating. Also, Dan's emotional struggles and mood shifts could have been portrayed with more detail. Personally, I think the scene with his self-talk in the mirror showed Dan's self-actualization a bit too quickly (but that's just my personal opinion). Nevertheless, the film's message is more important, so it is still worth watching.

I hope we can learn to love everything and everyone around us, accepting them for who they are and supporting them to be their true selves. Additionally, we should be brave enough to be ourselves since the external world is merely a reflection of our inner selves.

The two leads Sacha & Dan (played by Hugo André and Will Masheter) are extremely loveable, yet complicated characters. They're both sensitive, yet sharp and both mature, yet playful. The casting choices were great, although as both leads also happen to be the writers, I wonder if their characters were based on their personal experiences.

The set design, cinematography, costume & makeup compliment each-other wonderfully. This artful film is never too in your face- in fact a lot of the stylistic choices are reminiscent of delicate French films and nostalgic films alike.

This film is a must watch! The end will have you crying, or smiling, or both!!!