Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at the incredible transformation of Timothée Chalamet into his character, Marty, in the film "Marty Supreme"! This story is a testament to the power of prosthetics and makeup artistry, and it's about to get real.
In this film, Chalamet embodies a young, ambitious hustler from the gritty streets of New York's Lower East Side. Director Josh Safdie wanted to capture the raw, authentic essence of the character, and that's where our story begins.
The Challenge: Making Chalamet Disappear
Prosthetic makeup designer Mike Fontaine, a nominee at the Makeup and Hair Stylists Guild Awards and shortlisted for best makeup at the Oscars, took on the task of transforming Chalamet. Fontaine worked closely with Safdie and makeup artist Kyra Panchenko to ensure Chalamet seamlessly blended into the film's gritty world.
Fontaine explains, "Josh had a clear vision. He wanted scars, acne scars, and keloid scars, to show that Marty had been through some tough times and maybe a few fights." And so, Marty's face was given a prominent scar on his cheekbone and additional scarring under his chin, suggesting a rough life.
In one scene, Marty's escape from the cops is captured in a thrilling fire escape climb. Fontaine adds, "It gives you the feeling that Marty's done this before, taken a few tumbles."
But here's where it gets controversial... How far should they take the transformation?
The Screen Test Dilemma
With extensive screen tests and footage reviewed with Chalamet and Safdie, Fontaine realized the initial makeup was too extreme. He decided to re-sculpt and remake everything, aiming for a natural, invisible look.
Fontaine, Panchenko, and hairstylist Jimmy Goode worked together seamlessly in Chalamet's trailer, transforming him in an hour. "Kyra would start on the brows, and Jimmy would style the hair simultaneously," Fontaine explains.
Chalamet wore five prosthetics in total. Large pieces covered his cheeks to create acne-pockmarked skin texture, and smaller pieces added scars to his cheekbone, lip, and chin.
With close-up shots and long lenses, every detail mattered. Fontaine had to "drench" Chalamet in fake sweat during intense table tennis scenes.
But the transformation didn't stop there. Safdie wanted to distort Chalamet's vision for added authenticity. Instead of prop glasses, they used a combination of contact lenses and prescription glasses.
Fontaine reveals, "We blurred his vision with contact lenses and then added heavy prescription glasses, making his eyes appear small and beady."
Safdie previously told Variety, "We said we'd put +10 contact lenses and -10 prescription lenses, so when his glasses fall, he's blind." Chalamet's experience? "Like being in a fishbowl," he described.
Despite the challenges, Chalamet was committed. "I'll do anything," he told Safdie.
And this is the part most people miss... The incredible dedication and collaboration behind the scenes that bring these characters to life.
So, what do you think? Is this level of transformation necessary for authenticity? Or is it taking things too far? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
