This year’s Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) promises to bring many exciting stories to the big screen, and Aberdeen is no exception. Directed by Ryan Cooper and Eva Thomas, the film follow the turbulent life of their title character (Gail Maurice, Bones of Crows, TIFF ’22) as she finds herself fighting for the stability of her grandkids.
One of the most impressive aspects of Aberdeen is its makeup team, composed of graduates from CMU College. CMU’s graduates are known to bring a unique blend of technical skill and artistic vision to their projects—and Aberdeen is no exception.
The film’s gritty tone, set against the rugged backdrop of Winnipeg, required an authentic and meticulous approach to makeup. The artistry on display in Aberdeen adds layers to the film’s narrative. With HOD Makeup Artist Lisa Diane Rueckert, and assistance from Keara Barrett, the makeup team’s work is especially noticeable in transforming actors into versions of themselves that reflect the harsh realities their characters face.
With makeup playing such a vital role in setting the mood and enhancing performances, it’s no surprise that the graduates from CMU College have risen to the occasion. The college’s commitment to hands-on experience, coupled with mentorship from industry experts, ensures its graduates are more than prepared for high-stakes projects like this one.
Working on Aberdeen is a career-defining opportunity, showing the strong connection between academic training and industry success. CMU College’s dedication to fostering creativity, while emphasizing the importance of collaboration on set, has made its alumni some of the most sought-after professionals in the business.
The graduates working on this film are a testament to how the right training can equip makeup artists to tackle demanding roles in feature films. Whether it’s executing intricate pieces or ensuring continuity throughout intense action scenes, the work of these artists will be on full display at TIFF 2024.
