Ever Wondered About the Magic Behind Wicked?

Have you ever been curious about how the enchanting universe of Wicked is transformed into cinematic magic? In a captivating behind-the-scenes feature, reporter Kirbie Johnson explores the meticulous artistry involved in crafting the breathtaking wigs, special effects makeup, and other elements that bring Wicked’s beloved characters to life. Johnson recently interviewed Frances Hannon, the gifted hair and makeup designer responsible for the iconic looks of the characters in the Wicked films.

Frances Hannon: A Visionary Artist

Frances Hannon, a highly acclaimed artist with both an Oscar and a BAFTA to her name, faced a monumental challenge in reimagining the enchanting characters of Wicked for the big screen. With the first film already captivating audiences and the second installment scheduled for release in 2025, Hannon took on the task of designing hair, makeup, and prosthetics for more than 3,000 background actors, in addition to the lead roles.

Adapting Characters for Film

One of Hannon’s significant hurdles was reinterpreting the appearances of the lead characters, Glinda and Elphaba, for their film debut. Unlike the traditional stage actors, the film cast presented unique features that required thoughtful adjustments. For example, Ariana Grande, who portrays Glinda, has dark hair and eyes that contrast sharply with the character’s usual light aesthetic. Meanwhile, Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba demanded a strikingly authentic green look, rather than simply being painted green, to fully immerse viewers in the fantastical realm of Wicked.

Insights from the Creative Process

During the interview, Hannon shares the creative inspiration behind Ariana Grande’s character design, explains the importance of prosthetic ears for Cynthia Erivo’s transformation, and even teases a hairstyle that Grande won’t be showcasing in the film.

Delve into the Enchantment

As you dive into the magical world of Wicked, take a moment to appreciate the artistry and dedication that Frances Hannon pours into bringing these iconic characters to life through her exceptional creativity and talent.