Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild (MUAH) Awards: ‘Frankenstein, ‘One Battle After Another,’ ‘Sinners’ Take Top Wins

The artistry behind filmmaking was celebrated Saturday night at the 13th annual Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild (MUAHS) Awards, held at the Westin Bonaventure in Los Angeles. Three films—Frankenstein, One Battle After Another, and Sinners—dominated the awards, taking home top prizes in multiple categories.

A Night of Recognition for Film Craft

Sinners was recognised for both Best Period and/or Character Makeup and Hair Styling, highlighting its meticulous attention to detail in recreating a specific time, and aesthetic. One Battle After Another earned the award for Best Contemporary Make-Up and Hair Styling, acknowledging its skill in creating realistic and modern looks. Frankenstein received the award for Best Special Make-Up Prosthetics, a testament to the complex and imaginative effects work featured in the film.

Oscar Implications and Television Triumphs

The MUAHS Awards often serve as an indicator for the upcoming Academy Awards, and both Sinners and Frankenstein are already nominated for the Makeup and Hairstyling Oscar. They are joined by Kokuho, The Smashing Machine, and The Ugly Stepsister in the category.

Did You Know? The Make-Up Artists and Hair Stylists Guild (IATSE Local 706) represents over 1800 artisans in the entertainment industry worldwide.

The awards weren’t limited to feature films. NBC’s Saturday Night Live led the television categories with three wins, including recognition for its 50th Anniversary Special. Apple TV’s The Studio and Palm Royale each secured two awards, demonstrating excellence in both contemporary and period makeup and hair styling. Disney+’s Skeleton Crew also earned a double win in the Children and Teen Programming categories.

Lifetime Achievement Awards

The MUAHS Awards also honored industry veterans. Greg Nelson, known for his work on Raging Bull and Michael Jackson’s Thriller, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for Make-Up. Judy Alexander Cory, celebrated for her hairstyling in Forrest Gump and The Matrix, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for Hair Stylists.

Expert Insight: The MUAHS Awards are significant because they specifically recognise the often-unseen work of the artists who transform actors and create the visual worlds of film and television. These awards elevate the profile of these crucial roles within the industry.

Michael Johnston received the Vanguard Award, and Amy Madigan was honored with the Distinguished Artisan Award.

Frequently Asked Questions

What films won the top awards at the MUAHS Awards?

Frankenstein, One Battle After Another, and Sinners were the top winners, each receiving awards in multiple categories.

Which television show received the most awards?

Saturday Night Live led the television categories with three wins.

Who received Lifetime Achievement Awards?

Greg Nelson (Make-Up) and Judy Alexander Cory (Hair Stylists) were presented with Lifetime Achievement Awards.

As the awards season continues, will these MUAHS wins translate into Oscar success for Sinners and Frankenstein?