Tina Turnbow's Stranger Things Secrets
Hey there, Stranger Things fans! Ever wondered about the magic behind the amazing looks of your favorite characters? Well, today, we're diving deep into the world of Tina Turnbow, the incredible makeup artist who's been a key player in bringing the Stranger Things aesthetic to life. This article will explore her journey, her inspirations, and the secrets behind creating those iconic looks we all know and love.
Who is Tina Turnbow?
Tina Turnbow is a highly acclaimed makeup artist with an impressive portfolio that spans across film, television, and editorial work. Her talent and expertise have made her a sought-after name in the industry. But what exactly makes her work so special, especially on a show as visually captivating as Stranger Things? Turnbow's approach goes beyond simply applying makeup; she's a storyteller. She understands how makeup can enhance a character's personality and contribute to the overall narrative. Her work is subtle yet impactful, creating looks that feel authentic to the 1980s setting of the show while also highlighting the unique traits of each character.
Turnbow's journey into the world of makeup artistry is fascinating. Her passion for beauty and transformation began early in her life, leading her to pursue a career where she could blend artistry with storytelling. Over the years, she has honed her skills, working on various projects that have shaped her into the expert she is today. Her ability to collaborate with actors and directors to bring their visions to life is one of her greatest strengths. She listens, interprets, and then translates ideas into stunning visual realities.
On Stranger Things, Turnbow’s role is pivotal. She’s responsible for designing and executing the makeup looks for the entire cast, from the core group of kids to the adult characters. This involves a deep understanding of each character’s background, personality, and journey throughout the series. It also requires a meticulous approach to detail, ensuring that every look is consistent with the show’s timeline and aesthetic. Her influence extends beyond just the actors; her work helps to define the overall visual language of the show, contributing to its distinctive and nostalgic feel. The dedication and artistry that Turnbow brings to Stranger Things are a testament to her skill and passion for her craft.
The 80s Influence and Inspiration
Stranger Things is renowned for its authentic portrayal of the 1980s, and Tina Turnbow's makeup artistry plays a crucial role in capturing this iconic era. The 1980s were a time of bold and expressive makeup trends, from vibrant eyeshadows and blush to daring lip colors. Turnbow masterfully incorporates these trends while ensuring they complement each character's personality and the overall tone of the show. To truly capture the essence of the 80s, Turnbow delves into extensive research. She studies vintage magazines, movies, and pop culture references to understand the nuances of the decade's beauty trends. This deep dive allows her to create looks that are not only accurate but also feel genuinely nostalgic.
The makeup in Stranger Things isn't just about replicating trends; it's about storytelling. Each character’s makeup reflects their personality, their circumstances, and their evolution throughout the series. For example, a character like Nancy Wheeler, who starts as a more traditional and polished teenager, might sport classic 80s looks like pastel eyeshadows and defined brows. As her character evolves and faces more challenges, her makeup might become more subdued, reflecting her growing maturity and resilience. The devil is truly in the details, and Turnbow ensures that every shade, every line, and every texture contributes to the narrative.
Beyond specific trends, Turnbow also focuses on the overall aesthetic of the 80s. This includes understanding the cultural influences and the products that were popular during that time. From the dewy skin and bright blush favored by many to the bold lipsticks and graphic eyeliners, Turnbow captures the spirit of the decade. One of the biggest challenges in recreating the 80s is avoiding clichés. While the era is known for its bold looks, it’s important to ensure that the makeup doesn’t feel like a costume. Turnbow strikes a perfect balance, incorporating iconic trends in a way that feels authentic and natural within the context of the show. By doing so, she helps to transport viewers back in time, immersing them in the world of Stranger Things.
Key Character Looks and How They Were Created
One of the standout aspects of Tina Turnbow’s work on Stranger Things is her ability to craft distinct and memorable looks for each character. Let's explore some key character transformations and the secrets behind their iconic makeup styles.
Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown): Eleven's look is perhaps the most iconic in the series, and it's a testament to Turnbow's ability to convey a character's journey through makeup. In the early seasons, Eleven's makeup is minimal, reflecting her vulnerable and mysterious nature. Pale skin, subtle freckles, and occasionally a touch of smudged eyeliner are her signatures. This understated look helps to emphasize Millie Bobby Brown's expressive eyes and allows her performance to shine. As Eleven evolves, so does her makeup. In later seasons, we see her experimenting with more 80s-inspired styles, such as brighter eyeshadows and bolder lip colors, reflecting her growing confidence and integration into the world. Even these bolder looks are carefully chosen to feel authentic to her character's journey and the specific situations she faces.
Nancy Wheeler (Natalia Dyer): Nancy’s makeup journey is a fascinating reflection of her character’s growth. In the initial seasons, Nancy sports a classic 80s preppy look, with neatly defined brows, pastel eyeshadows, and a touch of blush. This makeup style perfectly captures her initial role as the responsible and polished older sister. As Nancy becomes more involved in the supernatural mysteries of Hawkins, her makeup evolves. We see her experimenting with darker eyeliners and bolder lipsticks, reflecting her growing independence and determination. Turnbow uses makeup to subtly highlight Nancy’s inner strength and resilience, showing how her character transforms under pressure.
Joyce Byers (Winona Ryder): Joyce Byers, played by the ever-talented Winona Ryder, has a makeup style that reflects her character's emotional journey. Initially, Joyce’s look is understated, with minimal makeup and a focus on natural skin. This simplicity conveys her working-class background and her initial desperation and vulnerability. As the series progresses, Joyce's makeup remains subtle, but Turnbow uses it to highlight her strength and determination. A touch of mascara and a natural lip color help to bring out Winona Ryder’s expressive features, emphasizing Joyce's fierce protectiveness of her children. The makeup choices ensure that Joyce always looks realistic and relatable, even in the most extraordinary circumstances.
Challenges and Triumphs
Working on a show as ambitious as Stranger Things comes with its own set of challenges, but Tina Turnbow has consistently risen to the occasion. One of the primary challenges is maintaining continuity across multiple seasons and ensuring that the makeup accurately reflects the characters' aging and evolving circumstances. This requires a meticulous approach to detail and a deep understanding of the show's timeline. Turnbow and her team carefully track each character's makeup look, making subtle adjustments to reflect their growth and the passage of time. This attention to detail is crucial for maintaining the show's authenticity and believability.
Another significant challenge is working with a large ensemble cast and ensuring that each actor's makeup is tailored to their individual features and character arc. This requires a collaborative approach, with Turnbow working closely with the actors to understand their perspectives and preferences. She also collaborates with the costume and hair departments to create a cohesive and visually stunning look for each character. The success of Stranger Things' makeup is a testament to this teamwork and Turnbow’s ability to bring together different creative visions.
Despite these challenges, Turnbow has achieved numerous triumphs on the show. Her ability to seamlessly blend 80s makeup trends with the unique needs of each character is a major accomplishment. She has created iconic looks that not only enhance the actors' performances but also contribute to the overall aesthetic of the show. Turnbow's work has been widely praised by fans and critics alike, and she has become a respected figure in the industry. Her dedication, creativity, and attention to detail have made her an indispensable part of the Stranger Things team, and her contributions have played a significant role in the show's success.
Tips for Recreating Stranger Things Makeup
Inspired by the incredible makeup looks on Stranger Things? You're not alone! Many fans want to recreate the show's iconic styles, whether for a costume party, a themed event, or just for fun. Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve that 80s Stranger Things magic.
Embrace the 80s Vibe: The first step in recreating Stranger Things makeup is to immerse yourself in the 80s aesthetic. This means doing your research and understanding the key trends of the decade. Think bright eyeshadows, bold lip colors, defined brows, and a healthy dose of blush. Look at vintage magazines, movies, and music videos for inspiration. Pay attention to the specific products and techniques that were popular during that time. Remember, the 80s were all about expressing yourself, so don't be afraid to experiment and have fun!
Start with a Flawless Base: Like any great makeup look, a solid foundation is essential. For an 80s-inspired look, focus on achieving a natural, healthy-looking complexion. Use a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer to even out your skin tone. Conceal any blemishes or dark circles with a concealer that matches your skin tone. Don't go too heavy on the coverage; the goal is to look fresh and radiant. Set your base with a translucent powder to control shine and ensure your makeup lasts throughout the day or night.
Eyes are the Windows: Eyeshadow is where you can really play with 80s trends. Bright colors like blues, pinks, and purples were all the rage. Experiment with different shades and combinations to find what works best for your skin tone and eye color. Don't be afraid to go bold! Blend your eyeshadows well to avoid harsh lines. Eyeliner is another key element of 80s makeup. Use a pencil or liquid liner to define your lash line. You can create a classic winged liner or opt for a more smudged, rock-and-roll look. Mascara is a must to add volume and length to your lashes. Apply several coats for a dramatic effect.
Brows and Blush: Defined brows were a staple of 80s makeup. Use a brow pencil or powder to fill in any sparse areas and shape your brows. Don't go too over-the-top; the goal is to create a natural but polished look. Blush is another essential element. Apply a generous amount of blush to the apples of your cheeks for a healthy, youthful glow. Pinks, peaches, and corals are all great choices. Blend your blush well to avoid harsh lines and create a seamless finish.
Lips that Pop: Bold lip colors were a signature of the 80s, so don't be afraid to go for a bright lipstick. Pinks, reds, and corals are all classic choices. Use a lip liner to define your lips and prevent your lipstick from bleeding. Apply your lipstick with a lip brush for a precise and even application. Blot your lips with a tissue and apply another coat of lipstick for long-lasting color. You can also add a touch of lip gloss for extra shine.
By following these tips, you can channel your inner Tina Turnbow and recreate the iconic makeup looks of Stranger Things. Remember, makeup is all about having fun and expressing yourself, so don't be afraid to experiment and make the look your own!
In conclusion, Tina Turnbow's work on Stranger Things is a masterclass in makeup artistry. Her ability to capture the essence of the 1980s while enhancing the characters' personalities and stories is truly remarkable. From Eleven's subtle vulnerability to Nancy's evolving strength, Turnbow's makeup choices are integral to the show's success. So next time you're watching Stranger Things, take a moment to appreciate the artistry behind the looks – it's a key ingredient in the show's magic.
For more information on makeup artistry and the world of film and television makeup, check out resources like The Makeup Artist's Handbook.
