In “The Scenario,” reporter Kirbie Johnson dives deep into the behind-the-scenes magic of popular movies and TV shows, exploring the artistry that goes into crafting intricate wigs and special effects makeup. This edition focuses on the fifth season of “Stranger Things,” featuring insights from Sarah Hindsgaul, the hair designer, and Eryn Krueger Mekash, the head of the makeup department. The conversation is rich with detail and reveals the fascinating processes behind the characters’ looks, particularly as the series reaches its grand finale after a decade of storytelling and creativity.
Reflecting on her own experience with the show, Johnson recounts her fascination with Millie Bobby Brown’s hair after season four. Brown had previously shaved her head to portray Eleven, and Johnson’s curiosity sparked a deeper exploration of how the show’s costuming evolved. Was Brown’s buzz cut real this time? The answer lay in an elaborate single-knot wig, a painstaking and costly creation. This turn of events showcased the depth of craftsmanship in the series, illustrating how the hair team ingeniously managed logistics amidst Brown’s busy filming schedule for other projects.
As Eleven’s character progressed, so did her hairstyle, particularly leading into the highly anticipated fifth season. Johnson highlights how the hair team cleverly reused wigs from earlier seasons to create continuity while also ensuring authenticity in the character’s journey. Hindsgaul humorously noted the exorbitant costs associated with their work, even jesting about the accumulation of wigs over the years. The creative reuse of these assets not only demonstrates resourcefulness but also embodies the show’s spirit of nostalgia and interconnected growth.
One standout transformation is Eleven’s “superhero” hairstyle, representing a pivotal moment in her story. Initially introduced as a child with a distinctive buzz cut, her slicked-back bun in the final season is a deliberate nod to her past. Hindsgaul reveals that this look was designed to help viewers draw parallels between the character’s evolution from season one to season five. The clean silhouette of her hair during dramatic scenes serves as a powerful reminder of Eleven’s journey and the safety she derives from her hair being pulled back, highlighting her resilience.
Beyond Eleven, the entire ensemble cast experienced significant transformations that reflect their personal development throughout the series. Each character’s hairstyle contributes to their narrative arcs, with special care taken to maintain continuity while also showcasing growth. Hindsgaul emphasizes the importance of these choices in conveying emotional depth and connecting with the audience, ensuring that viewers can feel the weight of their journeys through every twist and turn.
In summary, the world of “Stranger Things” is not just driven by its gripping storylines but is equally shaped by the intricate details of its hair and makeup choices. The collaboration between the talented teams behind these elements adds another layer to the storytelling, allowing for an immersive experience that resonates with fans. As viewers bid farewell to their favorite characters, the artistry of hair designers like Hindsgaul and Mekash remains an unforgettable aspect of the show, reminding us of the dedication and creativity that bring such beloved stories to life.
