"Mask"erading in the Movies

One cannot downplay the role of costumes in the success of a movie. In the ancient times, the symbol of two masks was used to denote Greek drama -- one joyful and the other sorrowful. In the drama of the ancient Greeks, the actors had to wear huge masks that amplified their voices. The audiences then were habituated to seeing characters as tall as seven feet thanks to their enormous masks and high shoes. After all, the characters had to be both visible and audible to the spectators.

In the world of today, with lighting, microphones, and video cameras, actors have it a lot easier. They can now literally dress for the part that they are playing. One may say that ultimately, the costumes add very little value to a movie. To combat that view, we have the old adage, "Clothes maketh the man." Clothes can also herald the success or failure of a movie. You might have a wonderful script with superb actors. However, if you happen to end up getting the look wrong, success will become somewhat uncertain. It is no wonder that stylists and costume designers are always in demand when it comes to today's movies. If you want an example of how the look of the actors can impact the success of a movie or TV show, Sex and the City is a great example.

As a result, the makers of the movie, Shakespeare in Love, dedicated much of their time and energy to recreating the Elizabethan times through the historic costumes that they used. Thanks to these efforts, the movie won the Academy Award for Best Costumes for their efforts. Apart from this, Titanic, Moulin Rouge, and Chicago are examples of relatively recent movies that worked extremely hard only to get the look right.

As for masks, they are the most popular accessory for superhero movies. However, Spiderman was one among many who tried to hide his identity in a mask. Remember how Robin Williams pretended to be a woman in Mrs. Doubtfire? That mask actually moved the story forward. More recently, we saw Gwyneth Paltrow don a similar mask in her portrayal of an overweight woman in the hit movie, Shallow Hal. If you love fantasies, the face of Harry Potter's arch enemy, Lord Voldemort is unforgettable. His mask is absolutely perfect for the character of "the one who is not to be named".

From the movies to costume parties, nobody can make do without masks. And movies such as The Man in the Iron Mask, and the Jim Carrey starrer, The Mask, have done much to add to its popularity.

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