How did you get involved with the last of Robin Hood?
I have been Susan Sarandon’s makeup artist for over 20 years. When she told me about a ’50s project that was on the table that would chronicle the last days in the life of legendary actor Errol Flynn, I smiled. “The character is way out there, bright red lipstick, cat shaped ’50s eyeglasses, often time drunk, platinum wig and a wooden leg,” she said. What could I say but, “Yes! I’ll be there with you on this one.” The co-directors were gracious men, absorbed with visual and narrative detail.  I personally executed Susan Sarandon and Kevin Klein’s makeup; it was the first time I did Kevin’s makeup.  He embodied the character, Errol Flynn, and resembled him, so I simply had to emphasize a few bones, create the illusion of a bigger, wider heard – a bit squarer in a few areas – plus add a few tonal layers and colors. Nick London, the key makeup artist, did an exquisite job executing Dakota Fanning’s makeup. We also had a wonderful team of makeup artist from Atlanta who created a flawless ’50s look on all background party scenes.

Where did you draw your makeup inspiration from?
I drew the inspiration for Susan (Florence Aadland) and Kevin’s makeup from Aadland and Flynn’s archival photos, from the years 1957-1959. They were in the newspaper many times; photos of Florence at the airport when she was arrested accompanied by her lawyer, at parties, etc. She was quite stylish and wore a signature bright lipstick.  There were many photos available to derive a sense of her “made up/going out face.” I also like to look at advertisements from the period to see what average women were looking at because they would have emulated and copied the magazines.

Were there any key products you couldn’t have done this film without?
I definitely needed the Joe Blasco tanning creams from the actual ’50s. >> Pick up a copy of Fall 2014 issue for Kalaadevi list of products she use to accomplish a ’50s look

Words: Shannon Levy