Oscar-winning makeup artist Kazu Hiro recently expressed regret and apologized for the backlash caused by a prosthetic nose in the film Maestro, which aims to portray the life and career of renowned composer Leonard Bernstein. Hiro, who intended for the nose to be an authentic portrayal of Bernstein’s distinct physical features, expressed sorrow over hurting people’s feelings.
Hiro, known for his exceptional skills in makeup and hairstyling, has previously won prestigious Academy Awards for his work in films such as Darkest Hour and Bombshell. In Maestro, his expertise was enlisted to transform actor Bradley Cooper into the iconic composer, which included the creation of the controversial prosthetic nose.
Concerns about the prosthetic nose being anti-Semitic were raised on various social media platforms. However, Bernstein’s children came forward to defend the decision, expressing their approval of how their father was presented in the film. They also stated that Bernstein himself would have been accepting of it.
Despite the controversy, Hiro praised Cooper’s dedication to the project, highlighting his commitment to early starts and extended hours in the makeup chair. Cooper’s dedication to accurately portraying Bernstein’s physical attributes and persona was admirable in Hiro’s view.
Directed by Adam McKay and co-produced by acclaimed filmmaker Steven Spielberg, Maestro is set for a limited theatrical run before its release on Netflix on December 2nd. The film delves into the life of Leonard Bernstein, a prolific composer and conductor who left an indelible mark on the world of music and the arts.
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