When director Stephen Ward chose Springfield as the backdrop for his latest movie, Dust to Malibu, it didn’t just capture a location, it captured a community. For makeup head Caroline Murray, that meant translating the Ozarks’ natural beauty and the originality of its residents onto the big screen.
Q: How did you get your start in the makeup industry?
A: I started in theatre and really loved the entire behind-the-scenes process. While attending school for theatre, I branched out into makeup. I ended up pursuing additional training at Blanche Macdonald Centre in Canada. From there, I worked internationally, from the Caribbean to California. I remember, when I was younger, being inspired by films like Blade, where makeup played such a key role in shaping characters and effects. My favorite parts of my work are the collaborative nature of the job and the creativity I get to bring to projects.
Q: What drew you to Dust to Malibu, and what stood out to you about Springfield?
A: I met writer/director Stephen Ward a few years ago and fell in love with the script. When the opportunity came to join the project, I jumped in. I had never been to Springfield before, and honestly, I didn’t know what to expect. But the Ozarks are stunning and there’s something special about the landscape and the community. It feels so warm and genuine.
Q: How did Springfield influence the film’s overall style?
A: Makeup is always about storytelling. You look at a character’s background, such as where they live, what they have access to, and how they present themselves. I spent time observing people in the community, so the characters felt authentic. In Springfield, there’s a more natural, understated style. I leaned into that by using neutral tones and softer contrasts. You don’t see a lot of bold, vibrant looks in everyday life there, so we kept everything grounded and realistic.
Q: Can you share how makeup helps tell the characters’ story in the film?
A: One of the lead characters evolves throughout the film, so her look does, too. We started with a more tired, pale appearance to reflect where she is emotionally in the beginning. As she grows, we gradually brightened her look. Her hair and makeup choices, such as slightly undone pigtails and smudged eyeliner hint at deeper layers to her story. In makeup, it isn’t about perfection, it’s about a character’s raw truth.
Shelly Gibson, producer and Springfield native says, "As someone who grew up in Springfield, authenticity was my North Star. We didn’t want to just film here; we wanted to honor the real texture of my hometown. Caroline’s work reflects that genuine spirit."