Cici Andersen

Cici Andersen is the makeup department head for the highly anticipated comedy Together Together which is showcasing at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival.

Cici is both a makeup and hair designer, with experience in and a love for special effects makeup as well. She has worked on a number of large and impressive projects, and with a number of celebrities like Elijah Wood and Madelaine Petsch.

When Cici is not busy on set or with clients, she is earning her title of “beauty culturalist” with her series of YouTube videos that give in depth history of vintage makeup products, different beauty trends, and other fashion topics.

Her passion is more than evident in all of the projects she pursues.

Vocal readers, please enjoy our interview!

Tammy Reese:

What inspired you to become a makeup artist and hair designer?

Cici Andersen:

I think most little girls like to play in their mom's makeup, but I first learned how creative makeup can get when I was doing theatre in High School. I'd help my fellow actors apply their looks, and they seemed to think I had a knack for it.

"Getting ready" always felt like such a sacred ritual to me. It's not lost on me that this ritual of powder, paint, and haircare is thousands of years old. A sort of magic happens when you put certain colors on and start to manipulate your look.

It's like armor. You invoke this new feeling, and it can make you feel like a different person or even like you're not of this world. It's very powerful.

Tammy Reese:

How did your becoming a Makeup Department Head for Together Together come about?

Cici Andersen:

Toby Louie, one of the producers for the film, had reached out and asked me to come pitch myself. We had worked together previously and I think he thought I'd be a good fit. He sent me the script and it had such a sweet and tender feel to it.

Nikole Beckwith, the director, and writer, is not only a brilliant wordsmith, but she's also all heart, and you can feel it in every word. I'd never done a film like that before and thought it would be fun to do something different.

Tammy Reese:

Describe your makeup style for the film in 3 words.

Cici Andersen:

Subtle changes work.

Tammy Reese:

Why do you think Sundance attendees should watch Together Together?

Cici Andersen:

I can't think of a better movie to watch during a pandemic. This movie is about LIFE and about making the most of it. It's sweet and touches on a reality that doesn't get talked about a lot.

Tammy Reese:

What do you love most about the work that you do?

Cici Andersen:

Both in film and in my work as a content creator, the friendships I've made is my favorite aspect aside from the technique and history of cosmetic application.

I'm still in touch with folks who gave me my very first opportunities in the industry and we've stuck together during the good and the bad. Today I'm still in touch with a lot of the crew from Together Together.

Jennifer Cabezas, who was my right hand on the film, Amy Wilson (the hair department head) and I have continued to work together even long after we wrapped. Frank Barrera, our DP, and I have been meaning to collaborate on another project... I think we gotta get that going!

Tammy Reese:

What was your experience like working with Elijah Wood?

Cici Andersen:

I worked on Elijah for a Danko Jones music video called "I Think Bad Thoughts". The Diamond Brothers brought me in for that and I was over the moon!! It was such a cool experience.

Elijah was beyond sweet and sat very well for me while I groomed him. I think he could tell I was nervous. He was one of the first celebrities I ever got to work with.

That video was a dream come true. Jenna Malone and Ralph Macchio also make an appearance, and who doesn't love the Karate Kid?!

Tammy Reese:

What are some tips for makeup artists who are working during the pandemic?

Cici Andersen:

I wear an N-95 mask and face shield when I work. Sanitize the bejeezus out of everything. It's also a good idea to try to stick to working with people you trust or have good regulations in place.

Unions have their protocols in place, but it can be scary for other freelancers out there. I listed some standard protocols on my website after I researched it for myself using OSHA, and WHO recommendations, if anyone's interested.

Tammy Reese:

Any general make up trending tips for winter or spring?

Cici Andersen:

Good skincare never goes out of style which is brilliant, because I don't see this pandemic letting up for the spring. If I am running errands I'll throw on some colorful eyeliner.

It's also a good time to perfect your brow game. If you're lucky to have a pod to socialize in, lip stains could be your best friend when going between masking/zooming/and family dinner.

To learn more about Cici, please visit her website.