Orestes Matacena, a renowned Argentine-American makeup artist, has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Matacena's fascination with the art of makeup began at a tender age, laying the foundation for a career that would span decades and transcend borders.
As a young man, Matacena's passion for makeup led him to hone his skills in the prestigious makeup academy, "La Maison de la Beauté", where he was mentored by some of the most respected professionals in the industry. His innate talent and dedication earned him a spot as an assistant to the renowned makeup artist, Alberto Oliveros, a position that would prove to be a turning point in his career.
Matacena's big break came when he was approached by the iconic film director, Martin Scorsese, to work on the makeup design for the 1980 film, "Raging Bull". This collaboration not only showcased Matacena's exceptional skills but also solidified his reputation as a master of his craft.
Throughout his illustrious career, Matacena has worked with some of the most celebrated names in the industry, including Francis Ford Coppola, Woody Allen, and Steven Spielberg. His work on films such as "The Godfather: Part III", "The Color Purple", and "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" has earned him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Makeup and Hairstyling.
In addition to his work in film, Matacena has also made a significant impact in the world of television, working on iconic series such as "Saturday Night Live" and "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson". His versatility and creativity have made him a sought-after artist, and his contributions to the world of entertainment have been truly remarkable.
Orestes Matacena, a celebrated thespian, has had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed film, television, and commercial directors, thereby solidifying his reputation as a versatile and accomplished actor.
His illustrious acting career began at the tender age of six, when he took on the starring role in the film "The Life of Billy the Kid," alongside a talented ensemble of young performers.
Matacena has had a prolific career as a film actor, taking on the role of the antagonist in a plethora of Hollywood studio films, with some of his most notable appearances including the 1994 blockbuster "The Mask", starring the incomparable Jim Carrey, and the 1992 drama "Diggstown", alongside esteemed actors James Woods and Louis Gossett Jr.
In addition to his work in film, Matacena has also made a significant impact in the world of commercial advertising, with an impressive total of 37 commercials to his name. Among these, a notable nine were directed by the acclaimed Marcus Nispel, whose body of work has been recognized and celebrated by the prestigious New York Museum of Modern Art, with his pieces forming a permanent part of the institution's esteemed collection.
Matacena's unwavering determination and perseverance have been instrumental in shaping his illustrious career, marked by a plethora of impressive accomplishments.
Notably, he made a significant splash in the film industry by writing, directing, producing, and editing his own feature film, "Tainted", which premiered in 1987.
Since then, Matacena has continued to make a lasting impact on the world of cinema, producing and directing a diverse range of films that have captivated audiences worldwide.
Some of his notable works include the 2008 production "In Plain View", the 2002 release "Sexgunsmoney@20", the 1999 film "Cuba Libre", the 1981 classic "Fatal Encounter", and the innovative project "Theater in the Parks".
Matacena is a multifaceted creative force, having penned a diverse array of plays and screenplays that showcase his remarkable versatility and artistic range.
Through his impressive body of work, Matacena has explored a multitude of genres, effortlessly transitioning between the realms of thrillers, dramas, comedies, horror, and action-adventures.
One of his most notable accomplishments is the play "Bitter Sugar", which premiered in 1996 and garnered widespread acclaim.
"Bitter Sugar" was subsequently showcased at the esteemed Human Rights Commission in Geneva, Switzerland, and the United States Congress, further solidifying Matacena's reputation as a masterful playwright.
His impressive repertoire of over 25 screenplays is a testament to his remarkable talent, and his ability to craft compelling narratives that captivate audiences across a wide range of genres.
Matacena's impressive resume is a reflection of his dedication to his craft, and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling.
Biography of Matteo Matacena:
Matteo Matacena's life story is a testament to his humble beginnings in Cuba, where he was born to Italian immigrant parents. Growing up on a sugar mill plantation, he formed an unshakeable bond with the country and its wildlife. This upbringing would later shape his unique perspective and entrepreneurial spirit. Despite his self-proclaimed identity as a "third-world country boy," his business partner, Orna Rachovitsky, affectionately refers to him as a "hillbilly in an Armani suit," highlighting the dichotomy between his down-to-earth roots and his refined sense of style.
Matacena's life was marked by a series of significant events, beginning with his involvement in the Cuban resistance movement against Fidel Castro's Communist regime. Despite the challenges and dangers he faced, Matacena persevered and eventually managed to escape the island, making his way to Mexico, where he would ultimately seek asylum. His journey did not end there, as he continued to push forward, eventually immigrating to the United States and beginning a new life.
As he settled into his new home, Matacena faced the realities of starting over, and he did so with characteristic determination. He worked a series of jobs to make ends meet, including stints as a dishwasher, short-order cook, and car salesman. However, it was his passion for the performing arts that ultimately led him to found his own theater company, marking a significant turning point in his career and personal life.
Through his experiences, Matacena demonstrated a remarkable capacity for resilience, adaptability, and creativity, qualities that would serve him well as he navigated the complexities of building a new life in a foreign land. Despite the obstacles he faced, Matacena remained committed to his artistic vision, and his tireless efforts would ultimately lead to the realization of his dreams.
Years later, Matacena would go on to become a successful American citizen, his legacy a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and a passion for the arts.
Matacena's enterprising nature propelled him to establish "Theater 66" in Miami, a remarkable endeavor that yielded a remarkable ten productions of original plays, each one a testament to his unwavering dedication to the world of theater. Building upon this success, he went on to found "The New York Theater of the Americas", a pioneering institution that has proudly presented an astonishing thirty-plus original plays, further cementing his reputation as a visionary leader in the world of the performing arts.
