Jim Carrey's The Mask is an iconic film of the '90s by blending adult humor with the classic tropes found in early animation. From top to bottom, the comic book film is a prime example of taking the source material and adapting it into something that maintains the spirit but becomes more accessible to audiences. What's even more interesting is how certain aspects of the film have connections that add even more weight to the story or character. One great example of this is how The Mask's iconic yellow suit ties to Jim Carrey's past.
In the comics, Stanley Ipkiss comes across the mask and becomes the murderous villain known as Big Head when he puts it on. To make the film more accessible, The Mask was greatly toned down, turning Big Head into a mischievous anti-hero and Stanley into someone who fits the traditional nice guy trope. Throughout the film, Carrey makes both roles his own and balances his dual identities well, but it's also revealed in the book Famous Male Actors that his iconic suit also symbolizes the bond he has with his mother.
In the book, Carrey's career is explored as far back as his time as a stand-up comedian. The excerpt describes how he started in stand up at 16 and gained support from both parents to give it a shot, whether he succeeded or failed. As he worked on skits with his father, his mother fashioned a yellow polyester suit with tails reminiscent of the look seen in The Mask. Sadly, his first show at Yuk Yuk’s comedy club bombed but served as the first of many opportunities he would have to get into showbiz.
Throughout The Mask, Big Head goes through many outfit iterations. Typically they represent the situation he is in or the act he is performing. Whether dining with cops or wooing a lady, he always dresses the part. However, when it's time for him to make a mark or be a hero, he's always shown in his yellow suit. In a way, it shows that when the character his best self, he chooses to wear the suit that helped his actor get his start.
Ironically, the suit's symbolism in relation to Carrey's humble beginnings also shows the difficulties of being a hero. Rarely does a hero, in comics or movies, perfect the art of saving lives on the first day. Often, they will fail in many fashions before reaching a point of confidence in their work. Carrey is no different, as it took many successes and failures before getting his flow, but in that time, he's worn his best suit in the best of times and the worst.
Ultimately, The Mask has since become one of Carrey's most iconic performances thanks to his ability to move like a living cartoon and his comedic timing as the character. Plus, as he wears his yellow suit, it also represents how far he has come in his role and how, whether win or lose, he brings his family with him every step of the way. In the end, his growth, performances and suit showcase the importance of support as a person chases their dreams.