Crossword Genius

Feature film put on before a big fight (3,5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

war paint

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'feature film' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

'on before a big fight' is the wordplay.
'on' says to put letters next to each other.
'before' becomes 'paint' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should give a lot more credence to this answer).
'a big fight' becomes 'war' (I've seen this in another clue).
'paint' after 'war' is 'WAR-PAINT'.

'put' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for war paint that I've seen before include "Make-up (for native Americans?)" , "what woman may have to face" , "Cosmetics" , "Make-up (colloq.)" , "Facial decoration showing hostile intent" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
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