Stunning Prosthetic Makeup Transforms Nose, Brow, and Jaw
Prosthetic makeup has evolved as an art form, allowing designers to create striking transformations in film. Recent insights from three prominent makeup designers reveal the intricate process involved in altering facial features to enhance character portrayal.
Transformative Power of Prosthetic Makeup
- Designers Involved: Kazu Hiro, Mike Hill, and Dave Elsey are recognized for their expertise in this field.
- Recent Projects: Notable works include “The Smashing Machine” and “Frankenstein.”
The process typically begins with a 3D scan of the actor’s face, allowing for precise fitting of the prosthetics. This method helps create realistic alterations while ensuring the actor can continue to perform believably.
Transformations in “The Smashing Machine”
In “The Smashing Machine,” Kazu Hiro faced the task of transforming Dwayne Johnson to resemble real-life figure Mark Carr. Hiro developed two prosthetic options for director Benny Safdie. One was heavier and more accurate, while the other was lighter and quicker to apply. Hiro focused on the browline, understanding that eyes convey much of a character’s emotion and identity.
Hiro designed a unique brow cover with a hollow core. This innovative approach allowed Johnson to blink naturally while wearing the piece. By altering Johnson’s brow and eye shape, Hiro effectively age-enhanced the character, making him look closer in appearance to Carr.
Creative Solutions for “Frankenstein”
Mike Hill’s work on “Frankenstein” involved crafting a new facial structure for actor Jacob Elordi. Hill praised Elordi’s strong features, particularly his chin and large eyes, which facilitated the transformation. He made significant changes, including new cheeks, forehead, and nose, all while ensuring that Elordi’s expressiveness was preserved.
Hill emphasized the importance of working with the actor’s natural attributes to create a convincing character. The design used scars strategically to draw attention to Elordi’s eyes, enhancing the transformation while maintaining a natural look.
The Classic Role of the Nose
Dave Elsey, with a diverse portfolio that includes projects like the “Star Wars” prequels, highlighted the impact of altering a nose in prosthetic design. He noted that changing the nose can significantly alter a character’s identity and perception. Variations in nose shape can tell different stories, as evidenced by the comedic disguises in the Pink Panther films.
Elsey explained that creating prosthetics is a collaborative process. Every detail, from sculpting to painting, contributes to character development. Designers strive to balance recognizable features with the actor’s performance, ensuring that the transformation enables the actor to embody their character fully.
Conclusion
Prosthetic makeup is a powerful tool in the film industry, enabling remarkable character transformations. The insights of Kazu Hiro, Mike Hill, and Dave Elsey showcase how a thoughtful approach to facial alterations can enhance storytelling while maintaining the integrity of the actor’s performance. Each project presents unique challenges, but the ultimate goal remains the same: to create unforgettable characters that resonate with audiences.
