A lot of effort goes behind creating the bald look in films ( Photo Credit – Instagram )
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However it may seem, achieving that villainous bald look is not as easy as just shaving your head and going to bed. These striking transformations are the result of the tireless work of a group of talented makeup artists behind the scenes.
This year has seen a good number of bald villains, ranging from Emma Corrin’s ominous Cassandra Nova in Deadpool & Wolverine to Austin Butler’s terrifying portrayal of Feyd-Rautha in Dune: Part Two. However, how do they pull off such a convincing appearance?
The bald cap and the prosthesis are the two main techniques, according to experts in special effects makeup. Basically, a flexible piece of vinyl or rubber is attached to the actor’s head and blended into their skin to create the bald cap. While it is a quick and simple solution, it may not provide the same amount of detail as a prosthetic.
Conversely, prosthetics are manufactured to order using an actor’s head mold. It is possible to shape them to have fine characteristics like pores, wrinkles, and scars. Although it takes longer, the end effect is more believable and lifelike.
Applying a prosthesis or bald cap might take anywhere from three hours to forty-five minutes. Furthermore, even though the finished product can seem perfect on TV, the actors don’t always find it comfortable.
“There can be a noticeable chemical smell to adhesives and solvents,” explains Liz Tagg-Wooster, a cosmetics artist nominated for an Emmy. “The tight fit necessary for realism can cause discomfort or even headaches if worn for too long.”
Even with the difficulties, some actors like the procedure. For example, Austin Butler considered the experience to be a “gift” as an actor. “You sort of overlook it. You spend three hours in the chair, so you have the morning to gradually ramp up to the scene you’re going to film that day. It’s actually a pretty wonderful time, he said.
This might be an even more involved process for performers with long hair. Before putting on the bald cap or prosthetic, makeup artists frequently need to gently wrap or braid the hair. Furthermore, to guarantee a seamless appearance, digital touch-ups may be required in post-production even with the most expert application.
So keep in mind the numerous hours of labor that went into achieving that appearance the next time you’re admiring an actor’s bald transition in a movie. It’s evidence of the talent and expertise of the makeup artists working behind the scenes.
