FANTASTIC FLESH: THE ART OF MAKE-UP EFX (2008)

“Fantastic Flesh” – the title alone sent tingly chills up my spine with fervid anticipation for what amazing knowledge that I, the viewer, was surely about to gain. A college course in Stage Makeup permanently imprinted an almost lustful desire for anything related to make-up effects. Who doesn’t want the inside scoop on that stuff?

That said, I don’t know what I was expecting exactly, but this documentary filmed and presented by the Starz television network left a flavorless and generic taste in my mouth. Sure, there are many snippets with well-known f/x artists and directors alike, but the exposure given to each is noticeably uneven. The majority of footage revolves around Greg Nicotero and Howard Berger (KNB Effects Group), which is a fine focal point but equal spots could’ve been allotted towards the other big boys in the business who are just as (if not more) important in the historical evolution of make-up artistry…especially with a running time of less than an hour!

The shorter interviews showcase the likes of legends Tom Savini, Dick Smith, Rob Bottin and horror mavens Joe Dante, Robert Rodriguez, John Landis, Eli Roth, Simon Pegg, Franka Darabont, etc. They debate on the argument “CG or not CG-that is the question.” Love is thrust towards Jack Pierce and Dick Smith, but leaves the viewer yearning for more on them.

The most intriguing segment of Fantastic Flesh is Dick Smith’s insightful interview. Considered to this very day to be the master of old age makeup, Dick’s work on Max von Sydow’s face in THE EXORCIST was so flawless that Max had trouble finding work afterward. Dick leaves us with words to chew on, “Your makeup is worthless if the actor doesn’t USE it.”

Closing credits indicate that this documentary was dedicated to the memory of Stan Winston, yet it was mostly all about KNB. If that isn’t a kick in the pants, I don’t know what is.