Special Makeup Effects for Stage and Screen: Making and Applying Prosthetics

My only regret is that it wasn't out 20 years ago. I could have paid for the book several times over in the trial and error of early projects that this book would have answered.I first had the digital version of the first print of this book. Get the book itself, you'll be thankful that you did.It doesn't promise to be an absolute authority on the techniques, and he'll tell you why he feels one way or another if it feels like he's steering you. It's very concise in its delivery of instructions and steps, but also packs in the theory and experience anecdotes that make for a fun, and entertaining learning experience. It has an average of 3 photos per open section.Every time I found myself asking a question of "yes, but about..." - it was usually answered, quickly.I have several how-to books on various subjects, and this one is probably the best on any topic that I've seen. The author writes well, and makes considerations for the various what-ifs one may encounter. The format of the book is very clean, and airy so you won't get bogged down reading an instructional.The book is so well done that I was happy when I found a small typo some few hundred pages in. It won't cover everything; for instance while it shows you how to do tattoo makeup and transfers, it doesn't expand upon the various styles and techniques found in tattooing. That's all the negative I could manufacture. It's a stand-alone, one-stop book. Where the book addresses the core concepts in the book such as lifecasting, the various make-up techniques, and recipes - it's a solid tome of information and you'd be hard-pressed to need to go elsewhere for further comprehension.The price of the book might scare some people away, but if you have any sort of serious interest in any of the subjects covered within, it's far less than you would pay for a college textbook and this book could be one. It's close to 500 pages, and none of it was fluff that you so commonly find in many how-to's. The trial and error you'll spend in a lower priced book will cost you more than double the price, and not to mention time and frustration. You'll walk away from this book, confident.

I think I have probably been doing Special Makeup Effects longer than most people reading this have been alive. Well, more than likely they were in diapers at the very least.This is the UPDATED and EXPANDED book of Mr. Decbrecini's Special Makeup Effects for the Stage and Screen. It is much thicker than the previous version!It is a book I refer to constantly, especially now that it has new chapters on various subjects not covered in the first edition. Even after all these years, I have learned things from this book that (wait for it.......) I DID NOT KNOW! Incredible as that may sound, it's true. You see, Mr. Debrecini not only freely shares his own vast knowledge of the subjects, but presents to us the experience, know-how, tips, tricks and techniques of some of the WORLD'S best makeup effects artists. The list of contributors is extremely impressive - you'll recongnize names instantly. Award winning contributors, the people we all admire as we strive to attain their level of expertise in this industry. They too, are your tutors in this wonderful book.The best part of this book is that Todd has made it EASY to understand. When there are technical terms or procedures, he breaks it down into everyday language and gives you the "how" and, more importantly, the "WHY" of things.As I said in my review of his first book, I will say again: "If I had Todd's book when I first started out in this business, you never would have heard nearly as much about a guy named Rick Baker." :)As a young kid starting out I ordered the book that also started the journey for so many special makeup effects artists: Dick Smith's Monster Makeup Handbook. I ran as fast as I could out to the mailbox every single day for nearly six weeks, out of breath and tingling with exitement, until the glorious day it finally arrived.I did the same with Todd's book this month after I ordered it from Amazon. I just run a little slower nowadays.

I bought this book a little while ago and it probably is one of my best investments. This book covers everything that you would want to know and more. I'm just starting out as a special makeup effects artiest and this book has made my life 100X easier. I no longer need to guess on how to do something and get it after several different attempts I can just look it up in the book and use it as guide.The author of this book suggests to have the binding cut off and get it spiral bound so that it can lay flat while your working with it, so I did this but I had mine cut in half at chapter 6 and then spiral bound both of them now I can see two different chapters at the same time while working I highly suggest doing this with your book as well.Pros: Everything that you will learn from this book and all the tips it provides.Cons: There really are none.

A hefty paperback book that is one part brilliant step-by-step instruction, many parts learning, and another part meet the masters. Vivid color photos throughout. This is exactly the industry introduction book that I was looking for to begin my personal journey into prosthetics and make up effects. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

This is the most comprehensive FX book currently on the market. A worthy second addition, with up-to-date information. This book includes a Glossary of the most important terms, and the Appendices includes essential material lists and suppliers across the USA/UK. With some of the best SFX artists in the business Todd includes all-techniques: from basic to advanced. All the make-up "greats" recommend it. Hat's off to Todd for his tireless efforts. It is a legacy to budding artist and is worth every penny! All future make-up SFX artist will want this ready reference. It will not stay on the shelf.

Great book to learn about prostetics and special effects make up. Color pictures and useful recipes at the end. I can't wait to try it all!

Me encantó la descripción detallada de cada trabajo de caracterización y como te lleva de la mano, muy buena adquisición

My daughter is just starting out in the special effects business and works for a top special effects studio. She found this very helpful and has already marked it up with many sticky notes! She loves it .. very easy to read and invaluable for someone in the business!

Great book

This book is perfect! Full of useful information, images and tips. Most likely the best manual for starting sfx artist. I highly recommend this to anyone interested in the subject. Shipping was fast and punctual.