Why SFX makeup artists deserve the spotlight in an AI-dominated age

In the glitz and glamour of Bollywood, it's easy to focus solely on the stars, their expressions, dialogues, and performances. But behind the scenes, another set of artists work their magic, crafting appearances so realistic and powerful that they often steal the show. These are the special effects (SFX) makeup artists, masters of transformation whose work is essential in bringing characters to life.

Recently, Akshay Kumar stirred conversations on social media when he unveiled his dramatic Kathakali dancer look for ‘Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh’. While the image was a testament to his versatility as an actor, it was also a perfect example of the brilliance of makeup. From the fine detailing to the vibrant colors, every element of the look spoke volumes about the hard work and artistic skill involved.

It also served as a timely reminder that, in an era increasingly leaning on digital effects and artificial intelligence, traditional makeup artistry still holds immense value and heart.

The masters behind the magic

Take ‘Paa’ for example. In this emotional drama, Amitabh Bachchan played Auro, a child suffering from progeria, a rare genetic condition that causes rapid aging. To achieve this unbelievable transformation, Hollywood makeup experts Christien Tinsley and Dominie Till worked meticulously, crafting layers of prosthetics and details that completely masked the veteran actor’s real age and features. Their effort was so remarkable that it earned the film a National Award in 2009.

Similarly, in ‘Raabta’, Rajkummar Rao stunned audiences with a brief but unforgettable appearance as a 324-year-old man. This incredible look was the work of Zuby Johal and Rajiv Subba from Dirty Hands Studio, who used heavy prosthetics to create a visually-arresting character.

Then there’s the unforgettable transformation of Rishi Kapoor in ‘Kapoor & Sons’. Legendary Hollywood makeup artist Greg Cannom, known for his Oscar-winning work, spent nearly five hours each day aging Kapoor into a convincing 90-year-old man. The result? A character so authentic, audiences believed it was a completely different person.

Preserving an art form in the age of AI

In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, there’s increasing reliance on CGI and AI tools to manipulate appearances. While technology offers endless possibilities, it’s important to recognize that the craft of SFX makeup is irreplaceable. It brings a tangible, human touch that digital effects often can’t replicate.

Given how this could easily become a lost art in the age of automation, isn't it time we truly appreciate and spotlight the brilliance of these behind-the-scenes artists? Their tools may include brushes and prosthetics, but what they really create is magic—one transformation at a time.