(Image Source: The Hindu, The Indian Express, YouTube)
In recent years, Hindi film industry or ‘Bollywood’, as we popularly know it, has taken a drastic leap from traditional storytelling to a more believable portrayal of characters, especially in terms of makeup and appearance. Films like “Roohi” and “Pari” showcased transformative special effects (SFX) work, while films like “Dhoom 2” and “Paa” highlighted elaborate character makeovers, underscoring the growing prominence of special effects makeup artistry in Hindi film industry.
Special effects makeup has been a source of wonder and mystery since the early days of cinema. Unravel how SFX Makeup has journeyed through time.
Earlier, filmmakers often used materials like flour and glycerin to create 3D special effects for their characters. Slowly, with time and technological advances, latex and foam rubber came into existence and delivered more effective results.
Let’s understand the growing popularity of SFX artistry in Indian cinema especially in Bollywood.
The Rise of SFX Makeup in Hindi Film Industry
In the last two decades, the overall Indian cinema has undergone significant evolution from scripting and storytelling to presentation. Actors dancing around trees are no longer enticing or the secret recipe for a box office success. The preferences of the audience have evolved, with Hindi films garnering positive responses globally. One of the major changes that has influenced storytelling in Hindi film industry or Bollywood is the attempt to create striking, authentic and convincing looks that complement a script’s needs. This has led to filmmakers and producers focusing more on makeup and costume departments.
Bollywood Films: SFX Makeup That Blew Us Away
SFX makeup has played a pivotal role in bringing some of Bollywood’s most memorable characters and scenes to life.
Paa (2009)
In Paa, a heartfelt film by R. Balki, Amitabh Bachchan is shown as a progeria patient, with a rare genetic disorder that led to premature ageing. SFX makeup was instrumental in transforming Amitabh Bachchan into a 12-year-old boy. The prosthetics and makeup techniques were so advanced that the audience was convinced that the tall and veteran actor was but only a child. Undoubtedly, the film earned the actor a lot of critical acclaim.
(Source: Live Wire Pro)
Pari (2018)
The horror film Pari, starring Anushka Sharma, relied heavily on SFX makeup to create its chilling and eerie atmosphere. The supernatural elements were made more believable through grotesque fake blood, liquid latex, sticky wax and collodion, immersing the audience in a world of fear and suspense.
(Source: News18)
Chhapaak (2019)
Chhapaak showcased the emotional journey of an acid attack survivor, where SFX makeup was crucial in depicting the devastating impact of the attack on the protagonist. The realistic scars and disfigurement created through collodion, liquid latex, sticky wax, etc., primarily added depth and realism to the film, making it a powerful statement.
(Source: Hindustan Times)
Kapoor and Sons (2016)
A beautiful film about dysfunctional families, showcased Lt. Rishi Kapoor as a 90-year-old man for whom he had to look much older than his actual age. The makeup mainly involved the usage of liquid latex and a bit of wax, to create that extra wrinkled effect.
(Source: Hindustan Times)
Learn how to create realistic-looking scars in just a few simple steps!
The Future of SFX Makeup in Hindi Film Industry
The growing demand for more realistic and visually stunning effects, horror or fantasy fictional scripts in Bollywood is driving the rapid growth of SFX makeup. Nowadays, the audience expect more immersive or authentic experiences and so, filmmakers are now employing advanced makeup techniques to bring their characters to life.
At Uroparis, we are committed to providing high-quality SFX makeup products that empower makeup artists to push creative boundaries and elevate overall Indian cinema to new heights. Our professional-grade SFX makeup products, such as collodion and liquid latex, are essential in achieving these realistic effects. Whether creating life-like scars, transforming actors into entirely new personalities, or adding supernatural elements, our range of SFX makeup stands at the forefront of this makeup evolution.
New to SFX? Discover the five must-have products to kickstart your journey.
Elevate your makeup game with Uroparis’s professional SFX products, from fake blood to liquid latex. Whether a pro or an enthusiast, our tools help you create stunning, realistic effects. Bring your cinematic visions to life with Uroparis — start creating your masterpiece today and don’t forget to tag us @uroparis!
