Welcome to the technical blog accompanying Indy Mogul’s Episode #14 (Fake Heads)! We had a blast creating this episode, and we hope you enjoy learning how to make your own convincing fake heads. Get creative and submit your fake head videos – we can’t wait to see what you come up with! If you have any project ideas you’d like to see us tackle, you can submit them here. And while you’re at it, be sure to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes to stay up-to-date with all our latest tutorials and behind-the-scenes content.
Creating Realistic Fake Heads: A Step-by-Step Guide
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating realistic fake heads for your film projects. Whether you’re aiming for a gruesome horror scene or a comedic effect, these techniques will help you achieve professional-looking results on a budget. From the initial shopping list to the final touches, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
Shopping List: Essential Materials for Your Fake Head
Before you start building your fake head, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials. Here’s a detailed shopping list to ensure you have everything on hand:
- Styrofoam Head: This will serve as the base for your fake head. You can find these at various craft stores or online retailers. We found the cheapest options at www.valuedisplay.com. Look for a size that closely matches the head size of your actor.
- Flesh-Colored Spray Paint: Achieving the right skin tone is crucial for realism. Since there isn’t a standard “fleshtone” spray paint, select a color that closely matches your actor’s complexion. Test the paint on a small area first to ensure it looks natural.
- Makeup Kit: A makeup kit with various flesh tones and red shades is essential for adding details and creating a lifelike appearance. Consider purchasing a basic makeup kit that includes foundation, concealer, blush, and various eyeshadow colors.
- Wig: Unless your actor is bald, you’ll need a wig to complete the look. Choose a wig that matches your actor’s hairstyle and color. You can find wigs at costume shops or online retailers.
- Accessories (Glasses, Mustaches, etc.): Distinctive accessories that can be worn by both the actor and the dummy head will enhance the illusion and help fool the viewer. Consider glasses, mustaches, hats, or other easily recognizable items.
- Fake Blood: No matter how you plan to “off” your dummy head, fake blood is a must-have. A simple recipe involves mixing corn syrup, red food coloring, and a splash of chocolate syrup for a realistic and palatable (though not recommended!) blood effect.
- Liquid Latex: Applying liquid latex to the styrofoam head adds a layer of “fleshiness” and helps to smooth out any imperfections on the surface. This will improve the overall realism of the final product.
- Craft Knife or Utility Knife: Essential for carving and modifying the styrofoam head to create the desired effects. Ensure the blade is sharp for clean and precise cuts.
- Hot Glue Gun and Glue Sticks: For securely attaching accessories, patching up any imperfections, and reinforcing any modifications you make to the head.
- Various Paintbrushes: Different sizes and shapes will be helpful for applying makeup, liquid latex, and detailing the head.
- Mixing Bowls and Spoons: For preparing fake blood, ballistics gel, and other mixtures.
The Creation of Realistic Fake Heads: A Detailed Process
As demonstrated in the episode, each fake head undergoes a similar initial treatment. This ensures a consistent base for further customization and special effects. The core steps include applying liquid latex, spray painting, and adding makeup details. Let’s break down each of these steps in detail:
- Applying Liquid Latex: Begin by applying two coats of liquid latex to the styrofoam head. This step is optional but highly recommended. The liquid latex fills in small bumps and imperfections on the styrofoam surface, creating a smoother and more realistic texture. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
- Spray Painting: Once the liquid latex is dry, apply a coat of flesh-colored spray paint. Ensure even coverage and avoid applying too much paint in one area, which can lead to drips and an uneven finish. Allow the paint to dry completely.
- Makeup Application: After the spray paint has dried, it’s time to add makeup details. Use your makeup kit to darken the lips, add blush to the cheeks, and apply a lighter flesh tone to the face. You can also darken the eyes and add eyebrows for added realism. If your head will be wearing glasses, you can skip the eye makeup as it will be covered. Having your actor sit next to you during this process can help you match their skin tone and features more accurately.
Here are some visual aids to guide you through the creation process:
Applying the base layers to the styrofoam head.
Smoothing out the liquid latex for a realistic texture.
Adding makeup details to enhance the realism of the fake head.
Multiple heads in various stages of completion.
The Destruction of the Heads: Rigging for Special Effects
Once your fake heads are created, it’s time to prepare them for destruction. Since the heads are cheap and relatively easy to modify, you can rig them in various ways to achieve different special effects. We experimented with three different rigging methods: a stabbing/impaling effect, a blood shooter, and a “ballistics gel brain” effect.
- Stabbing/Impaling Effect:
To create a stabbing or impaling effect, start by cutting a quarter out of the back of the head and hollowing it out. Create a tunnel leading to the right eye. Fill a freezer bag with fake blood and insert it into the empty space, taping it securely in place. During filming, simply puncture the head and the bag, allowing the fake blood to gush out for a dramatic effect.
Preparing the head for the stabbing effect.
- Blood Shooter:
For the blood shooter effect, we utilized blood shooters from a previous episode. Cut the head in half and tape the blood shooter nozzle to align with a small hole in the forehead of the dummy. This allows you to remotely trigger a burst of fake blood for a dynamic and surprising effect.
Installing the blood shooter mechanism.
- Ballistics Gel Brain:
The “ballistics gel brain” head is a visually striking effect, though it may be too sturdy depending on your desired outcome. Hollow out the head, creating a deep bowl by digging in from the top. Prepare DIY ballistics gel using water and Knox gelatin with a higher ratio of powder to water than usual. Pour the gel into the empty head about halfway, then lower a glass into the center and tape it in place. Once the gel hardens, remove the glass, leaving a pocket to fill with fake blood. Remember to spray the glass with cooking spray for easy removal.
Creating the mold for the ballistics gel brain.
Pouring the ballistics gel into the head.
Allowing the gel to set around the mold.
Filling the cavity with fake blood for the final effect.
Filming and Editing Tips for Maximum Impact
With your heads prepped for destruction, it’s time to get to filming. Remember to have extra sets of glasses and mustaches on hand, as some will likely be destroyed along with your heads. The key to making this effect look convincing lies in the editing. Fool the viewer by showing the real actor right before and right after you inflict mayhem on your dummy head.
Pro-Tip: Utilize quick cuts, creative camera angles, and sound effects to further enhance the illusion of violence and destruction.
Conclusion: Unleash Your Creativity
Creating realistic fake heads is a fun and rewarding project that can elevate your film productions. By following these steps and using your imagination, you can achieve impressive special effects on a budget. Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or just starting out, this guide provides the knowledge and inspiration you need to bring your vision to life. We encourage you to experiment with different techniques and share your results with the Indy Mogul community. Happy filmmaking!