This is it, the last “Last Looks”. On Tuesday a winner will be crowned and drive away in a new FIAT 500 while the remaining contestants will pack up their makeup kits and leave as the lights go out on the set of Face Off for the final time.
Thirteen seasons is a good run, sure I could be greedy and ask for more, but the show is going out on a high note, with an all-star season. Never having to rely on weird gimmicks, crazy twists, or a revolving door of judges, SyFy’s Face Off has been a consistently enjoyable reality competition since its debut in 2011.
In honor of the show’s series finale, here’s thirteen things, in no particular order, that I loved and I’ll also miss about Face Off:
The final creations
This is why I watch, for the creativity and talent, check out every creature and makeup here.
The crazy imaginative backstories for the contestants’ creations
Dethroned king of a fictional planet? Sure, why not. Sea creature-inspired warrior who collects souls of their victims? That works too. I’m always blown away at the detailed backstory these artists come up with in such a short period of time.
The fabrication of everything from wings to weapons
As much as I enjoy watching the makeup application and the molding process, I really love seeing the contestants fabricate props and other pieces. As someone who is constantly trying to step up their Halloween costume game, I’ve been taking notes.
The camaraderie between contestants
Although most seasons have been individual competitions, the contestants have always shown a willingness to lend a helping hand whether that be in a literal sense, by helping to pry open a mold or offer guidance on a directionless design. For me, the lack of interpersonal drama has alway been one of Face Off’s greatest qualities.
The end-of-day mold room drama
The only drama that exists on Face Off is right before the act break and it usually comes courtesy of a mold. Can they get it apart? Can they clean it out in time? Usually, yes.
The models, especially when they help during application
I’ve always wished the show did a behind the scenes special with the models, especially since a handful of them have been on the show season after season. In lieu of that, here’s an interview with two of the models that gives some insight into the actual application day process.
The qualified guest judges like Doug Jones
SyFy’s Face Off hasn’t ever been about stunt casting or ratings grabs, the guest judges and other people who have made an appearance are industry titans in their own right. I applaud the show for bringing in people with real experience and insight into the business. Plus, Doug Jones! Even a lay person like myself can recognize his greatness.
Mr. Westmore’s advice
Who doesn’t love a nudge in the right direction or confirmation that you’re on the right track? For years now, Mr. Westmore has provided just that, happily sharing his years of experience with these up and coming artists. Want more insights from the man, the myth, the legend, check out his book Makeup Man.
McKenzie Westmore greeting the contestants in random locations
I love how most episodes begin with the contestants being dropped off in vague and random locations like the woods or a warehouse and then McKenzie has to sell the hell out of the theme of the week based on a few props and some mood lighting. The show’s budget hasn’t ever been huge, but they do what they can. I find it charming.
Live-tweeting with fellow fans & current contestants
#FaceOff on Twitter.
The talented panel of judges
Seriously, check out their IMDB pages: Glenn Hetrick, Ve Neill, Neville Page, Patrick Tatopoulos, and Lois Burwell.
The episode where the judges had to compete
A couple of seasons ago there was a “Judge Match” that pitted Ve vs. Glenn vs. Neville. It was great fun to watch them not only work their magic, but also complain about the time restraints.
And of course Glenn Hetrick’s unreadable expression at the judge’s table
