In FX’s “What We Do In The Shadows,” the task of creating life, much like Lazlo Cravensworth’s grand ambitions, is anything but subtle. Paul Jones, the show’s prosthetics makeup and creature effects designer, highlights the mockumentary style that dictates the need for bold and comedic designs. Jones explained that due to the show’s rapid pacing and humorous storytelling, his work must be visible and impactful on camera.
For Season 6, Lazlo’s attempt to engineer life from deceased flesh required a striking approach. Jones aimed for designs that could be clearly understood from a distance, emphasizing body parts that appear stitched or stapled together. The process involved creating various versions of Cravensworth’s Monster, including a headless variant for a tank and removable-head versions for comedic moments.
Each prosthetic piece had to be freshly made for every application due to their fragility. Jones had to ensure the designs were user-friendly, which included innovative methods like using specially laminated lead tape to create visible staples on the monster’s limbs, avoiding the need for daily paint touch-ups.
While working under a tight schedule, the team sculpted the monster’s bodysuit generically, later customizing it to fit actor Andy Assaf. Practical adjustments were necessary; for example, an unintended gap on Assaf’s chest required rapid redesign to create a seamless appearance.
The creation of the monster was a collaborative effort involving a small team that completed the intricate designs within two months. Each episode brought new challenges, as the show continuously introduced different elements and characters.
Jones emphasizes the importance of humor in his work, giving the monster features that are both grotesque and amusing. By combining various skin tones and body parts, he aimed to reflect Lazlo’s artistic yet unrefined approach in building his creations. The final product embodies a bizarre beauty, balancing the macabre with comedic elements.
“What We Do In The Shadows” is available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+.