Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1541402
26 • THE ARTISAN WINTER 2026 refine a look that felt both powerful and believable on screen. We knew Nicholas's naturally clear skin gave us a strong foundation, so we kept the prep simple—just enough to maintain balance and comfort during the demands of filming. Because his scalp was shaved daily, we built a routine around soothing recovery products before beginning any color work. The scalp design became a central focus. Matt developed a layered approach: starting with EBA airbrushing to neutralize undertones, then reintroducing warmth and subtle variation with PPI colors. This gave the skin dimensionality under harsh lighting and avoided a flat, cosmetic look. The goal was always a presence that felt polished but slightly unsettling—the essence of Lex. For the face, a warmer, more vibrant tone than Nicholas's natural complexion, adding energy and command. Groomed brows, a soft matte finish, and hydrated lips completed the look. For the finale, Matt brought the transformation full circle, sculpting and applying the cuts and bruises that captured Lex at his most vulnerable. When Edi Gathegi came in to test for Mr. Terrific, Kevin Kirkpatrick partnered with Matt Sprunger to establish the character's on-screen look. Legacy FX provided foam latex "T" mask appliances, originally designed by Darnell Isom as bold, stylized pieces. Director James Gunn later asked for a version that blended more naturally around the eyes and lips, enhancing realism without losing comic- book fidelity. Legacy quickly revised the design, and during our second test, the new eye blend proved essential for close-ups. Interestingly, the lip area read better without blending, so we combined elements of both versions—an approach James approved. Once the design was finalized, Kevin took over application solo as Matt shifted to Lex Luthor. Precision was key: The brows set the Nicholas Hoult Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane