Lukas Gage's haunting transformation in 'Smile 2': Exclusive clip with FX Artist Jeremy Selenfriend

Smile 2, the sequel to 2022's groundbreaking horror hit, has earned its title as "the scariest movie of the year." Much of its chilling success lies in the shocking transformation of Lukas Gage into a truly disturbing character. A behind-the-scenes video reveals how Gage's nightmarish look was achieved with the help of special effects artist Jeremy Selenfriend, giving fans a closer look at the artistry behind the terror.

© Photo Courtesy of Paramount Pict

The Evolution of a Nightmare

Gage's role demanded more than psychological depth—it required a physical transformation that could haunt audiences long after the credits rolled. Selenfriend, known for his meticulous approach to prosthetic design, crafted an unsettling appearance for Gage, layering grotesque textures with hyper-realistic precision. 

© Paramount Home Entertainment

"I’ll sculpt tangibly with my hands until the day I’m told I physically can’t, just because I genuinely love it," he told The Credits. "But I also respect the hell out of what’s going on with digital sculptors. For Smile 2, Naomi [Skye], she was all digital scans by Millennium FX in the UK. Morphology did some of the lifecasting from prints of the digital scans, and Studio Gillis was also involved again, like the first film. There was a lot of teamwork between departments and other shops."

A Grueling Process

Transforming Gage into his Smile 2 persona was no small feat. The application of prosthetics took several hours each day, starting with a detailed facial cast that allowed Selenfriend to sculpt custom pieces. Layers of silicone and paint were incorporated to create a disturbingly lifelike look. "I mean, can’t say I found any specific references. It’s tough as it’s a very imaginative thing. But we had a lot of MMA fight references, just extreme nose breaks and things like that. Relevant things, albeit nothing quite like a weight plate," he said, referencing the disfigurations. 

© Paramount Home Entertainment

The Final Product

The behind-the-scenes featurette, part of over 40 minutes of exclusive bonus content included with the film's digital release, provides a comprehensive exploration of the intricate processes that brought the chilling nightmares of Smile 2 to life. Viewers are given an insider's perspective on the meticulous work of Selenfriend and his talented team, showcasing how their expertise in makeup, prosthetics, and cutting-edge visual effects seamlessly intertwine. 

The featurette emphasizes the technical elements of creating horror and highlights the strong collaboration between the special effects crew and actor Gage, who demonstrates an unwavering dedication to his craft. Fans will gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and skill that went into producing the film's terrifying moments.

Release Details

Smile 2, written and directed by Parker Finn, is available for digital purchase starting November 19, 2024. The film will also be available in a two-film collection with the original Smile and on 4K Ultra HD, SteelBook 4K Ultra HD, and DVD on January 21, 2025. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the artistry and horror that make Smile 2 a "terrifying masterpiece."