Bespoke special prop for Game Two / Rocket Beans

Project at a glance

Production: Game Two / Rocket Beans

Industry: Television / Entertainment

Project: Realistic silicone dummy head

My role in the project:

• Lifecasting

• Positive making

• Traditional modelling

• Mould-making

• Silicone casting

• Foaming the core

• Painting

• Hair Punching

• Finishing the prop

Materials:

• Platinum silicone

• PU foam core

• Bespoke painting

• Real hair

The challenge

For the production, a realistic dummy head was to be created that believably depicts a crushed head. The prop had to convince both at normal viewing distance and in close-ups, while being stable enough for the planned use.

It was especially important to preserve the anatomy of the original and to work out the damage so that it looks realistic without appearing artificial or exaggerated.

The execution

The basis of the project was a lifecast of the performer. After producing a positive, the complete damage to the head was created as a traditional clay modelling.

Once the modelling was finished, the mould was made and the head was then cast in high-quality platinum silicone. To save weight while ensuring stability, the prop was given a foamed core.

Finally, the dummy head was individually painted and fitted with hand-punched hair to achieve the most realistic possible appearance.

The result

The finished prop impressed with its realistic anatomy, convincing injury details and high-quality surface treatment.

Through the combination of silicone casting, individual painting and hair punching, a dummy head was created that integrated convincingly into the production and conveyed the desired effect believably.

What made this project special

• Bespoke lifecast

• Traditional clay modelling

• Realistic injury depiction

• Multi-part mould

• Platinum silicone casting

• Foamed core for weight reduction

• Bespoke painting

• Hand-punched hair

Behind the scenes

This project brought together almost the complete manufacturing process of a prop. From the first lifecast to the finished silicone dummy head, every step was done by hand. The combination of realistic modelling, precise mould-making and fine surface treatment in particular ensured that the prop convinced both in direct eye contact and on camera.

Suitable industries

• Film & Television

• Theme parks

• Escape Rooms

• Events & Halloween

Frequently asked questions

Was the dummy head custom-made?

Yes. The complete prop was developed specifically for this production and built from scratch.

Why was a lifecast made?

A lifecast forms the anatomical basis and ensures that proportions and facial forms are reproduced as realistically as possible.

Why was the core foamed?

The PU foam core significantly reduced the weight, while the silicone surface retained its realistic feel and look.

Can you also make other props?

Yes. Besides dummies, I make body parts, replica weapons, masks, creatures and bespoke custom pieces for film, advertising, theatre and events, among others.

Conclusion

This project shows how a realistic prop is created from traditional sculpting, precise mould-making and modern silicone work. From the first lifecast to the finished dummy head, every step was done in careful handwork. The result is a custom-made film prop that meets the demands of professional productions both visually and technically.