The secret behind the characterization of BLOOD MOON: NEW GENERATION

The series RED MOON: NEW GENERATION, produced by SPi, premiered on 31 October on the Prime Video and Opto streaming platforms, marking the return of one of Portugal's biggest teen hits. Revisiting the world of vampires and introducing werewolves for the first time, this new season expands the fantastical universe that captivated a generation, with more realistic and detailed characterization accompanied by new faces.

Ana Araújo, head of characterization at SP Televisão, gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the demanding process of creating the molds and prosthetics that underpin the visual identity of this series. Sharp teeth, elongated nails, thick beards, and other essential elements were meticulously developed to ensure the authenticity of these legendary creatures. “The prosthetics were made in partnership with João Rapaz, Catarina Santiago, and Magda Casqueiro, the latter responsible for the silicone prosthetics. Débora Gil da Costa took care of the vampire teeth prosthetics and Raina Laguna oversaw the hairpieces,” she explains, emphasizing that “it was undoubtedly a long and laborious process.”

According to the characterization manager, each prosthesis required customized molds to ensure accuracy and comfort for the actors during filming. "We made molds of everything: teeth, nails, beards, among other things, so that the prostheses would be tailor-made and comfortable. After drying and counter-molding, construction and modelling followed, with several intermediate tests to ensure that everything was properly positioned. It is a process that involves weeks of work and many hours of dedication."

The creation of the intense looks of the vampires and werewolves also required extra attention. The contact lenses, handmade and hand-painted, were produced by the same American supplier who collaborated on the first season of RED MOON. "The vampire lenses are the same model used previously, while the werewolf lenses were chosen from existing options. Then, in Portugal, the actors went to the optometrist to take the necessary measurements so that we could have custom lenses made for each one," he explains.

When asked about the main challenge of this project, Ana Araújo highlights the limited preparation time and the need to balance fantasy, aesthetics, and functionality. "The challenge was to respect the limited time we had. This process is time-consuming and depends on several teams and partners. In addition, the characters' image had to be magical, pleasing to the eye and not too scary, and of course, without requiring endless hours of characterization."

Despite the intensity of the work, the atmosphere behind the scenes remained fun. There were moments of relaxation, especially when the actors saw their transformation in the mirror. “Rui Pedro Silva changed the most and didn't find it so funny anymore! (laughs) He even learned how to put on the prosthetics and helped us,” recalls the make-up artist. Amidst laughter, the set was often the scene of unusual phrases such as: “I lost a tooth”, “I dropped a claw,” or “my ear is falling off.”

Combining technique, artistry and dedication, the work of Ana Araújo and her team was instrumental in reinventing the universe of RED MOON: NEW GENERATION, restoring its depth, realism and fantastic charm that continues to captivate audiences.