Face Off

Face Off follows a group of aspiring makeup artists as they tackle a series of ambitious design challenges, each aiming to create a dramatic creature or character using prosthetics, silicone prosthetics, painting and sculpting. Contestants are eliminated as the competition progresses toward a grand prize and the chance to be recognized as Hollywood's next great effects artist. Guided by a rotating roster of mentors and a seasoned judging panel, the contestants push their skills in practical effects rather than CGI. Host McKenzie Westmore introduces the challenges, while experts Glenn Hetrick, Ve Neill, Neville Page and Michael Westmore critique and advise. The emphasis stays on craftsmanship, invention, and teamwork under tight deadlines. Fans witness wild creative leaps and the occasional mishap as artists push their limits.

Face Off premiered in 2011 on Syfy as an original reality competition centered on practical creature makeup. There is no single director; the series runs with a team of producers. Host McKenzie Westmore leads a panel of judges including Glenn Hetrick, Ve Neill, and Neville Page.

Face Off has earned nominations and wins in makeup categories at major television awards, reflecting industry recognition for the craft featured on screen. Critics praised the show's rigorous challenges and the way it spotlights sculpting, prosthetics, painting and application. The success has helped raise makeup effects' profile on television.

The show put practical effects makeup back in the spotlight and introduced a broader audience to sculptors who often labored behind the scenes. Its judges became recognizable figures in the industry and the program inspired aspiring artists to explore hands on creation rather than CGI.

Critics praised its emphasis on craftsmanship over glamour, highlighting mentorship and adaptation under pressure. The show explores themes of artistic identity, collaboration, resilience, and clean problem solving as contestants translate imagination into tangible effects that must hold up under lighting and camera.