The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1968), Dick Smith produced original life cast of Jason Robards in Mr. Hyde makeup

replica make-up / prosthetics

Although never used in the production for the version of the film that eventually came to fruition, this original life cast was produced by legendary Hollywood makeup artist Dick Smith in the late 60s.  It is a life cast of Jason Robards in preproduction test makeup for a television movie adaptation of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hide.  In 1968 the movie of the same name was eventually made with Jack Palance instead of Robards.  Smith applied the star’s makeup for the telefilm.

Dick Smith is known as the “Godfather of Makeup” because of his remarkably successful career, which includes makeup credits for The Godfather Part I and II.  He is also responsible for the makeup artistry of 3 other Academy Award Best Pictures winners including Amadeus, a film for which he won an Oscar himself (Best Makeup).   In addition, Smith left audiences with unforgettable imagery from his work on Taxi Driver and The Exorcist.  His protégé, prominent makeup artist Rick Baker, presented Smith with an Honorary Oscar at the 2011 Academy Awards.

Dick Smith painted the face and applied the acrylic (or glass?) eyes himself.  The excess compound seen around the eyes of the Mr. Hyde life cast can easily be removed, but has been preserved to remain like the condition it was when Smith last handled it.  Overall the life cast is in great condition.

I acquired this item from Premiere Props.