10 Questions: An Interview with Rusty Slusser SPFXMasks

"SPFXMasks and RealU Masks are extremely high quality wearable masks made from state-of-the-art silicone and designed to conform to your own face. Our silicone masks are very unique and are an industry first. SPFXMasks invented, designed, and introduced the FIRST-EVER silicone masks. Unlike foam latex or slip latex masks, our silicone masks look and behave like real flesh and muscle. Each Halloween mask is handcrafted individually with an meticulous eye for detail. The sculpting and coloring add ultra-high realism to each hand crafted mask. SPFXmasks is the haunted house choice for professionals and used in haunted houses all over the world! Take your Halloween costume to another level! Unlike latex masks, SPFXMasks are constructed of reinforced high-grade silicone that has a shelf life of 25 years! Our silicone masks will not chip, peel or flake like latex masks do. Our masks are extremely durable and far superior to foam latex masks which can rip or tear quite easily!"-FromSPFXMasks.com

I'm very happy to have had a chance to interview Mr. Rusty Slusser and I want say thanks for taking the time to answer a few questions.

1-How did you start in the special effects business?

I started off apprenticing in the industry when I was thirteen years old. I worked in small films, commercials and stage shows. After a couple of years, I started getting bigger jobs and eventually made a name for myself.

2-How did your company SPFXMasks come about?

After years in the industry, I decided that as much as I enjoyed working in film (and still do to this day), that I wanted to bring something of my own to the table.

3-You make masks using silicone, how did you get into using that?

Throughout my years in the industry,I witnessed first hand the marvels of silicone and the potential it had in regards to masks.I wanted to bring that same movie quality realism to the general public.It was not an easy task to say the least. Our silicone masks are unique, and are an industry first. We invented, designed and introduced the first ever silicone masks available to the general public.

4-What are some of the different masks you've created?

As far as SPFXMasks monsters go, we have made a Wolf-Man transformation,Zombie,Clown, and Vampire.Our RealU line has carried an Old Man, Elder, Thug, Player, Sarge
and the Inbred. We have also done countless custom pieces for our customers.



5-What is your most popular one?

The Zombie and the Clown are typically our best sellers.

6-How long does it take to create a mask?

The process takes about four to five days depending on the order. There are many variables involved in the process; such as custom paint and hair.



7-Who are the customers for your masks?

Our customers range from film industry professionals, bands, haunted house attraction owners and professionals, to general Halloween and mask enthusiasts.

8-On your site there's a video of Tom Savini checking out your
masks. How did that come about? And what was it like meeting Savini? Had you
met him before?

At Monstermania,Tom had seen a friend of mine wearing a Player mask. Tom eventually made his way over to our booth, and was stunned to learn that my friend was wearing a mask. We asked Tom if he would do a video testimonial, and he graciously agreed. Tom has been very supportive of our work and it's a great honor to say the least. His work has always been one of my biggest inspirations since I was a child. I had met Tom before when I was fourteen on the set of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre Part II(1986).I wasn't part of the crew,but I was allowed to hang out and observe. Tom let me come into the shop and view some of the film props. Tom is an FX master and a true legend in this industry and it is a great honor and privilege to have his support.



9-What would you say some of your favorite horror movies are?

The Lost Boys (1987), An American Werewolf in London (1981), and The Others (2001).

10-What can we look forward to in the future for SPFXMasks?

SPFXMasks and Drac Studios are teaming up to release an old lady mask with saggy boobs (which will also be available in witch form)and a Nosferatu mask. Greg Cannom is working on a good looking guy mask. We also have a Demon mask on the way,as well as some other surprises.

Check out SPFXMasks mypace and SPFXMasks.com.