a mind-bending film inspired by a timeless short tale – had transformed into a celebrated masterpiece within the genre for numerous reasons. Foremost among these, however, is the outstanding visual effects and make-up artistry that presented audiences with some of the most unforgettable creatures and outrageous scenes in the movie. Who can forget the grotesque yet intriguing Kuato fused to Marshall Bell’s abdomen, the three-breasted woman, or Dean Norris’ unsettling Tony with a warped, monstrous face? The visionary behind these breathtaking creations is special make-up effects icon and Academy Award winner Rob Bottin, which includes the chilling puppet and taxi driver, Johnny Cab.
Also featured was the creepy puppet and taxi driver, Johnny Cab, a character brought to life by Robert Picardo, after whom the puppet was modeled. As Ricardo recounted in a 2020 interview with Syfy, Bottin inquired if he could utilize his likeness to create the mold base intended for Johnny Cab. “Rob and I were pals, and he essentially asked me if he could shape Johnny Cab [with my face] — he just fancied my face. He said, ‘This will be your swan song… we’ll take a cast of your face with that silly grin, and then I’m going to craft a puppet. After that, he mentioned, ‘I’ll recommend you to Paul,’ who I’d previously auditioned for in ‘RoboCop.’ Yet, I still had to audition to be the voice coming from my own face and Johnny Cab, and he selected me.”
The takeaway? Never decline an artist wanting to utilize your likeness for a prop in another film — you may just land the role.