Practical FX Studio
13FingerFX works with production companies, directors and producers across film, television and commercials. The studio is not a public-facing service; if you’re a production looking to discuss a project or an artist hoping to work with us, please reach out via the Contact page.
13FFX is made up of a talented team of specialists, headed by practical FX creative Dan Martin and Producer Jen Handorf.
Dan Martin lives and breathes cinema; approaching every effect as both a challenge and an opportunity for invention, drawing on a deep historical knowledge of practical effects, the traditions of stage magic, and the evolving language of cinema, as well as emergent technologies. This perspective, combined with a restless curiosity for new techniques, materials and processes, has attracted and sustained collaborations with some of the most inventive and interesting directors working today; filmmakers who value originality, seamless integration into narrative and a willingness to push boundaries.
Jen Handorf’s lauded career as a creative producer brings a vital dimension to the studio. Her experience across a wide range of productions, paired with her sharp creative instincts, shapes the way projects are realised from concept to execution. Her input ensures that even the boldest ideas are grounded in practical, effective workflows.
Together, Dan and Jen work with a diverse network of established veterans and emerging artists, drawing on a wide spectrum of skills and perspectives. The studio’s approach is never limited to a single workflow; solutions are tailored to each moment on screen, which might mean sources of inspiration as disparate as blending the latest digital scanning and 3D printing technology with mechanical effects rooted in illusion techniques that pre-date cinema itself. The result is a body of work defined by versatility, ingenuity, and a commitment to creating effects that can amaze and shock or simply pass unseen, an unquestioned piece of a world the audience are fully immersed in.
Recognition
Any 3D makeup designed to modify the appearance of a performer, usually an every-day makeup. These can range from large undertakings such as look-alike makeups and age makeups to smaller, detailed skin modifications such as acne and scars.
Similar to character prosthetics but more focused on injury. Any cut, scrape or wound will be represented by this type of prosthetic makeup.
Prosthetics and suits worn by a performer, incorporating mechanical aspects as well as prosthetics where needed.
Creatures that cannot be performed by a person wearing a suit, including artificial animal carcasses or body parts that need producing.
Bloodlines, missing limbs, exploding heads and other in-camera moments that need to seem impossible.
Non-biological builds where an action or behaviour is not available off the shelf, or the build is too complex for a regular props department.
Safety-focused builds for stunt performers, including soft versions of props, fire-proof variants, custom breakaway props and related work.
Human limbs, severed heads, full bodies, simulated cadavers and stunt dummies for scenes too dangerous for living stunt performers.