Step into the world behind the scenes of Hollywood’s hottest movies and TV shows with reporter Kirbie Johnson as she uncovers the secrets of creating the most jaw-dropping wigs, special effects makeup, and more. In this special edition, Johnson sits down with FX dental technician Gary Archer to discuss his crucial role in Channing Tatum’s latest film, Blink Twice.
Channing Tatum may seem like the total package with his dancing skills, acting chops, sense of humor, and engagement to Zoë Kravitz. But in reality, his ordinary appearance is nothing to write home about. However, all these qualities make him the perfect canvas to transform into the deceptively charming sociopathic tech billionaire Slater King in Blink Twice.
In the movie, Tatum’s character remains true to his real-life looks—until he speaks. When we first see him in an interview scene, reminiscent of Kara Swisher grilling a tech mogul, Tatum’s transformation is revealed through dental prosthetics. His teeth are unnaturally white and perfectly aligned, completely devoid of the charm and warmth of his natural smile. This subtle change turns his handsome face into that of someone you’d probably steer clear of at the bar.
“We were tasked with giving him a million-dollar smile—white, perfect, broad—someone who exudes wealth and privilege,” explains FX dental technician Gary Archer. With a career spanning 40 years, Archer is known as “The Godfather of FX teeth” in the industry. His impressive resume includes iconic projects like the Austin Powers trilogy, Mrs. Doubtfire, and Never Been Kissed.
Archer, who has collaborated with Tatum on previous films, reveals that the dental work in Blink Twice mirrors the high-priced smiles seen in Beverly Hills. The process involves meticulously shaping and whitening every tooth, creating a flawless look that doesn’t come off as comical. The goal was to make Tatum’s character look like a wealthy tech tycoon without being over-the-top or distracting.
Director Kravitz aimed for a subtle yet impactful transformation, ensuring that Tatum’s billionaire smile looked authentic and fitting for the character. Despite the extreme whiteness of the teeth, they managed to strike a balance that didn’t overshadow Tatum’s performance on screen.
In the world of Hollywood magic, even the smallest details can make a big difference in bringing a character to life. Thanks to experts like Gary Archer, actors like Channing Tatum can undergo remarkable transformations that captivate audiences and enhance their performances.
