Dan Gilbert
Making Monsters from Stunts to Special FX
Episode 202
Dan Gilbert is a versatile and multi-talented artist based in East Pasadena, CA, whose career spans multiple aspects of the entertainment industry. Known for his work as a special FX makeup artist, actor, puppeteer, stuntman, voice actor, and wood carver, Dan brings a unique blend of creativity, skill, and passion to every project he touches.
His impressive list of credits includes major television and film productions such as Hellboy: The Crooked Man, Haunting of the Queen Mary, American Horror Story, Westworld, Miracle Workers, The Resident, The Rookie, The Orville, Euphoria, 9-1-1, and Station 19. Dan’s career began in the heart of Southern California’s theme park scene, performing in shows like the WaterWorld Stunt Show at Universal Studios Hollywood for 10 years and participating in Six Flags Magic Mountain’s renowned Fright Fest event, where he discovered his love for prosthetic makeup.
Building on his experience, Dan developed Mouth FX, a specialty makeup product line that has since become an industry standard for mouth prosthetics. His expertise and innovative contributions have earned him recognition in both the entertainment and special effects industries, where he continues to push the boundaries of his craft.
Dan Gilbert Takeaways
Crafting Zombies: A Defining Moment
The guest reflects on a pivotal experience of creating zombies for a feature film, which marked a significant transition from acting to makeup artistry. This opportunity became a critical test to prove his skills and helped him establish credibility as a makeup artist. His success in this project led him to embrace the identity of a professional in the field. It emphasized the importance of taking risks and stepping out of comfort zones to achieve personal and professional growth.
Connection to the San Gabriel Valley
Growing up in the San Gabriel Valley has deeply influenced the guest’s life and career. He shares fond memories of his childhood, including time spent ice skating in Pasadena and visiting his father. This connection has fostered a sense of belonging and pride, making the San Gabriel Valley a significant part of his identity. The diversity and culture of the area are seen as essential elements that enrich his experiences and artistic expressions.
The Evolution of Makeup in Film
The guest discusses the advancements in makeup and special effects within the film industry, highlighting how much more realistic and intricate they have become over the years. He notes that the craft has evolved from basic techniques to sophisticated designs that can create horrifyingly realistic characters. This evolution reflects broader trends in filmmaking and audience expectations, showcasing the power of makeup artistry in storytelling. It underscores the importance of continual learning and adaptation in creative fields.
Embracing the Fear Factor
A recurring theme in the guest’s journey is his fascination with fear and horror. He expresses how being scared as a child turned into a passion for scaring others as an adult through his work in haunted attractions and makeup. This duality allows him to connect with audiences on a deeper emotional level, creating memorable experiences. The idea that fear can be transformed into entertainment reveals a unique perspective on his craft and the impact of horror in the arts.
The Importance of Community
Throughout the conversation, the guest emphasizes the value of community, particularly in the entertainment industry. He acknowledges the support from his family and mentors who have guided him on his path. Additionally, he highlights the camaraderie among fellow artists and the collective effort it takes to create magic in film and theme parks. This sense of belonging and collaboration is vital for fostering creativity and resilience in an often challenging industry.
Navigating Career Challenges
The guest candidly shares the hurdles he faces in his career, particularly regarding union membership and job stability. He discusses how these challenges have pushed him to diversify his skills and seek new opportunities beyond traditional pathways. This adaptability is essential for survival in the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and innovation in overcoming obstacles.
Passion for Art and Storytelling
Ultimately, the guest’s dedication to his craft is evident through his desire to create art that resonates with others. He expresses a commitment to making meaningful work that evokes emotions and connects with audiences. This passion fuels his journey, driving him to explore various aspects of performance, whether in front of or behind the camera. His love for storytelling highlights the transformative power of art, reinforcing its significance in human experience.
Dan Gilbert Quotes
“They want your style and at the time I was an actor who dabbled in makeup.”
“If I can actually pull off this feature film, then I can maybe start to call myself a makeup artist.”
“It was the make it or break it moment: put up or shut up.”
“I like being able to make someone feel something, whether that’s on camera or in person.”
“If you can make somebody laugh, they may love you, but if you can scare somebody, they’re never gonna forget you.”
“The skill at creating these effects has just really gone off, like in terms of where they used to be.”
“I always used to love pranking people and scaring people.”
“There’s power in fear, and the way that you can take control of being afraid is to start being the one who does the scare.”
“Maybe it was a way to take to not be fearful, to just own it.”
“I think I had the advantage of seeing a lot of movies and being into stuff that maybe a lot of the kids weren’t.”
“I just want to make cool things, art I’m proud of.”
“The industry is changing out from underneath us, and I’m super grateful for the journey I’ve been on.”
“You want to take it right to the line.”
“There’s a special kind of person that comes out of the shadows in September and starts to unleash scares on everybody.”
“I’ve been fortunate to work for Universal Studios.”
“There’s something about Pasadena. It had a lot of things that Santa Clarita where I grew up doesn’t have; it’s got culture, it’s got history.”
“I just want to make cool stuff that I like, and then I think I’ll be happy.”
Show Notes
Dan Gilbert
Pasadena Convention Center
The guest fondly recalls the Pasadena Convention Center as a significant place in his life. He learned to ice skate at the old ice rink that is now part of the venue and has participated in various trade shows there, creating memorable makeups and showcasing his art. The venue holds special memories for him, representing his growth and experiences in the makeup industry.
His House in Pasadena
Living in Pasadena has had a profound impact on the guest, as he has been connected to the area since he was 18. He appreciates the culture, history, and diversity of Pasadena, which has provided him with opportunities to create art and collaborate with other artists. His home symbolizes a sense of belonging and creativity for him.
Speakeasy Fitness
The guest highlights Speakeasy Fitness as an important place for his mental health and fitness journey. Located conveniently near his home, it has become a sanctuary for him, especially during the pandemic when he found it difficult to cope without access to the gym. The community of serious lifters and the environment contribute to his overall well-being and motivation.
