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The Unseen Faces of Hollywood's Stars
17 Mar
Summary
- Doubles are used for intimate scenes, skills, or physical resemblance.
- Body doubles share unique experiences with famous actors.
- Some doubles have achieved significant recognition and financial success.
Hollywood employs a variety of doubles beyond stunt performers, serving crucial roles when actors are unavailable or lack specific skills. These doubles often step in for intimate scenes, to portray characters playing instruments, or to match an actor's physical build for twin roles.
Percy Bell, who doubled for Michael B. Jordan in 'Sinners,' found a unique connection by creating playlists for his characters, mirroring Jordan's own process. His work facilitated Jordan's performance, contributing to the film's success, including Jordan's Oscar win. Bell views his role as essential to the overall execution of the craft.
Shelley Michelle famously doubled for Julia Roberts' body in 'Pretty Woman,' handling intimate scenes and providing a curvier physique. Her career expanded to include doubling for other actresses, leading her to insure her legs for $1 million and eventually establish her own agency, Body Doubles and Parts, to advocate for doubles' recognition and fair pay.
Pianist Philip Fortenberry recreated Liberace's hands for 'Behind the Candelabra,' a meticulous process involving precise timing with the soundtrack. Jacqueline Leventhal doubled for Rachel Weisz in 'Vladimir,' driving scenes for which Weisz lacked a license. Child actor Flick Miles served as a 'shadow Hermione' in the Harry Potter films, appearing in shots not requiring Emma Watson's face, though Miles's face was famously used when Hermione transformed into a cat.
Hand model Elizabeth Barbour, who doubled for Andie MacDowell's hands in a L'Oréal advert, highlights the distinct requirements for cosmetic advertising. She maintained 'flawless' hands, emphasizing the precise work involved in close-up product demonstrations. The financial rewards were significant, making hand modeling a lucrative, albeit temporary, career.
