Body prosthetics in film and television are not an uncommon sight, particularly in scenes requiring nudity. This practice is often employed by actors to avoid full exposure on screen, while still making the narrative compelling for the audience.
Experiences of shooting graphic scenes in the industry vary greatly. An example of this comes to light with an actor from the popular series, ‘Grey's Anatomy'. They described the challenges of filming nudity, while also highlighting the importance of having support and a secure, comfortable environment to make the process more manageable.
Prosthetics in Euphoria
‘Euphoria', a show known for its graphic depictions, provides a prime example of prosthetics use. In the pilot episode, the character Cal engages in a meeting with a minor after exchanges through a dating app. For this particular scene, the actor opted for a prosthetic penis, a choice which illustrates the careful considerations made when filming such sensitive sequences.
Jacob Elordi’s Experience
Jacob Elordi, a fellow cast member on ‘Euphoria', also shared details about his experiences of shooting explicit sex scenes for the show. Often seen without a shirt, Elordi explained this was in keeping with his character's ultra-masculine, athletic image. His experiences, much like those of his co-stars, highlight the decisions made by actors in the portrayal of their characters.
Use of Prosthetics by Other Actors
Beyond ‘Euphoria', many other actors also turn to prosthetic body parts when filming. This common practice further underscores its role in allowing actors to maintain their comfort levels, while also delivering a realistic portrayal for the viewing audience.