Tom Savini is an actor, stunt performer, director and make-up artist, credited as one of biggest influences within Hollywood’s horror movie productions. He is a legend within the world of special effects, known for his exemplary work on films such as the iconic Friday 13th, Dawn of the Dead and Day of the Dead. His work in prosthetic effects is distinctive and creative, as well as being pioneering in the field. In recognition of this, he won a Lifetime Achievement Award at the New York City Horror Film Festival.

Savini, born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was fascinated as a child with movies and the use of prosthetic makeup. He started trying it himself on his friends, and soon became skilled at the craft. After University, he joined the US Army and went on tour to Vietnam, working as a combat photographer. The horrors of what he saw heavily influenced his artistic perspective on horror. After returning from Vietnam, he attended the prestigious Carnegie-Mellon University, where he graduated with honours in acting and directed.

Since his work behind the scenes, he has diversified his career, attaining success in acting. He has worked in critically acclaimed movies such as From Dusk Til’ Dawn, Machete, Django Unchained and Grindhouse. His abilities are not limited to the horror genre, however, and he has appeared in indie films Zack and Miri Make A Porno and the drama Perks Of Being A Wallflower.