MONSTROUS MASK REVIEWS: Area 51 Alien by The Horror Dome
Since I have been on an alien kick as of late, I cannot forget about the Area 51 Alien by The Horror Dome. This is actually my first mask by this company and I must say, I am very impressed! I wasn’t sure of what to make of this mask at first, based on the website photos, but am so glad I got it.
With a classic bulbous head, large black eyes, small, pig-like nasal openings, and stern pursed lips, this pale skinned extraterrestrial plans on abducting, probing, and possibly mutilating scores of townsfolk until he has the information about humankind that he needs to start the full-on invasion.
A full over the head design, the Area 51 Alien Collector Halloween mask provides a cinema-quality seamless look when worn with a bodysuit, jacket or hoodie. Created and crafted by the inspired, yet twisted artists at The Horror Dome, this exceptional ET is hand-painted for a shockingly realistic look. You may even trigger the repressed memories of a past close encounter with these lifelike masks.
One of my favorite parts of receiving a new mask is opening the box and smelling the fresh latex and paint. There is no better smell. When I lifted the mask out of the box I immediately noticed at how thick the pour was. This is designed to last! The more that I looked at it and admired the detail, I knew this mask was tailored-made for my collection.
First off, the sculpt. I do not know who the artist is but he or she should be commended. This sculpt is really good! It is extremely detailed with the creases looking very organic, a plus in any latex mask. The veins are very cool looking, adding so much to the look of the alien.
The Area 51 Alien has slightly smaller eyes than the usual grey alien mask but they are just as creepy and they paint job gives them a black, soulless look. The only complaint I actually have is with the masks left eye, where there are two vertical lines that seem to be a defect in the painting. It is slightly detracting to the mask’s overall mask, but not enough to make it not collection-worthy.
The paint job is wonderful for this mask, being predominantly grey with a dark grey to black shading in the creases. There is also purple highlights around the eyes and ears. The eyes are painted black with a high gloss added, giving them their depth. A nice touch is also the highlights and shadows on the veins, making them pop.
The top of the head, as well as on the back, have some interesting details, not seen before in a mask of this type. This mask also features a generous bib, adding to the value of the mask. The vision and breathing holes are minimal and personally I would not want to have to wear this mask for an extended period of time. It is perfect on a mannequin though as these holes are well hidden. There is also some foam inside the top of the mask that will not only aid in the wearing of the mask, but also in helping in it keeping its shape.
If you are like me, and are a UFO and alien buff, then this mask is a great addition to your extraterrestrial collection. I love the Area 51 Alien by The Horror Dome and will have to look more into their other offerings! Make sure to check out my other entries in my MONSTROUS MASK REVIEWS series.
~David Albaugh
