The 2024 mask season introduced a new type of Halloween masks to the masses, deluxe injection. Instead of the usual latex, plastic is used. The half mask, similar to the Ben Cooper masks of the 1970s, then feature a wig for hair. There is a strap in the back to keep it on your head and the wig hides the edges. I believe this innovation is a first and Trick or Treat Studios should be commended for trying something new.
Trick or Treat Studios introduced three of these masks: David and Michael from THE LOST BOYS and the subject of this review, Regan from THE EXORCIST. I had no idea what to expect when the mask arrived, as I had only seen reviews of THE LOST BOY offerings.
The Sculpture
The sculpture, by Alexander Ray, is dead-on. This mask, in the right lighting, is terrifying. The details of the cuts and bruises look great and the eyes are beautiful. This mask works on so many levels. One thing I did notice though with this injection mask is that it does not have much detail in the skin, as you might see in a latex mask. I am not sure if this is because the plastic can’t reproduce super detail or if this type of mask has to have less skin detail. Regardless, this thing looks amazing!
Paint Job
The term “less is more” definitely works here. The paint job is simple yet effective. The wounds look painful and the eyes stare right through you. The yellow-green used is such a powerful contrast. I would’ve liked to have seen more care taken in painting the teeth but that’s a minor complaint. For a mass-produced mask that retails for $40, this is worth every penny.
Quality
The hard plastic is pretty thick and the wig is beautiful. One thing that plastic has over latex is that it will never rot, as latex can do over time. The strap in the back feels very secure and the wig is the perfect size to hide the edges of the mask.
Wearability
The Regan mask is extremely easy to take on and off. Latex masks can be a challenge at time, especially those that are full, over-the-head masks. It fits close to your face and despite being plastic, is not uncomfortable at all. Breathing is easy but viewing through the eyeholes is not. As you can see, the available space to see through is minimal. This is to maintain the look of the mask. If you made them bigger, or removed the eyes all together, this mask would not work. For me, this is a display piece that I have no intention of wearing.
Comparison to Catalog Photos
It’s no secret that mask companies use a prototype mask that then becomes the stock photo on websites and in catalogs. These masks are often given a more personal touch when painting. This makes them look amazing when you are shopping. Though companies have gotten much better when it comes to what they are actually selling compared to what they are advertising, this was not always the case. I am happy to say that in this case, what I received looks just as good as the photos Trick or Treat Studios are using. All of the photos in this article are of the one that I bought and it has not been modified in any way. When you buy this mask you can be confident in what you are going to receive.
Make sure to check out my other entries in my MONSTROUS MASK REVIEWS series. If you would like to own this amazing piece, please go to my eBay store by clicking HERE!