Skin (HBO)

About Skin (HBO)

Skin, released in 2019, is an American drama film produced by Jamie Ray Newman and directed by Guy Nattiv. The movie showcases the story of a former skinhead gang member, Bryon Widner, who turns away from hate and violence, with the help of a black activist and the woman he loves. With extraordinary patience and grit, Bryon defies his white supremacist past, while he undergoes painful procedures for removing his numerous racist tattoos. The film provides an eye-opening experience regarding hate crime groups and serves as an inspiring illustration of change, acceptance, and love.

Making / Production

HBO's Skin was filmed in different locations in New York, including Kingston, Cornwall, and Ossining. The film is based on a true story, and the real-life protagonist, Bryon Widner, spent long hours with Jamie Bell preparing him for the role. Oscar-winning makeup designer Greg Cannom and his team were responsible for the remarkable makeup effects, including Widner's tattoos and their removal.

Actors

• Jamie Bell plays Bryon 'Babs' Widner, a tormented young man in extreme conflict with his hateful belongings, from whom he ultimately detaches. Bell's performance rose to the demanding challenge, portraying the emotional turmoil convincingly.
• Danielle Macdonald portrays Julie Price, the woman who provided Bryon with the strength to atone. Her sensitive performance achieved the depiction of a working-class mother struggling to protect her daughters.
• Vera Farmiga is the manipulative Shareen Krager, who is a motherly figure in the white supremacist community. Farmiga's portrayal is compelling and sharp.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is based on the real-life story of Bryon Widner, a former skinhead who removed his racist tattoos and left his former life.
• Jamie Bell and director Guy Nattiv both have stated that they were moved by Widner's story when they first heard it.
• The movie's makeup team used pictures of the real Widner to recreate his tattoos as accurately as possible.

Awards

Though not an awards feat, the film was highly commended at its premiere in Toronto International Film Festival and effectively created impact and dialogue about hate crime groups and racial issues.

Quotes

• “I don't want my kids to turn out like me. I want them to turn out like you.” - Bryon Widner (Jamie Bell)
• “Change is possible. Redemption is possible.” - Julie Price (Danielle Macdonald)

Music, Soundtrack

• The original music of the film was composed by Dan Romer, who creates an emotional atmosphere that enhances the narrative's tension and drama.
• A poignant song featured is "Redemption Day", performed by Sheryl Crow and Johnny Cash, symbolizing Bryon's arduous journey towards rectification.