Why might improved makeup technology be significant in the portrayal of the undead in film?

Improved makeup technology plays a crucial role in enhancing the realism of undead characters in film. This is significant because the authenticity of the undead's appearance can profoundly impact the audience's experience and engagement with the story. Realistic makeup helps convey the physical traits that distinguish undead beings—such as decay, pallor, and unnatural features—making them more convincing and disturbing. This enhanced realism can elicit stronger emotional reactions from the audience, heightening their sense of fear or empathy depending on the narrative context.

The advancements in makeup technology, including prosthetics and special effects, allow filmmakers to create more intricate and lifelike representations of mummies, zombies, and vampires. This realism can lead to a greater suspension of disbelief, enabling viewers to immerse themselves more fully in the horror and the dramatic elements of the film. The portrayal of the undead becomes not just a visual spectacle but a vehicle for deeper storytelling, as the time and effort put into crafting these characters visibly resonate on screen.