Monster Man (TV series)

Monster Man was an American reality television series that aired on Syfy. The series followed Cleve Hall, a special effects makeup artist specializing in monster creations, and his family and crew at his Burbank, California-based effects studio, SOTA FX. Each episode typically featured the team undertaking a new and challenging project, often under tight deadlines and budgetary constraints. These projects ranged from creating elaborate monster costumes and props for low-budget horror films to designing large-scale animatronics for theme parks and commercials.

The show documented the creative process, showcasing the various stages of design, sculpting, molding, painting, and fabrication involved in bringing fantastical creatures and characters to life. It also focused on the personal dynamics within the SOTA FX team, highlighting the relationships between Cleve, his daughters Constance and Elora, his ex-wife Sonja, and the other artists and technicians who contributed to the projects. Recurring themes included the challenges of running a small business in the competitive special effects industry, balancing artistic vision with practical limitations, and the inherent drama of working with family.

Monster Man ran for one season, consisting of six episodes, which originally aired in 2012. While not officially canceled, no further seasons were produced. The show provided a behind-the-scenes look at the world of special effects makeup and monster design, appealing to fans of horror, science fiction, and the practical arts.