Tate Langdon, the deeply troubled character portrayed by Evan Peters in American Horror Story: Murder House, dons the iconic skeleton makeup in episode 6, titled “Piggy Piggy.” This episode not only showcases Tate’s increasingly disturbing behavior but also serves as a pivotal moment in understanding his fractured psyche and the origins of his violent tendencies.
The Haunting Beauty of “Piggy Piggy”
Episode 6 of American Horror Story: Murder House isn’t just memorable for the striking visual of Tate’s skeleton makeup. It’s a complex tapestry woven with themes of bullying, revenge, and the lasting scars of trauma. The episode delves into the backstory of Hayden McClaine, Vivian Harmon’s stalker, revealing the circumstances that led to her eventual murder. However, it’s Tate’s storyline that truly captivates and unsettles viewers.
The skeleton makeup, seemingly a simple act of teenage rebellion, becomes a powerful symbol of Tate’s internal struggle. It represents his growing disconnection from reality, his embrace of nihilism, and his descent into madness. The makeup itself is meticulously crafted, enhancing Peters’ already captivating performance and adding another layer of depth to Tate’s already multifaceted character. He wears it during a key scene where he interacts with Violet, revealing a disturbing fantasy about joining her in death, highlighting his manipulative tendencies and morbid fascination.
Analyzing the Symbolism
The choice of skeleton makeup is far from arbitrary. Skeletons are universally recognized symbols of death, mortality, and the decay of the physical body. By adorning himself with this image, Tate is not only foreshadowing his own demise but also embracing the darkness within him. It’s a visual representation of his inner torment and his acceptance of his role as a harbinger of death and destruction within the Murder House.
Furthermore, the makeup can be interpreted as a mask, a way for Tate to hide his true self and present a distorted image to the world. He uses it to shock and intimidate, to assert dominance and control, and to distance himself from the pain and vulnerability that lie beneath the surface. The stark contrast between the white skull and the dark shadows emphasizes the duality of his character, the juxtaposition of innocence and evil that makes him so compelling and terrifying.
Unpacking Tate’s Descent
“Piggy Piggy” is a crucial turning point in Tate’s narrative. It’s the episode where the audience begins to understand the full extent of his mental instability. While previous episodes hinted at his troubled past and his penchant for violence, this episode solidifies his descent into darkness. The skeleton makeup serves as a visual marker of this transformation, a sign that he is no longer simply a troubled teenager but a dangerous force to be reckoned with.
The events leading up to Tate’s decision to wear the makeup are also significant. He’s grappling with feelings of isolation, rejection, and anger. He’s also experiencing the insidious influence of the Murder House, which amplifies his negative emotions and encourages his destructive impulses. The combination of these factors pushes him over the edge, leading him to embrace the skeleton persona as a way to express his inner turmoil and exert control over his surroundings.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Tate’s Makeup and Character
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the context and significance of Tate Langdon’s skeleton makeup:
Why did Tate wear the skeleton makeup in “Piggy Piggy”?
Tate wore the skeleton makeup as a symbolic representation of his inner turmoil, his embrace of death, and his descent into madness. It was a visual expression of his alienation, anger, and the growing influence of the Murder House.
Was the skeleton makeup just a random costume choice?
No, the skeleton makeup was a deliberate and symbolic choice by the show’s writers and costume designers. It was intended to visually represent Tate’s fractured psyche and his connection to death.
Did Evan Peters have any input on the skeleton makeup design?
While the specific details might not be publicly documented, it’s likely that Evan Peters collaborated with the makeup artists to ensure the look effectively conveyed Tate’s character and emotions. Actors often contribute to the visual portrayal of their characters.
How long did it take to apply the skeleton makeup to Evan Peters?
The application of detailed makeup like this typically takes several hours, likely between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity and the number of layers involved.
What products were likely used to create Tate’s skeleton makeup?
Professional-grade theatrical makeup would have been used, likely including a white base, black pigments for shading and contouring, setting powder to ensure longevity, and possibly prosthetic pieces to enhance the skull-like appearance.
Does the skeleton makeup reappear in any other episodes of American Horror Story: Murder House?
No, the skeleton makeup is predominantly featured in “Piggy Piggy” and is not used consistently throughout the series. It’s a specific visual cue tied to the events and themes of that particular episode.
How did the skeleton makeup affect Tate’s relationship with Violet?
The skeleton makeup scene is a chilling moment in Tate’s relationship with Violet. It reveals his morbid fascination with death and foreshadows the dangers lurking beneath his seemingly charming exterior. It highlights his manipulative tendencies and raises concerns about his influence on Violet.
What is the overall message that “Piggy Piggy” tries to convey?
“Piggy Piggy” explores themes of bullying, revenge, trauma, and the consequences of violence. It highlights the devastating impact of these issues on individuals and society, showcasing how unresolved pain can lead to destructive behavior.
How does “Piggy Piggy” contribute to the overall narrative of American Horror Story: Murder House?
“Piggy Piggy” deepens the understanding of Tate’s character and motivations, providing crucial context for his later actions. It also contributes to the overall atmosphere of dread and unease that permeates the series, further solidifying the Murder House’s reputation as a place of darkness and despair.
Are there any other significant visual symbols associated with Tate Langdon?
Besides the skeleton makeup, Tate is often associated with dark clothing, a brooding demeanor, and intense stares. These visual cues further contribute to his image as a troubled and dangerous individual.
How was the audience reception to Tate’s skeleton makeup?
The skeleton makeup was widely praised by audiences and critics alike. It was considered a striking and memorable visual that effectively conveyed Tate’s inner turmoil and added to the overall horror of the episode.
What makes Tate Langdon such a compelling character in American Horror Story?
Tate Langdon’s complexity, his tragic backstory, and Evan Peters’ captivating performance all contribute to his compelling nature. He is a character who elicits both sympathy and fear, a product of trauma and a perpetrator of violence, making him a truly unforgettable figure in the American Horror Story universe. He embodies the show’s exploration of the darkest aspects of human nature and the lasting impact of the past.