Compendium Films

Realistic WWII Aircraft Finishing Techniques

Reviewed By  Dave Morrissette, IPMS# 33653

MSRP: $24.95 each Review Sample Supplied by Casemate Publishing: www.casematepublishing.com Compendium Films has been producing excellent modeling videos for a while now with subject ranging from Accurate Armor and Aircraft detailing to Figure painting to Painting Warhorses. One of the new releases is "Realistic WWII Aircraft Detailing" which allows Geoff Illsey, an award winning modeler, to show of his tricks of the trade. The DVD is broken down into a very nice menu that includes: Painting Spinner Spirals. Wheels and Masking. Luftwaffe Mottled Camouflage. Natural Metal Finishes. Decal Finishing. Canopies. Weathering and Color Shift. The production quality is very good with clear shots of each process and a thorough explanation of each. One great "aha" moment for me was when the masking of spinners of propeller hubs was demonstrated. Mr. Illsey started by showing how he calculates the angles and masks the part. For years I have struggled with using kit and aftermarket decals- no more. The masking is simple and easy and he shows the results on a Bf109 that look stunning. Can't wait to try it. Also included are sections on masking and painting wheels. Have you ever painted a hub and thought that you could then paint the wheel around it only to mess up the hub and end up repainting? The technique used here is to get a much thinner version of the wheel color and let it flow around the hub by capillary action, let it dry and then paint the remainder of the wheel for a perfect demarcation. Why didn't I think of that! The rest of the video offers excellent tips and methods for natural metal finishes, canopies and subtle weathering.

In addition to the 56 minutes of primary video, there is a series of extras including an interview with Mr. Illsey, shots of his finished models, correcting mistakes and more tips and tricks. Last, there is a list of recommended products used with web sites. Total playing time is over 90 minutes.

The entire series is very highly recommended and this is no exception. When I get a video like this, my primary goal is to learn new things and be able to apply them to my modeling. This provides tips, tricks and methods that will help novices to experts. My thanks to Tara and all the wonderful people at Casemate Publishing for the chance to review this video!