The Truth About The Thing Costume in the MCU's Fantastic Four Reboot
Discover the new look for 'It's Clobberin' Time' in the latest Fantastic Four installment, debunking misconceptions about the iconic costume.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach, known for his role in The Bear, is set to play Ben Grimm a.k.a The Thing in Marvel’s Fantastic Four. This marks his return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe after portraying David Lieberman (Micro) in Punisher. The upcoming movie also stars Pedro Pascal as Mister Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby as the Invisible Woman, and Joseph Quinn as the Human Torch.
As the Fantastic Four join the MCU, it is important for the franchise to avoid the mistakes of past movies. Moss-Bachrach's casting as The Thing brings new hope, but his opinions on the character's costume have sparked some debate. During a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel's show, the actor shared his thoughts on the visual appearance of his iconic character, adding to the ongoing Marvel discussions.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach's The Thing Will Probably Be A Motion-Capture Performance
The Bear Star Describes Practical Costumes As "Amateur" Compared To Modern Technology
A split image of Ebon Moss-Bachrach in Andor and the Thing in Marvel Comics - The Bear Star Describes Practical Costumes As "Amateur" Compared To Modern Technology - Ebon Moss-Bachrach's The Thing Will Probably Be A Motion-Capture Performance
Ebon Moss-Bachrach, like most MCU actors, prefers to keep details about the production under wraps. However, during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show, Moss-Bachrach hinted that The Thing might be recreated using motion-capture technology, similar to how Hulk and Thanos were brought to life in the franchise. When asked if he would wear a suit made of rocks like Michael Chiklis did in the 2005 Fantastic Four films, Moss-Bachrach mentioned that practical suits are outdated in superhero movies, calling them "amateur" and likening them to "cosplay".
I believe we've moved past that now, it's more like cosplay, a bit amateurish, especially with the technology available today. These days, it's mostly about performance captured through motion capture technology.
Michael Chiklis chose a practical costume for his role, but Jamie Bell portrayed the Thing through motion-capture in the 2015 film Fantastic Four. It's not surprising that Moss-Bachrach doesn't value practical costumes much, as the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is leaning towards CGI-rendered motion-capture performances. The franchise often relies on CGI-heavy versions of live-action superhero costumes, from Spider-Man's iconic suit to Moon Knight's unique outfit. Given The Thing's rock-like appearance, it's possible that the MCU's version of the character could resemble Korg, a Kronan warrior made of rock-like material.
The Fox Fantastic Four Movies Had Thing In A Practical Costume
Michael Chiklis Brought The Suit To Life Even When He Was Uncomfortable
Michael Chiklis as The Thing in Fantastic Four looking off-screen - Michael Chiklis Brought The Suit To Life Even When He Was Uncomfortable - The Fox Fantastic Four Movies Had Thing In A Practical Costume
In 1994, stuntman Carl Ciarfalio wore a memorable rubber costume for the never-released Fantastic Four movie. Years later, Michael Chiklis chose a practical approach for his portrayal of the character, despite advancements in visual effects. The result was a faithful representation of the Fantastic Four team member, capturing his rocky appearance, distinctive eyebrow ridge, and four-fingered hands. Considered one of the best live-action Fantastic Four costumes, the use of prosthetics and makeup brought a sense of realism to The Thing, allowing Chiklis to convey the character's inner sadness through his expressive eyes.
Every Actor Who Played The Thing | Movie |
|---|---|
Michael Bailey Smith/Carl Ciarfalio | Fantastic Four (unreleased) (1994) |
Michael Chiklis | Fantastic Four (2005) and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007) |
Jamie Bell | Fantastic Four (2015) |
Ebon Moss-Bachrach | Marvel's Fantastic Four (upcoming) |
Bringing Ben Grimm’s physically altered version to the big screen was no easy feat. It took over five-and-a-half hours daily to put on the latex foam suit on Chiklis. Eating, drinking, and even going to the washroom were nearly impossible when in costume, as the actor shared with The New York Times. Sweating was also a common issue inside the suit. The experience was so tough that Chiklis even sought help from a psychologist. Despite the challenges, the actor was proud of his performance. In his own words to MovieWeb, he described it as “a little like being in the seventh circle of hell, but in a good way.”
Not All Practical Costumes Can Look Amateur
Guardians Of The Galaxy, Suicide Squad And More Offer Hope
Dave Bautista as Drax looking surprised in Guardians of the Galaxy - Guardians Of The Galaxy, Suicide Squad And More Offer Hope - Not All Practical Costumes Can Look Amateur
Michael Chiklis delivered a standout performance as The Thing in the Fox Fantastic Four movies, despite facing challenges on set. While Ebon Moss-Bachrach believes that motion-capture technology can outshine practical suits, traditional prosthetics still hold a special place in the superhero genre. Marvel's shift towards CGI costumes hasn't diminished the appeal of practical makeup and costumes, as seen in characters like Drax the Destroyer, Gamora, and Nebula from Guardians of the Galaxy.
The DC Extended Universe has also showcased some impressive practical effects. The makeup team that won an Oscar for Suicide Squad did a fantastic job transforming Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje into Killer Croc using practical effects. In the early 2000s, comic book movies like Fantastic Four and X-Men featured convincing practical costumes, such as Mystique's scaly blue skin and Abe Sapien's fish-like appearance in Hellboy. While Ebon Moss-Bachrach's acting skills could bring depth to The Thing in Marvel's Fantastic Four, a practical suit might have been just as effective, if not better, than motion capture technology.
Editor's P/S:
The article provides an interesting perspective on the debate between practical costumes and motion-capture technology in superhero movies. Ebon Moss-Bachrach's preference for motion capture aligns with the current trend in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, the article also highlights the merits of practical costumes, which can bring a sense of realism and physicality to characters. While motion-capture technology offers greater flexibility and detail, it can sometimes lack the tangible presence of practical suits.
Ultimately, the choice between practical costumes and motion capture should be based on the specific needs of the character and the overall artistic vision of the film. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is up to the filmmakers to determine which method will best serve their storytelling goals. The upcoming Marvel's Fantastic Four movie will be a test case for how the studio balances these two techniques to create a compelling and visually stunning adaptation of the beloved comic book characters.
