Unveiling the Genetic Condition Behind Javier Botet's Remarkable Acting Journey

Javier Botet, a Spanish actor, is well-known for his roles as creatures in various horror films and popular movie series. He started his acting career in 2005 with the Spanish movie Beneath Still Waters, where he played a creature known as a "humanoid". Since then, Botet has continued to portray fantastical creatures in a wide range of films, often covered in elaborate makeup and costumes.

In iconic horror franchises like the Conjuring universe, It, and REC, Botet has taken on memorable roles such as the cane-wielding Crooked Man, the diseased "Hobo" avatar of Pennywise, and La Niña Medeiros, the original carrier of the virus who grows to an unnatural size. His unique genetic syndrome enables him to excel in playing characters like Dracula in The Last Voyage of the Demeter and other similar roles that require a tall, thin, and ominous presence.

Javier Botet Has Marfan Syndrome

The Genetic Disorder Causes Elongated Limbs

Javier Botet has been open about his Marfan syndrome, which is the reason for his unique appearance. Diagnosed at the age of six, Marfan syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that results in extreme height and slenderness. Botet stands at 6 feet 6 inches and weighs 120 pounds, and he is also double-jointed. This syndrome affects the fibers that support and anchor organs and other structures in the body. Other features of Marfan syndrome include disproportionately large hands and fingers, heart murmurs, nearsightedness, and an abnormally curved spine.

Botet Believes His Condition Gives Him an Advantage As An Actor

Javier Botet, a Spanish actor known for his work in horror films, has a unique advantage in the industry. Botet lives with Marfan Syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects the body's connective tissue. Despite the challenges he faces due to his condition, Botet believes that it gives him a distinctive edge in his acting career.

Marfan Syndrome Is A Benefit Not A Detriment For Botet

Javier Botet as Dracula Showing Teeth in The Last Voyage of the Demeter - Marfan Syndrome Is A Benefit Not A Detriment For Botet - Botet Says His Condition Gives Him An Advantage As An Actor

According to Javier Botet, his unique condition has actually been an advantage in his career. In an interview with BBC, Botet shares how his love for science fiction and monsters led him to study art and special effects in Madrid. During his workshops, his tutor noticed that his specific frame made him perfect for trying on monster makeup and costumes. This opportunity eventually led to his first role in 2005, which was a breakthrough moment for him in the horror film REC, where he played a key role in one of the scariest scenes. Botet mentions that he had plenty of practice scaring people.

I have a condition called Marfan syndrome, which makes people thinner, taller, and very flexible. Because of this, I have always been able to do strange tricks and movements to have fun with my friends.

This flexibility has led me to excel in horror films, particularly in The Conjuring 2. In the movie, the Crooked Man, a terrifying character with long legs and a top hat, is one of the most frightening creatures. The way he moves almost resembles a stop-motion animatronic effect, achieved through slo-mo and editing tricks by director James Wan. The rest of the eerie movements were performed by Botet.

Spanish special effects artist David Martí is bothered when people mistakenly refer to characters like the Crooked Man as CGI. He, along with his collaborator Javier Botet, won an Oscar for their work on Pan's Labyrinth. Martí emphasizes that actors like Botet should not be labeled as simply creature performers or monster guys, but rather recognized as talented actors. He also mentions his admiration for actors like Doug Jones and Javier, emphasizing that they should not be reduced to just wearing a mask.

Martí believes that creature performers possess the same level of acting talent as traditional dramatic actors. He makes a valid point. While part of Botet's success can be attributed to his unique appearance and the work of costume and makeup artists, the majority of it stems from his acting abilities. Botet does not simply put on a monster suit and move around like a stiff creature; he fully embodies the characters, contorting them into unnatural positions that only he, as the actor, can envision.

In many of his roles, such as the Witch disguised as a grandmother in It, the Crooked Man, and Mama in Mama, Botet has a distinct way of moving through a scene that is both terrifying and authentic. He thrashes around, using his long limbs to encircle the frame, creating a sense of claustrophobic fear that seems impossible to escape. This deliberate movement is just as much of an acting choice as shedding a well-timed tear in a dramatic moment. It takes a talented and experienced actor like Botet to have the confidence and skill to successfully execute such a performance.

People Were Shocked To Learn Botet's Mama Character Isn't CGI

Mama Made Botet A Star

Javier Botet as Mama attacking the screen in Mama. - Mama Made Botet A Star - People Were Shocked To Learn Botet's Mama Character Isn't CGI

In the movie Mama, Botet's portrayal of the terrifying monster caught the attention of many horror fans. Directed by Andy Muschietti and produced by Guillermo del Toro, the film showcased Botet's talent as a horror actor. Surprisingly, many viewers believed that the ghostly character Mama was created using CGI. However, Botet revealed that it was actually his remarkable performance that brought the monster to life on screen.

The filmmakers were surprised to learn that 90% of what they saw on screen was actually performed by Javier Botet through physical work.

To showcase Botet's talent, a behind-the-scenes YouTube video was created. This video featured screen tests of Botet moving in the Mama costume, which was even scarier than the actual movie. The video quickly gained over 1.3 million views, bringing Botet to the attention of horror directors and casting directors. His ability to move unnaturally and control his body made him a sought-after actor for creature roles.

Botet considered that BTS video some of his, "Best work." He goes on to say,

Having practical effects in films can really make a difference. Botet's work shows that 90% of what audiences see is his physical performance. This is what has truly helped his career grow, as many recognize that his work without CGI is just as impressive.

What's Next For Javier Botet?

The Actor Has An Upcoming Movie And TV Show

Javier Botet as Javi shushing someone in Amigo. - The Actor Has An Upcoming Movie And TV Show - What's Next For Javier Botet?

Javier Botet is not just known for playing creatures in horror films. He is a versatile actor who also takes on roles in comedies and dramas in Spain, portraying his human characters. In 2024, Botet will be portraying Miguel in the series En Fin. This Spanish show follows the story of a man who leaves his family after hearing news of an impending apocalypse, only to return when the world doesn't end. Additionally, Botet will be seen as the "Pale Creature" in the upcoming horror movie Do Not Enter, directed by Marc Klasfeld.

WATCH MAMA ON AMAZON PRIME VIDEO

Editor's P/S:

Javier Botet's story is a testament to the power of embracing one's unique qualities. Despite the challenges posed by Marfan syndrome, Botet has turned his condition into an advantage, using his distinctive appearance and physical abilities to excel in the horror genre. His passion for science fiction and monsters, coupled with the support of talented collaborators, has allowed him to create truly terrifying and memorable characters that have captivated audiences worldwide.

Botet's success also highlights the importance of recognizing the contributions of creature performers. While the work of costume and makeup artists is undeniably crucial, it is the actor's physical performance and embodiment of the character that ultimately brings these creatures to life. Botet's ability to move and contort his body in unnatural ways, combined with his nuanced acting skills, elevates his performances beyond mere costumes and makeup. He deserves recognition as a talented actor who has mastered the art of creating authentic and terrifying horror characters.