Motion capture technology has become a critical tool in modern filmmaking. It allows actors to bring life to computer-generated characters in a previously impossible way. However, it wasn’t always viewed as a legitimate form of acting. One of the film’s most iconic motion capture performances was initially met with ridicule and skepticism.
Motion Capture: Skepticism and Ridicule
Andy Serkis, best known for his portrayal of Gollum in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy, recently spoke out about the humiliation he faced during the early days of motion capture. In an interview with GQ, Serkis revealed that many people didn’t understand what he was doing or why it was necessary.
“When Lord Of The Rings originally came out, there would be literally people who would say: ‘Who is that character? Is he a dancer? Is he a contortionist?'”
Suggested Article: ‘Why they changing so many designs?’: Deadpool Star Karan Soni’s ‘Radical’ Spider-Man India Look in Sony’s Across the Spider-Verse Draws Widespread Criticism
But it wasn’t just the general public skeptical of motion capture. Serkis also revealed that many of his fellow actors didn’t take it seriously either.
“Older actors were like: ‘You wouldn’t catch me dead doing motion capture. It’s the end of our profession.’ I literally heard someone saying that. “
Serkis even admitted that the technology was “ripe for ridiculing,” with Saturday Night Live sketches featuring actors in motion capture suits with ping pong balls attached.
“There were lots of jokes about it; you know, Saturday Night Live things with people in suits with ping pong balls attached. It was ripe for ridiculing – and rightly so.”
Motion capture technology has become a mainstay in modern filmmaking despite the initial backlash. It has been used in countless blockbuster movies, including the Marvel Cinematic Universe and James Cameron’s Avatar franchise. And while some still may not fully understand the art of motion capture, it has become widely accepted as a legitimate form of acting.
Oscar Recognition on the Horizon?
Serkis has continued to push the boundaries of motion capture, with acclaimed performances as Caesar in the Planet of the Apes reboots series and as the titular character in Disney’s live-action adaptation of The Jungle Book. He even directed the 2018 film Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle, which utilized motion capture technology to bring its animal characters to life.
And despite the early skepticism, Serkis believes that an actor will eventually win an Oscar for a motion capture performance. Motion capture technology has come a long way since the early days of The Lord of the Rings, and it’s clear that it’s here to stay.
While some may still view it with skepticism, there’s no denying the incredible performances brought to life through this innovative technology. And with more and more filmmakers embracing motion capture, it’s only a matter of time before it receives the recognition it deserves.
