The Thing’s Mo-Cap Suit Reveals Surprising Practical Element in MCU’s Fantastic Four

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The latest look at “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” movie unveiled an intriguing practical detail concerning the Thing’s motion capture suit. Ebon Moss-Bachrach, who will portray the stone-skinned superhero, is set to make his cinematic debut in Matt Shakman’s forthcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe blockbuster. Joining him are Pedro Pascal as Mr. Fantastic, Joseph Quinn as Human Torch, and Vanessa Kirby as Invisible Woman, creating a universe filled with superpowers.

As a dedicated movie enthusiast, I’ve had the privilege to catch an early glimpse at the upcoming ‘Fantastic Four’ reboot, focusing specifically on the transformation of The Thing. This sneak peek has sparked quite a buzz among fans, with one specific practical effect in a scene causing quite a stir. The anticipation surrounding Bachrach’s portrayal of this classic comic book character has been palpable since production began, as everyone wondered what aspects would be real-life and what would be digitally enhanced.

The sneak peek at the movie, which is being shown in cinemas, includes a backstage photo (as reported by Fantastic Four Update News on X).

In the kitchen of the Baxter Building, Ben Grimm, portrayed by Bachrach, and Johnny Storm, played by Quinn, are seen enjoying a drink together. While Bachrach donned a motion-capture suit to embody his stoic superhero, it’s evident to fans that HERBIE, the Fantastic Four’s robotic assistant, was more than just a screen illusion on set.

In a fresh scene, the robot-servo is positioned behind Bachrach and Quinn’s characters at the bar, as they toast each other. This implies that the character HERBIE was indeed utilized in some capacity during the film production, a fact that may come as a shock to many.

As a movie reviewer, I can tell you that during the filming of HERBIE, a wooden stand-in and an animatronic controlled by four off-screen operators were used to capture the character on set. These elements were intended to be seamlessly blended with CGI in post-production to create the final, living version of Herbie you’ll see on the big screen.

In an interview, SFX supervisor Alistair Williams revealed that their main robot, dubbed ‘HERBIE’, is equipped with a movable head and limbs, which were often seen maneuvering across the set and carrying out different tasks.

The main character we’re using in this production possesses a fully functional head and limbs. He’s been maneuvering our set, tidying up, gathering toys, even preparing Martinis…”

Or more casually:

“Our lead actor has a movable head and arms. We’ve got him cruising around the set, cleaning up, picking up toys, even mixing Martinis…

In the upcoming movie “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” HERBIE makes its debut on the silver screen, taking on the role of Marvel’s initial family’s robotic aide. The character will be given voice by Matthew Wood, renowned for his work as General Grievous in the Star Wars Saga films.

The upcoming “Fantastic Four” movie is helmed by Matt Shakman, who is also behind the TV show “WandaVision”. It features Pedro Pascal, Ebon Moss Bachrach, Vanessa Kirby, and Joseph Quinn as its main heroes. In this new action-packed flick, the team must grapple with their impending doom when they encounter Galactus, a fearsome cosmic entity that feeds on planets (portrayed by Ralph Ineson).

The Practical HERBIE Is a Sign of Good Things To Come

A practical HERBIE being used in The Fantastic Four: First Steps is a big deal. 

Recently, there’s been quite a buzz surrounding the extensive use of Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI) in today’s blockbuster films. This movie is no exception, with viewers expressing concern about how Ebon Moss Bachrach’s character, The Thing, will be portrayed on screen (as it has been confirmed that motion capture technology will be employed for its depiction).

Instead, it’s thrilling for fans to know that the forthcoming Marvel Studios movie might heavily utilize both practical and digital special effects.

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but marvel at how modern-day epics like “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” and Denis Villeneuve’s “Dune” transport me into their captivating worlds. It’s the seamless blend of computer-generated (CG) elements with practical effects that makes it all feel so incredibly authentic, as if I could reach out and touch the stars or the sands of Arrakis.

In a retro-futuristic atmosphere, the Fantastic Four movie creates a sense of realism through its use of practical effects, reminiscent of a time when sci-fi films were made, which will undoubtedly enhance the viewing experience.

Absolutely, you’re correct. The project will indeed feature a colossal CGI rock monster among its principal characters. However, this mechanical Herbie robot demonstrates Marvel’s willingness to invest effort into having a real prop in motion on set whenever an ideal scenario arises.

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2025-07-06 00:34