I often refer to Andy Serkis as our modern day Lon Chaney Sr. Chaney, for those unaware, was often referred to as “The Man of a Thousand Faces” for his ability to disappear into his roles with the help of heavy duty makeup. Here now in the digital age, I can’t think of a better nickname for Mr. Serkis as he continues to make his mark in captivating mo-cap performances including but not limited to Lord of the Rings and Rise of the Planet of the Apes. What’s clear after a video like the one below, which comes courtesy of Entertainment Weekly, is just how much much of Serkis’ performance makes it to the final product. As he reads from “The Hobbit,” his face instantly transforms into the one we know as Gollum – a trick as cool as it is a little bit terrifying.
Studios have tried and failed in the past to get Serkis into the conversation come Oscar time. Perhaps this new round of Hobbit films will finally bring Serkis the accolade many feel he deserves.