[h2]4. Andy Serkis [/h2]
This choice may be both simple and obvious, but given the number of CGI characters that are sure to inhabit Abrams’ Star Wars, the master of performance-capture is absolutely worth consideration. One of the prequel trilogy’s failings was its inability to use modern technology to craft memorable, compelling alien characters – sans Yoda, who was based on pre-existing physical designs – but Andy Serkis has proven, time and time again, that he can breathe life and personality into absolutely anything. If Episode VII requires a major animated character and Serkis is not hired for the part, the filmmakers should probably be labeled legally insane, for Serkis is not just a great pioneer of modern technological performance, but a tremendous actor in his own right. And while he is ‘famous,’ his work is so versatile and transformative that audiences would have no trouble whatsoever buying him in a new context. We have done so many times before, and always been happy for it.
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