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New Tom Hanks Film "Here" and the Unsettling 'De-Aging' Technology that Keeps Celebs Forever Young
Tom Hanks stars in the upcoming film "Here," which highlights the capabilities of digital de-aging technology. The picture reunites Hanks with filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, who is recognised for his concern with time and technological innovation. De-aging technology has progressed from novelty to a useful tool in filmmaking.
Robert Zemeckis directed the film, which is based on Richard McGuire's graphic novel of the same name. It takes viewers on a voyage through time, studying the history of a piece of land from multiple perspectives. Fans have been drawn to the astonishing de-aging effects utilised to transform Hanks and co-star Robin Wright back into teenagers.
Fans of the legendary film 'Forrest Gump' were not only delighted to see Hanks and Zemeckis reunited in the recently released teaser, but also astounded by the digital wizardry that converted the actors into their youthful selves. Hanks, 67, is pictured with a small body, a young face, and a head full of curly hair, reminiscent of his early roles in films such as "Splash" and "Bachelor Party" (1984). This begs the question: how long until de-aging becomes as popular as applying hair dye and makeup to improve an actor's appearance?
Zemeckis has always been interested in the passage of time and how it impacts individuals and places. This obsession is obvious in his past writings, including "Forrest Gump" and the "Back to the Future" trilogy. He has also been at the vanguard of digital innovation, using motion capture technology to create lifelike animated characters for films such as "The Polar Express," "Beowulf," and "A Christmas Carol."
Interestingly, Hanks seemed unconcerned by the prospect of portraying youthful characters perpetually. In a podcast interview, he revealed his confidence that advances in AI and deep-fake technology will enable performers to reproduce themselves at any age, even after they have passed away. This raises the disturbing prospect that future generations will witness the rise of AI doppelgangers replacing their favourite celebrities.
While de-aging may appear to be a fresh concept, it has swiftly emerged as a significant tool in filmmaking. In 2006, visual effects designers employed pixel-by-pixel de-aging techniques to revitalise actors Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen in "X-Men: The Last Stand." Since then, the technique has been used sparingly in films like as "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" and "Tron: Legacy." However, de-aging became the focus of numerous significant movies in 2019, including "Captain Marvel," "Avengers: Endgame," "Gemini Man," and "The Irishman."
Despite its increasing popularity, the effects of de-aging have been varied. While some fans enjoy the nostalgia and the chance to witness their favourite celebrities in their prime, others find the striking resemblance irritating. In films like "The Irishman," where Robert De Niro was digitally de-aged, the difference in the character's appearance and body was obvious. This begs the question of whether traditional rejuvenation approaches, such as casting younger actors or using prosthetics, are more effective in specific situations.
For the time being, de-aging is mostly utilised to elicit nostalgia and remind viewers of films they loved as children. The emotional impact of watching a digitally regenerated Tom Hanks in "Here" is based on our memories of his earlier career. Similarly, Harrison Ford's de-aged performance in the final Indiana Jones film adds to the excitement of viewing the renowned character's epic escapades. Regardless of its futuristic aspect, de-aging technology appears to be stuck in the past.
"Here" will be released in US cinemas on November 15th, giving spectators a glimpse into the potential of de-aging technology and its impact on the future of filmmaking.
Tom Hanks stars in the upcoming film "Here," showcasing the power of digital de-aging technology.
The film reunites Hanks with director Robert Zemeckis, known for his fascination with time and digital innovation.
De-aging technology has evolved from a novelty to a valuable tool in filmmaking.
Source: BBC