Talking Movies: The Many Masks of Benedict Cumberbatch

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As Spling, I find myself utterly captivated by the mesmerizing journey of Benedict Cumberbatch in the world of cinema. This British thespian has not only mastered the art of acting but has also graced us with an array of unforgettable performances that have left audiences spellbound.

Welcome to Talking Movies, I’m Spling…

As a long-time admirer and follower of Benedict Cumberbatch’s career, I am thrilled to share that this week marks the beginning of a two-part series, “The Many Masks of Benedict Cumberbatch.” Having watched his transformation from a relatively unknown actor to a globally recognized talent, I can’t help but feel excited about delving deeper into the various roles he has played and the masks he has donned throughout his life. From the calculating mind of Sherlock Holmes to the courageous Dr. Strange, each character brings a unique aspect of Benedict’s versatility as an actor to light. I eagerly await this exploration of his craft and the insights it will provide into the man behind the masks.

Known as Benedict Cumberbatch, this distinguished English actor has earned awards, been honored with a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) title by Queen Elizabeth II, and recognized on Time magazine’s yearly list of the World’s Most Influential People. Before his acting career took off, he studied at Victoria University of Manchester, and later pursued a Master’s degree in Classical Acting at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.

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Prior to Eddie Redmayne’s portrayal of Stephen Hawking becoming well-known, Benedict Cumberbatch was the one who took on that role. As a talented actor, you might recall Cumberbatch appearing alongside James McAvoy in Starters for 10. Though he excels in leading roles, he has also delivered impressive performances in smaller supporting parts, which lend an air of old-world charm and elegance to period dramas like Atonement, War Horse, Dunkirk, and 1917.

Here are a few of his most memorable masks…

Stephen Hawking – Hawking (2004)

20 years back, Cumberbatch was already taking on complex roles requiring him to embody brilliance. It might be his long facial structure, piercing blue eyes, or aristocratic demeanor that give off an intelligent, slightly otherworldly vibe.

In the BBC movie “Hawking,” Benedict Cumberbatch portrays Hawking during his time at Cambridge University, which includes his battle against motor neuron disease. His remarkable performance, considered the initial screen representation of the renowned physicist by someone other than Hawking himself, earned him widespread acclaim from critics. This recognition particularly helped establish Cumberbatch’s acting career.

Vincent Van Gogh – Van Gogh: Painted with Words (2010)

Benedict Cumberbatch possesses a subtle charm, a trait less frequently utilized alongside his reputation for extraordinary intellect. Despite not being financially deprived, he skillfully emulated one of the art world’s most cherished impressionists. In a sense, he transformed into a shape-shifter, pouring his talents into a portrayal of Van Gogh that The Daily Telegraph praised as “passionate” and “bringing the famed artist to vibrant, blue-eyed existence”.

Sherlock Holmes – Sherlock (2010)

The list just wouldn’t be complete without adding his eponymous role as Sherlock Holmes. The contemporary version finds Cumberbatch giving his own spin to the character whose brilliance is cleverly edited to demonstrate how quickly his mind works. Sparring with Andrew Scott as his nemesis Moriarty in a modern London and joining many adventures with The Hobbit Trilogy co-star Martin Freeman, the revitalised Sherlock benefits from Cumberbatch’s immense presence and intoxicatingly wiley charms.

Victor Frankenstein/Frankenstein’s Monster – Frankenstein (2011)

Danny Boyle, known for directing “Slumdog Millionaire,” staged a version of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” at the Royal National Theatre. This production was shown in cinemas worldwide. Boyle’s adaptation earned considerable acclaim, with much of it going to Benedict Cumberbatch for his dual role as both Victor Frankenstein and his creature on stage. This stellar performance led Cumberbatch to win the “Triple Crown,” claiming the Critics’ Circle Theatre Award, Evening Standard Award, and the prestigious Olivier Award.

Smaug – The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

In discussions about motion capture, often referred to as “mocap”, it’s usually Andy Serkis’ name that comes up. Known as the undisputed master of motion capture performances, his work has significantly contributed to the technology being recognized at the Academy Awards. Although we are still in the early stages of creating fully digital characters or ones based on physical performances, Benedict Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Smaug is finally getting the recognition it deserves.

In these backstage videos, the actor’s transformative abilities are not fully captured by the phrase “gives it horns.” Instead, he shapes his body in a manner reminiscent of Tolkien’s dragons, while continuing to use his resonant voice and project an aura of ancient wisdom and intelligence.

Khan – Star Trek Into Darkness (2013)

Redefining Khan in Star Trek Beyond felt like a natural fit for Cumberbatch, yet some might argue it was overly apparent given his past roles on Sherlock. The movie delivers stunning visuals and thrilling entertainment, with the friendship between Kirk and Spock taking center stage. However, it’s Cumberbatch’s cunning, attention-grabbing portrayal of Khan as a powerful character harboring personal grudges that really raises this action-packed sequel to new heights.

In a powerfully compelling portrayal, Benedict Cumberbatch delivers an unquestionably captivating single-handed force and ruthless villainy. His character, Khan, is intricately complex, mirroring the allure of mystery and nuisance that Loki from The Avengers possesses, due to his cunning deceitful maneuvers.

Julian Assange (Asunge) – The Fifth Estate (2013)

Apart from his role as Smaug, Martin Freeman’s transformation into Julian Assange is arguably one of his most striking changes. Unlike his usual dramatic physical transformations seen in projects like Stuart: A Life Backwards with Tom Hardy (who was underappreciated for his portrayal of Bane in The Dark Knight Rises), this role involves more subtle adjustments, focusing on Freeman’s facial features rather than a drastic body change.

Opting for an extensive, white mane took me by surprise, considering audiences are accustomed to observing Cumberbatch evolve more subtly on-screen or on stage. Although the film didn’t quite live up to expectations, I seized the opportunity to explore something entirely new in The Fifth Estate, portraying the paranoid figurehead of WikiLeaks.

For more movie reviews, interviews and previous Talking Movies podcasts visit splingmovies.com.

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2024-08-17 22:43