Fantastic Four Used a Rock Named Jennifer as The Thing Stand-In

Marvel Studios has once again pushed the boundaries of filmmaking innovation with their latest approach in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Instead of using a traditional actor stand-in for the character Ben Grimm, also known as The Thing, the production team employed a rather unconventional method: a rock named Jennifer.

Director Matt Shakman explained that the team ventured into the desert to find a rock that perfectly embodied the craggy, rugged look they envisioned for The Thing. This rock was filmed in every scene where The Thing appears, under all lighting conditions. The practical stand-in served as a crucial reference for the CGI animators, helping them accurately replicate the texture, color, and lighting effects needed to bring the character to life on screen.

This approach ensured that the final CGI version of The Thing avoided looking overly cartoonish, instead achieving a grounded and realistic appearance. Actor Ebon Moss-Bachrach, who performs the motion capture for Ben Grimm, expressed his admiration for the collaborative effort behind animating such a complex character and his satisfaction with the final look.

Beyond the physical portrayal, Moss-Bachrach connected deeply with the character’s roots, emphasizing Ben Grimm’s identity as a Lower East Side New Yorker. This personal connection added emotional depth to his performance, honoring the character’s creator Jack Kirby and the homage to his father embedded in the story.

Why Using a Rock as a Stand-In Matters

In visual effects-heavy productions, practical references are invaluable. They provide animators with real-world lighting and texture data that digital tools alone can struggle to replicate. By filming the rock Jennifer in every scene, the team ensured consistency and realism in the CGI rendering process.

This method also highlights the collaborative nature of modern filmmaking, where practical effects, motion capture, and digital animation converge to create believable characters. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest solutions—like a well-chosen rock—can have a profound impact on the final cinematic experience.

Looking Ahead

The Fantastic Four: First Steps is set to premiere on July 25, 2025. This innovative approach to character creation sets a new standard for superhero films, blending practical ingenuity with cutting-edge technology. Fans and filmmakers alike can look forward to a visually stunning and emotionally resonant portrayal of one of Marvel’s most iconic characters.