Thor: Love and Thunder will feature a terrifying villain in the form of Gorr the God Butcher. The character is set to be portrayed on screen by Christian Bale, an actor who is best known for his roles in Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy, Vice, Rescue Dawn, and American Hustle. The anticipation surrounding Bale’s Marvel debut has been sky-high, especially after director Taika Waititi revealed that Gorr is the studio’s best villain ever according to test audiences.
While Gorr is expected to unleash his wrath over different Gods in the film, Love and Thunder lead star Chris Hemsworth noted that the villain “has a truthful motivation” and that audiences will be able to “understand why he’s been tipped over the edge and why he’s gone down this path.”
Marketing for Thor 4 has been hyping up Bale’s MCU arrival through promo images and concept art ahead of his first on-screen appearance. Ultimately, the film’s second trailer officially unveiled the first footage of the villain, giving fans a peek at the character’s impressive yet terrifying design.
Now, ahead of the film’s premiere, the process behind Bale’s transformation into the bald villain has been revealed.
Thor 4 Photos Unveil Christian Bale’s ‘Bald’ Process
Thor: Love and Thunder makeup artist Bart Mixon shared a new batch of behind-the-scenes photos from the movie, showcasing the process of how Christian Bale went bald for his role as Gorr the God Butcher.
Mixon first confirmed that Bale was unable to shave his head for the sequel’s reshoots, unlike during principal photography. As a result, a bald cap was required for the actor:
Christian Bale’s Dedication to Thor 4 Villain Role
Christian Bale’s rigorous transformation into Gorr the God Butcher is a welcome sight for Marvel fans, mainly because it exemplifies the actor’s dedication to the role. The fact that Bale also shaved his head for the role during principal photography also cements his love for the character.
Similar to Bale’s Gorr, there are other MCU stars who have had experience in lengthy makeup chair sessions.
Dave Bautista, who portrays Drax of the Guardians of the Galaxy, initially spent three to five hours of makeup on the first film before trimming it down to 90 minutes by using a “shirt” for his arms and upper body. Meanwhile, Zoe Saldana, who plays Gamora, transforms into her green-skinned character for three hours through intensely detailed work from two makeup artists.
Based on previous reports about Bale’s portrayal of Gorr, signs indicate that the character is set to have a strong MCU debut. It is unknown if Gorr will return after the events of Thor: Love and Thunder, but the villain is poised to have a memorable performance that should be enough to leave a mark in the eyes of many Marvel fans.
Thor: Love and Thunder is set to premiere in theaters on July 8.