Actor spent up to 6 hours daily becoming DC’s shape-shifting metahuman
“Barry” star Anthony Carrigan is diving deep into the DC universe once again, this time transforming into one of comics’ most visually complex characters: Metamorpho. In an exclusive interview with Entertainment Weekly, the actor revealed the extraordinary lengths required to bring the element-manipulating metahuman to life in James Gunn’s upcoming “Superman” film.
The Ultimate Makeup Marathon
Carrigan’s transformation into Rex Mason, aka Metamorpho, required an intensive five-to-six-hour daily process that left him “glued in,” “sewn in,” and “completely enveloped.” The actor described layers upon layers of practical effects work, with materials being glued on, painted over, and then having more elements added on top.
“I was tied in…roped in, basically. But all in service of this incredible costume,” Carrigan explained, emphasizing his commitment to the elaborate practical effects approach.
Personal Connection to the Character
Director James Gunn’s casting choice wasn’t just about Carrigan’s acting abilities. The filmmaker specifically sought out Carrigan because of his personal understanding of feeling different. Carrigan, who has alopecia areata, connected with Metamorpho’s tragic nature on a deeply personal level.
“I really understood on a human level this idea of feeling different, feeling like something that has happened to you feels like a curse,” Carrigan shared, describing an unspoken understanding between him and Gunn about the character’s tortured existence.
Metamorpho’s Role in the New DC Universe
Unlike other heroes in the film such as Guy Gardner, Hawkgirl, and Mister Terrific, Metamorpho didn’t choose his powers. The character will appear in the narrative as a reluctant antagonist, forced by Lex Luthor to transform his body into kryptonite to weaken Superman.
“You’re in a situation where it’s having to hurt someone, having to be an agent of the bad guy,” Carrigan explained, noting how the film explores the painful reality of having no choice in the matter.
Practical Effects Over CGI
As a self-proclaimed fan of practical effects, Carrigan embraced the lengthy makeup process, drawing on childhood experiences with his sisters to find a tranquil state during the transformation. The actor believes the tactile nature of practical effects creates a more authentic performance.
The upcoming “Superman” film, starring David Corenswet as the Man of Steel alongside Rachel Brosnahan and Nicholas Hoult, will also feature nods to Metamorpho’s comic book origins, including the presence of Stagg Industries.
“Superman” will be in theaters and IMAX nationwide on July 11, 2025, and internationally beginning 9 July 2025, distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.
