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Ebon Moss-Bachrach Brings The Thing’s Iconic Catchphrase to Life in The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Jan
The Importance of “It’s Clobberin’ Time!” in The Thing’s Legacy
For fans of Marvel Comics, The Thing’s catchphrase, “It’s clobberin’ time!” is far more than just a battle cry—it’s a symbol of his gritty determination, blue-collar charm, and larger-than-life personality. First introduced in the early 1960s as part of the Fantastic Four’s debut, Ben Grimm quickly became a fan favorite due to his mix of gruff toughness and heartfelt loyalty to his teammates.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach revealed during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live that he made a point to include the catchphrase while filming. “I slipped it in there a couple times,” he shared, adding with a laugh, “I don’t have final cut on this one.” The actor’s dedication to preserving this aspect of The Thing’s character underscores his commitment to honoring the source material and delivering a performance that resonates with lifelong fans.
This iconic line is expected to appear in pivotal moments of the film, and its inclusion speaks to Marvel Studios’ broader goal of staying true to the heart of its characters while reimagining their stories for modern audiences.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach: Bringing Humanity to the Hero
Casting Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm reflects Marvel’s dedication to pairing top-tier acting talent with iconic roles. Known for his nuanced performances in shows like The Bear and Girls, Moss-Bachrach brings a unique blend of grit and emotional depth to the part.
In the comics, Ben Grimm’s journey is defined by his transformation into The Thing—a rocky, superhuman powerhouse—following exposure to cosmic radiation during an ill-fated space mission. While his physical form changes dramatically, his heart and humanity remain intact, creating one of the most emotionally compelling arcs in the Marvel Universe.
Moss-Bachrach’s portrayal is expected to capture this duality. He shared that his approach to the role focuses on balancing Ben’s tough exterior with his vulnerability and inner struggle. The actor’s experience playing complex characters makes him a natural fit for a role that requires both physicality and emotional resonance.
Revolutionary Technology Brings The Thing to Life
One of the most exciting aspects of The Fantastic Four: First Steps is the use of cutting-edge motion-capture technology to depict The Thing. Moss-Bachrach worked closely with The Imaginarium, the studio founded by motion-capture pioneer Andy Serkis, to create a realistic and nuanced portrayal of the character’s rocky form.
Unlike earlier adaptations, where The Thing was brought to life using practical effects or limited CGI, this film leverages advancements in performance capture to ensure that every facial expression and movement reflects Moss-Bachrach’s performance. This approach allows the character’s humanity to shine through his imposing appearance, enhancing the emotional connection between Ben Grimm and the audience.
The level of detail in The Thing’s design, combined with Moss-Bachrach’s performance, promises to set a new standard for how Marvel brings its larger-than-life heroes to the screen.
A Retro-Futuristic Setting for Marvel’s First Family
The Fantastic Four: First Steps takes place in a retro-futuristic 1960s setting, offering a fresh perspective on Marvel’s First Family. Directed by Matt Shakman, the film embraces the aesthetics of the era, blending mid-century design with advanced technology to create a world that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
This creative decision serves as a tribute to the Fantastic Four’s origins in the early 1960s, when they were first introduced by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. By grounding the story in this time period, the film pays homage to its roots while exploring the timeless dynamics of family, teamwork, and resilience.
The retro-futuristic approach also allows for unique storytelling opportunities. From exploring the space race to integrating period-specific cultural references, the film’s setting enhances its distinct identity within the MCU. It also sets the stage for the Fantastic Four’s eventual integration into the larger Marvel universe.
A Stellar Cast and High Stakes Await Fans
In addition to Moss-Bachrach, The Fantastic Four: First Steps features an impressive ensemble cast. Pedro Pascal takes on the role of Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic, Vanessa Kirby stars as Sue Storm/Invisible Woman, and Joseph Quinn portrays Johnny Storm/Human Torch. The film’s primary antagonist, Galactus, is played by Ralph Ineson, promising an epic showdown that will challenge the team both individually and as a unit.
Fans have expressed excitement about this star-studded lineup, as each actor brings their own unique talents to their respective roles. The chemistry among the cast is expected to be a highlight, capturing the blend of camaraderie and conflict that defines the Fantastic Four’s dynamic.
As the July 25, 2025, release date approaches, anticipation continues to build for The Fantastic Four: First Steps. The film promises to deliver a fresh take on Marvel’s First Family while staying true to the heart of what makes these characters iconic.
Conclusion
Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s portrayal of The Thing in The Fantastic Four: First Steps is shaping up to be a standout performance, driven by his dedication to preserving the character’s legacy. From incorporating the beloved catchphrase “It’s clobberin’ time!” to embracing cutting-edge technology and a retro-futuristic setting, the film combines innovation with nostalgia to create an unforgettable experience for fans.
With a stellar cast, groundbreaking visuals, and a story rooted in the timeless themes of family and heroism, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is poised to redefine how Marvel’s First Family is presented on screen. For Moss-Bachrach, the opportunity to bring humanity and depth to Ben Grimm ensures that audiences will connect with The Thing in a way they never have before.
From nacreboutique