It's easy to get caught up in the massive effects of big budget movies today.
From skyscrapers crashing down to giant monsters, it may seem like blockbusters are closer to cartoons today than films. But underneath the "digital makeup" of a 200-foot gorilla is a real actor who went to pain-staking lengths to bring the monster to life.
Over the course of a year, actor Jason Liles studied apes at zoos and in documentaries, taking in their movements and behaviors, learning to not only mimic them, but understand the mentality behind their social interactions with other apes and humans.
For the actor [motion capture] is just what you're wearing; it's just the clothes you're wearing on set. The acting, creating a character, becoming one physically, psychologically, vocally -- it's the same.
Together with mentor Terry Notary ("Planet of the Apes," "King Kong") Liles would spend hours in arm extensions walking through the Santa Monica hills until his movements as an ape were as natural as his own walking.
Check out the video above for a demo from Liles of what it takes to act like a gorilla and be sure to check out "Rampage" starring Jason and Dwayne Johnson in theaters now.
Check out more stories on Circa.com:
New trailer offers glimpse at 'Solo: A Star Wars Story'
'Avengers: Infinity War' directors, and actors ask fans for secrecy
The Rock is giving away $300,000 is you can answer trivia questions
