It’s understandable that so many movies lean on CGI, as it’s flexible and can be bent to the every will of the filmmakers. But it is also very expensive and, in many cases, can’t quite match the real thing. Or, at least as real as a movie can make a thing. In this case, “M3GAN” benefits greatly from the use of practical techniques, which is an example of constraint paving the way for creativity. Speaking further, Wan explained that, though he’s a producer on the film, the credit belongs to Johnstone:
“That’s something that I wanna give credit to Gerard for – he really figured out how to infuse so much life into M3GAN. She is this inanimate object. She’s a doll, she’s a lifeless prop. But he was able to bring so much personality to her that M3GAN became such a strong character in the movie. She’s so sassy. She’s so funny. And she’s likable at the same time. We are very thankful for the technicians that were able to help us pull M3GAN off for the movie.”
Not to spoil anything, but it’s remarkable how much character the doll in question has. Much like Chucky from “Child’s Play” before her, M3GAN continues the cinematic tradition of killer dolls with a killer personality. Not to get ahead of ourselves here, but that very much can be the hallmark of a long-running horror franchise. Perhaps this is the start of a new one?
“M3GAN” is in theaters now.