You may not recognizeToby Kebbellwhen he’s not wearing a mask or hidden behind a CG character, but he’s turned in some great performances in huge films over the last few years. Because of the detached nature of Kebbell’s appearance from that of his characters, he might not have gotten much recognition for his villainous performance as Koba in 2014’sDawn of the Planet of the Apes, but he also didn’t take much blame for his portrayal of Doctor Doom in the poorly received reboot ofFantastic Four.
If you’re one of the many fans who were not pleased with Fox’s film about the first family of superheroes, Kebbell understands and he thanks you for your honesty. In a recent interview withIGN, he cited the “customer is always right” mantra when it comes to fan reactions. I like that Kebbell seems to have a firm grasp on the difficulties of making an entertaining film, while also staying grounded as an actor. It’s one of the more honest responses you’ll get out of Hollywood.
Watch Kebbell reflect on the poor response toFantastic Fourand talk about what he learned during the experience:
You may not have recognized Kebbell from eitherDawn of the Planet of the ApesorFantastic Four, and that’s not likely to change with his next big film:Warcraft. If you’ve seen theambitious fantasy film’s first trailer, you’ve already seen Kebbell in character; he plays Durotan, the protagonist of the Horde and Chieftain of the Frostwolf Clan. Here’s hoping thatWarcraftmanages to flip the switch on a run of less-than-stellar video game movie adaptations. Whether it does or not, Kebbell will be sheltered behind his CG-character’s appearance once again.
He likely won’t have that luxury for his part of Messala inTimur Bekmambetov’sBen-Hur, a character that is the title hero’s friend and rival. Kebbell will then switch gears forJ.A. Bayona’sfantasy dramaA Monster Calls.He’s currently filmingJordan Vogt-Roberts’Kong: Skull Islandin an unknown role. I don’t thinkFantastic Fourhas hurt Kebbell at all, but the next couple of years could be absolutely huge … as long as people recognize him.
