Eric's Benedict Cumberbatch breaks down making of Netflix series puppet
In an exclusive clip, Cumberbatch explains how Eric was brought to life.
Emotional and unique drama series Eric has been making a stir on Netflix since its debut, not least because of its title character, the puppet monster that appears as a figment of central character Vincent's imagination.
Vincent and Eric are both played by Benedict Cumberbatch and, in an exclusive clip for RadioTimes.com, the star has broken down just how the puppet monster was brought to life.
In the clip, director Lucy Forbes explains that the team went through "many, many different phases" of designs for the character, while creator Abi Morgan says that there was a "huge legacy of monsters" that they had to "steer away from".
Cumberbatch then explains that Eric was inhabited by "a truly gifted performer", Olly Taylor, the lead puppeteer on the series, while his voice was put over the top afterwards.
You can watch the full clip right here now.
In the clip, it is revealed that Taylor had no vision out of the Eric suit, so instead he wore goggles which displayed to him screens, and cameras were dotted around the location so he could see what was going on.
Read more:
- The Split creator reveals "haunting" inspiration behind new Netflix series Eric
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Cumberbatch previously told RadioTimes.com that voicing Eric was "a joy" and that it was "one of the biggest draws to doing the character, to doing the role, to being part of this drama".
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However, he also admitted that fills him "with fear" as he doesn't "know how people are going to respond to it".
The series follows Cumberbatch's Vincent as his mental health deteriorates following the disappearance of his son Edgar. Together with a manifestation of his son's puppet monster Eric, Vincent tries desperately to get Edgar back.
Eric is available to stream on Netflix now. Sign up for Netflix from £4.99 a month. Netflix is also available on Sky Glass and Virgin Media Stream.
Check out more of our Drama coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.
Authors
James Hibbs is a Drama Writer for Radio Times, covering programmes across both streaming platforms and linear channels. He previously worked in PR, first for a B2B agency and subsequently for international TV production company Fremantle. He possesses a BA in English and Theatre Studies and an NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.