Jason Faunt Reveals Leon's Motion Capture Secrets in Resident Evil

Becoming Leon Kennedy

Landing the iconic role of Leon Kennedy wasn't accidental. Jason Faunt credits his Power Rangers connection with Reuben Langdon (Chris Redfield's mocap actor) for the breakthrough. "Reuben kept bringing me in to audition for video game franchises," Faunt reveals. His college background in theater proved crucial when he finally booked Resident Evil 6. This transition from stunt work to performance capture demonstrates Faunt's unique career evolution within the gaming industry.

Motion Capture Transformation

The shift to Faunt's portrayal brought noticeable changes to Leon's movement. "You can see the difference in transition when you had taken over the part," the podcast hosts observed, praising how "the choreography and stunts came together to be really fluid and clean." Faunt's physicality introduced a new dimension to Leon's combat readiness that fans immediately recognized.

Behind the Scenes of Resident Evil

Authentic Motion Capture Process

Faunt describes mocap as intensely imaginative work. For Vendetta's motorcycle chase scene, actors sat on wooden blocks while crew members physically tilted them. "You have to make believe you're being chased by those huge dogs," Faunt explains, emphasizing how performers must mentally create terrifying scenarios in the sterile "void" space. The most rewarding moment came at wrap when actors finally saw their digital selves: "We could look at these huge monitors... I could do the worm on the ground and see Leon doing it."

Memorable Off-Set Moments

The Tokyo filming created lasting bonds. Faunt recalls a producer-hosted boat cruise under Tokyo Bridge with "all this sushi and pool" and legendary karaoke nights. "Fifteen of us went to Japanese karaoke in a private throne room," he shares, contrasting it with typical American karaoke bars. The team also visited a famous robot bar, a must-see Tokyo experience with celebrity walls that showcased Japan's unique entertainment culture.

Key Collaborations

Working with Erin Cahill (Rebecca Chambers) felt natural. "Aaron's been like my little sister," says Faunt, who recommended her for Vendetta. Their Power Rangers history created instant chemistry during mocap sessions. The hallway fight scene with Reuben Langdon particularly stood out: "Anytime Ruben and I are together... it's always a big moment. We always look forward to doing a scene together."

Motion Capture Insights

Creative Limitations

Despite their stunt backgrounds, Faunt and Langdon had limited input on fight choreography. "Capcom do what they want to do... everything was pretty well laid out," Faunt notes, though he acknowledges directors welcomed minor suggestions. This reveals Capcom's meticulous control over their flagship franchise's action sequences.

Technical Evolution

Faunt recognizes the industry's shift toward full performance capture seen in RE7. "They've scanned everything—face, body, movements," he observes, noting the challenge this presents for legacy characters like Leon. When asked about RE2 Remake, Faunt responds carefully: "I have a really good relationship with Capcom... I'd be shocked if it wasn't me." His immediate text to producers after learning about the remake hints at ongoing conversations.

Future Projects and Legacy

Upcoming Appearances

Faunt recently filmed the TV series "ELE" (Extinction Level Event) in Ottawa and has a movie called "Anybody" premiering this year. He also teases "coming back on a show that everybody knows," sparking speculation among fans. Follow his verified social media (@jasonfaunt) for tour dates and project announcements.

Preserving Leon's Essence

Fans specifically praise Faunt's contribution to Leon's physical identity. "You've brought this element... posture-wise, the mechanics of how you walk," the hosts note. Faunt's performance established Leon's signature confidence through subtle body language that became character-defining. When discussing potential recasting, Faunt remains hopeful: "Resident Evil has been a wonderful experience... hopefully I keep staying part of the franchise."

Actionable Takeaways for Aspiring Performers

1. Build industry relationships like Faunt's Power Rangers network that led to RE opportunities
2. Develop physical storytelling skills - mocap demands exaggerated yet precise movement
3. Specialize in niche skills - stunt or theater backgrounds provide distinct advantages
4. Maintain franchise knowledge - understand character history even for non-speaking roles
5. Cultivate professional flexibility - adapt from live-action to performance capture techniques

Which Leon Kennedy moment would you most want to see Jason Faunt recreate? Share your choice in the comments below - we'll feature the top requests in our next mocap analysis!