What Ratatouille’s antagonist looks like in real-life has been revealed in a TikTok video. The 2007 animated film from Disney and Pixar found considerable success upon its release, particularly in France, where the story of a rat's journey into the world of restaurant cuisine is set. Nominated for several Oscars and winning the trophy for best animated feature, Ratatouille didn’t have the same impact as more recent Disney efforts, failing to even crack the top five highest-earning Pixar films. Yet the story of lowly garbage boy Alfredo Linguini (Lou Romano), who works at famed Parisian restaurant Gusteau’s still managed to find receptive audiences around the world. They were especially charmed by a very special rat called Remy (Patton Oswalt).
In some ways, Ratatouille is part of an era of Disney filmmaking that no longer exists – a critically acclaimed film with worldwide recognition and accolades to match, yet which failed to hit the billion dollar mark at the global box-office. Today it seems even Disney films with middling reviews manage to reach a billion dollars. Nonetheless, Ratatouille has made its mark on pop culture and remains a favorite of many.
As with many films, the most troublesome characters are often the most memorable ones. Voiced by the late Peter O'Toole, one of Ratatouille’s key antagonists is the ultra-fussy restaurant critic Anton Ego, who wants nothing more than to experience culinary excellence at all costs. The character is animated to perfection, arguably ranking as one of Disney’s all-time most memorable antagonists. Fans may have wondered what a live-action version of Ego might look like, but TikTok user Joe Mele has them covered. Thanks to the willingness of his father, Mele was able to transform him into the famed character. You can check out the full hilarious transformation (via First We Feast) below:
It must be said – the resemblance is uncanny. In fact, once studios resume their post-coronavirus regular work schedule, Mele’s father will likely have secured the vote of many Ratatouille fans to play Ego, should a live-action Ratatouille ever be made. Perhaps the most amusing thing about this video is how Mele’s father seems unwilling to go along with the transformation, but ultimately gives in. This behavior is a lot like Ego's. So far, there hasn't been any significant discussion surrounding the possibility of turning Ratatouille into a live-action film, but as with all things in Hollywood, one can never completely discount a project’s potential.
It's unlikely Mele’s father would be cast as Ego if Disney were to make a live-action Ratatouille. However, it does make Ratatouille fans think about the possibility of a live-action adaptation. What’s more, it has the ability to kick start numerous discussions regarding who would be perfect to play Ego, should Disney ever make the decision to bring this animated hit to life once more.
Source: Joe Mele (via First We Feast)