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Later this month, the live-action American remake of Ghost in the Shell hits theaters, with Scarlett Johansson portraying the Major. Fans of the original Ghost in the Shell manga and anime are already familiar with the Thermoptic suit that the Major uses throughout the story, but the costume has been a major part of the promotional push for the movie. Now that we’ve gotten a better look at the suit, it’s even more impressive to learn that it is a practical effect and not a CGI costume.

During a recent episode of Tested, Adam Savage visited Weta to get the scoop on how they created the Thermoptic suit for Ghost in the Shell. To better illustrate how the costume fits on a person, Tested contributor Danica Chan bravely wore the costume while Weta costume technician Flo Foxworthy explained how the suit was created out of silicon, and it may be the first time that anyone has created a full hero suit from that material.

“The silicon just has an amazing texture and finish and stretch that you just don’t from foam latex or from any fabric,” said Foxworthy. “It’s really otherworldly and quite technologically advanced in appearance. And we can get these incredible details right into the costume. We would never have been able to do this with any other material.”

Foxworthy also pointed out the different types of silicon that were used in the costume, as well as the way that magnets hold parts of the costume together. The downside of silicon is that it can take on an imprint far too easily, which is why the costume has to be stored on a form fitting mannequin to keep its intended shape. It’s a magnificent creation, and we’re eager to see it in action when Ghost in the Shell is released on March 31.

What do you think about this behind-the-scenes look at the Thermoptic suit? Let’s discuss in the comment section below!

Image: Paramount Pictures