Alan Cumming’s return to the role of Nightcrawler in Avengers: Doomsday is generating quite a buzz, especially with the major advancements in film makeup technology. After over two decades since his first appearance as the blue-skinned mutant in X2: X-Men United (2003), Cumming is impressed by how much faster and more efficient the process has become. Previously, it would take about four and a half hours to apply his makeup, but now it only takes 90 minutes, thanks to pre-made tattoos that can be directly applied to his face. This technological leap is definitely a game-changer for actors who undergo extensive makeup transformations.
Cumming also expressed how great it feels to return to the superhero role, even as a 60-year-old, and he’s excited to share the screen with some of his X-Men co-stars like Patrick Stewart and Ian McKellen. The upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, set for release on May 1, 2026, will bring back several familiar faces from the X-Men franchise in a new Marvel project, blending nostalgia with fresh, cutting-edge technology. Fans are undoubtedly looking forward to seeing Cumming in action again as Nightcrawler, especially with the improved makeup process that promises a quicker transformation without compromising on detail.