In the vibrant tapestry of “Thor: Ragnarok,” the costumes stand out as marvels of modern technology, thanks to the pioneering efforts of Wētā Workshop. This Wellington-based powerhouse collaborated closely with the film’s renowned costume designer, Mayes Rubeo, to infuse the armor and weaponry with a Jack Kirby-inspired palette that’s both bold and bright​​.

For the Grandmaster’s elite guard, Wētā Workshop crafted sixteen suits, each a kaleidoscope of cyber-futuristic splendor in yellow, red, green, and purple, delivering a visual feast that matched Taika Waititi’s vivid comic book vision​​.

The main attraction, Thor’s gladiator helmet, boasts wing cheek guards that animate with a life of their own. This, along with a mammoth Hulk helmet, exemplifies Wētā’s 3D printing prowess, creating pieces of a scale and detail that traditional methods could scarcely dream of​​.

Even New Zealand’s own Karl Urban, who portrayed Skurge, was fitted for a bespoke suit of blue armor, showcasing a beaten metal finish and underlying muscle structure, all testament to Wētā’s commitment to craftsmanship and detail​​.

“Thor: Ragnarok” wasn’t just a blockbuster hit; it was a showcase of how 3D printing is revolutionizing costume design, allowing artisans to dream bigger and bolder — a true testament to the limitless potential of additive manufacturing in the cinematic arts.