(Cover) - EN Movies - Mark Strong says Green Lantern needed special effects to keep it relevant to today's comic book movies.

The 47-year-old British actor stars as villain Sinestro in Green Lantern opposite Ryan Reynolds. The movie is based on the DC comic book character of the same name. The film stars Ryan as Hal Jordan, a test pilot for the US Air Force who becomes the first earthman to be inducted into the intergalactic Green Lantern Corps.

The Martin Campbelldirected movie is set in another world, and Mark says the film needed thrilling special effects to keep the audience's attention.

"The technology has caught up with the vision. Superman and Spiderman are more popular because they are earth-bound. Green Lantern needed technology to make it efficient," he explained in an interview with BBC Breakfast.

Despite acknowledging the popularity of comic book superheroes, Mark maintains that Green Lantern is his favourite story. The star says the moral of the film is a powerful one.

"I have to say Green Lantern [is my favourite comic book movie]. And I'm not just saying that! It's amazing. I've got into the mythology of it. It's a coming of age story. Bear in mind the comics were written after the war. People needed a hero. It's about defeating the enemy," he said.

Mark admits he struggled sometimes with the lack of "real" props and scenery. The star has recalled being on set and performing with invisible actors.

"We wore these skin tight grey all in ones with black dots all over them. So you're not running into a phone box and changing into Lycra. However, you are on set wearing skin tight outfits!" he laughed. "I stood on a big green box addressing the crew who were wearing baseball caps and chewing gum. There's nothing there. There's this one scene where I'm talking to the Guardians and I'm talking to tennis balls on sticks!"

Mark says the look for his villainous character was inspired by British actor and novelist David Niven. The actor insists he wanted to deliver an accurate account of his comic book character for all of the dedicated fans.

"This look is based on David Niven the moustache and the widow's peak. In the comics [Sinestro] is strong and powerful, no gag, no smarm. They're a group of people who love this stuff. I felt a great responsibility to deliver what was in the comics," he revealed. (C) Cover Media