Mimic and the Poser talk manager (don't forget that little gem, it "works" to rough you in) can't capture an actor's nuance. It can insert some head movement, yes, but based on a static methodology in reaction to empahsis in the audio.

An actor takes the dialog and imparts a unique expressive stream of action. That's the difference.

It certainly would be fine to not have to use face markers, because without them you are into a disarmed ad hoc mode, eliminating the 'staged' issues. I don't know if Image Metrics is a product at all. "University types" are involved and they have less drive to go to market, has been my experience. However, if and when they do, they bring some hefty power to the product on occasion.

Not that there's anything wrong with the Mimic-style approach for getting roughed in.

The other option is.....pure hand key of facial expression and lip sync. That sets you free to make the character do -- and say -- anything you want!

On full body motion capture short of a $20,000 Gypsy.....

.... how about 'aided rotoscope'?

shoot your video with two cheap cams at right angles. Use PhilC's little device to throw the vids onto two panels in the Poser viewport, from which you just move your model to fit over the video.