STRANGER THINGS PRODUCTION
WE HAVE DONE STRANGER THINGS to the fullest ”
swapping in the Sony FX6 or the RED KOMODO. He also leant on Motion Impossible’s AGITO for tracking at high speeds, Scorpio cranes for bird’s-eye shots and bespoke flashlights, as much of Stranger Things 5 occurs overnight. There’s also a flashback, intercut into episode 4’s massive action scene, featuring a Super 8 film of young Will, Mike, Jonathan and Joyce. “It was a combination of real 8mm footage and a KOMODO for shots that might need some VFX work,” says Heymann. “We wanted it to have this raw authenticity and a different look from everything else that was happening in the MAC-Z. It was
one of those moments where you read it in the script and you’re like, ‘Oh my god, I can’t wait.’” SMALL WORLD AFTER ALL Stranger Things ’ universality comes in part from its ensemble cast; there’s a favourite character for everyone, no matter their age or identity. But working with that large a group – particularly of young people – presents some logistical headaches. “We tried to shoot in story order, but there were a lot of factors that forced us to shoot five or six episodes in the same week,” Heymann shares, including continuity considerations and cast availability. “If there are 13 people in a scene and one of them is sick, you’re thrown a curveball.” While Heymann felt an added pressure to deliver (“you know that over 100 million people are going to be watching,” he says), this also drove him to do his best work on the show. “It helps you get out of bed every morning. Knowing that so many people out there, including every person who works on the show, loves it and is anticipating it – it’s definitely extremely motivating. The Duffers set the tone by being passionate and caring so much about the details, not only of the world but also of the characters. It’s a balance of the epic and the intimate. “We’re fortunate to have an incredible cast that brings these characters to life,” he continues, “and it’s such a joy to photograph them. I love the rare occasion when we have a relatively simple domestic scene – it’s a nice treat.” For Heymann, Season 5 “was about finding balance. People will remember the characters and relationships and friendships. Worldbuilding aside, that’s the most important thing.” Watch the final season of Stranger Things on Netflix
LIKE HELL Boundaries were pushed in camera, like the red lighting effect in the Upside Down
11
DEFINITIONMAGS
Powered by FlippingBook