Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1316563
SERAC + HIS VILLAINOUS DELIGHTS For the new character Serac, the mysterious mastermind of world control, the La Fbrica location in Barcelona really set the bar high for this very individualistic man and his world. Set Designer David Moreau processed the location elements of this converted cement factory and shaped them into Serac's underground tech labs. David also developed the design for his jet, the main feature of which was an uninterrupted band of windows. Set Designer Ernie Avila took on Serac's experimental, sleek, white laboratories for re-education of societal outliers that was built on location. What makes all these sets work, however, is set decorator Julie Ochipinti's approach to character. Inspired by some of the personal elements in Ricardo Bofill's residence, she infused the set with the uality of a worldly and educated connoisseur of design. Using elements of modernist icons and sculptural furnishing, she added a whole layer of backstory. She even applied this to his private jet, which she posited was most likely where he spent most of his time and should thus feel like a living space. This is typical of Julie's work, as she always informs the work through the details. The soul and scale of the show really comes from the writing—so many worlds to develop in just one show! That, as well as the exceptional team of filmmakers that make up the entire Westworld crew, continues to draw me in. This show only works because of the team and what each individual brings to the table, especially when it comes to the Art Department. Everyone was encouraged to contribute their individual ideas and solutions to get the work accomplished. The scale and speed of the work demands this, but as a group, we also really valued being able to find fun in it all. Art coordinator Jen Clack insisted on Friday-evening themed parties, complete with costumes. Jen was completely right in doing so as the weeks went on, it became more important to celebrate and acknowledge everyone's efforts and importance in making the show. ADG A. THE INTERIOR OF SERAC'S COMPOUND. SHOT ON LOCATION AT BOFILL'S LA FÁBRICA IN SPAIN. PRODUCTION STILL. B. SERAC'S JET. PRODUCTION STILL. C. THE INTERIOR OF SERAC'S JET, SHOT ON STAGE AT LOS ANGELES CENTER STUDIOS. PRODUCTION STILL. D. SERAC'S OFFICE AT THE HESTIA LABS, INSTALLED AND DRESSED ON LOCATION IN SUN VALLEY. PRODUCTION STILL. E. THE SOLOMON LOWER LEVEL, BUILT ON LOCATION AT THE PARKING GARAGE OF THE LOS ANGELES CONVENTION CENTER, SHOWING FINAL VFX AUGMENTATION. PRODUCTION STILL. A HBO