Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1542693
paying close attention to their merchandizing and inventory practices. Filling the store with merchandize was a sprawling, never-ending mission, headed by set decorator Kendall Anderson. First, we researched the 2003/2004 Toys "R" Us catalogue, and built a detailed spreadsheet of actual products that were on the shelves at the time. Then, we set out to purchase whatever items were still available, either in newer similar editions, or as vintage items online. We were especially interested in packaged items, which we could scan and recreate. We had a packaging factory going in the Art Department: Graphic Designers Andrea Johnson Tejada and Jason Sweers were scanning, redesigning and printing hundreds of period boxes, from board games to video game covers. In addition, they created countless generic toy boxes and brands, which we blended into the set for volume and density. Graphics also played a huge part in enforcing the store's brand identity, from large signs all the way to price stickers. Since big-box stores are very focused on their branding, we had to learn so much about merchandizing, and made constant trips to local chain stores for research. Instead of printing graphics through a film vendor, we decided to collaborate with a local packaging company to ensure the substrates and formats we used were industry-standard. Though enthusiastic about this unusual challenge, the company was unaccustomed to film deadlines, which meant we often received orders in the last minute… I remember us all frantically putting price stickers on items as the crew was setting up the first shot. Although graphics were crucial for the store's appearance, we knew that the only way to solidify its authenticity was to display prized, iconic period toys. Set decoration assistant Jessica Segal and buyer Summer Eubanks hit secondhand stores and local toy collectors to uncover discarded treasures. We searched nationwide and online for items such as Barbie dolls and franchise action figures. We also stocked up on classic toys and games that never go out of style. As our deadline approached, the task of filling the store became more urgent. Trucks were unloading merchandize daily, but the space was so vast that it sometimes felt like a Sisyphean effort. Set decoration assistants Morgan Smith and Alex Martinez helped keep track of the monumental inventory list, as more and more toys arrived. The challenge was further complicated by seasonal merchandize changes: The store's timeline unfolded over six months, which included summer, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas. It was a constant puzzle of dressing and redressing shelves to fit the correct season. On-set dresser Alex Richards proved essential in maintaining continuity and calm amidst set turnover madness. One of the most prominent sets within the store was Jeff's hideout. In keeping with Derek's method of engaging his actors, he asked us to collaborate with Channing Tatum on dressing D. FINISHED TOYS "R" US SET. DECORATED FOR CHRISTMAS. SET PHOTO E. TOYS "R" US GAME AISLE. SET PHOTO. F. FINISHED TOYS "R" US SET. SET PHOTO. PHOTOS BY DAVI RUSSO D E F