The universe of "Severance" may appear familiar to ours, yet upon closer inspection of its technological aspects, it reveals distinct differences. builds up additional complexity around the main enigma of the series The clearest illustration of this can be seen in the computers utilized by the MDR group stationed on the isolated level within Lumon Industries. These machines exude a retro-futurist aesthetic rather than one indicative of a bleak future. At first glance, this may seem incongruous since Lumon has developed an ethically questionable yet widely debated process known as 'severance,' showcasing significant advancements made by their society technologically. However, despite handling such cryptic and crucial tasks, these computers lack modernity; instead, they possess a vintage flair, appearing somewhat bizarre with their hefty trackballs paired alongside keyboards featuring two distinct colors. The storytelling explores themes of corporate dominance and manipulation (with partial inspiration from "The Stanley Parable"). can be gleaned solely from these designs, as these keyboards feature every button except CTRL and ESC.
In another striking instance of advanced tech observed at Lumon, there’s what appears to be a psychological torment apparatus within the Break Room. Initially, this contraption seems harmless or unthreatening. However, upon entry, employees find themselves in a narrow, lengthy corridor that induces feelings of unease and confinement. Following this, they encounter a straightforward yet chilling arrangement: a sparsely illuminated table reminiscent of an interrogation room, complete with a clear projection screen showing repetitive phrases meant to be recited continuously. While no complex instruments or machinery designed to inflict physical pain are employed here, the system employs devious mental tactics aimed at breaking down even those with strong wills. As before, a deceptive feeling of safety is established only to lead into a technology configuration that summons warped reminiscence and foreboding minimalism .
However, this technological dissonance exists even outside Lumon, where each character is depicted driving vehicles that could solely be described as vintage and nostalgic. Series creator Dan Erickson provided insights into this significant aspect of world-building, so let’s delve into it.
Read more: The 8 Top Episodes of Columbo, Ranked
Severance intentionally employs outdated technology to create an atmosphere of confusion and ambiguity.
In an interview with BuzzFeed , Erickson explained why the presence of old tech in the show is intentional, to the point that Lumon's influence over its staff quietly spills into their external lives. To begin with, the retrofuturistic technology serves primarily as an aesthetic element with its appealing look; however, the vintage computers placed on the lower level mainly function to disorient disconnected employees, unsettling their perception of both time and space.
What I will mention is that despite whatever additional layers might be present, it certainly appears quite impressive. It often feels as though one has stepped slightly off the conventional timeline and spatial coordinates. This sensation begins with the isolated ground level since below this point, all technologies are deliberately archaic—partly due to avoiding devices like cellular phones or internet transmitters which wouldn’t function properly underground. Additionally, there’s a desire to detach employees from their connection to everyday life; thus, making sure they aren’t fully aware of current times or specific locations beyond their immediate environment. Consequently, our aim was to carry over such uncertainty into how viewers perceive things externally.
As old tech renders WiFi and Bluetooth unusable for connecting with the external world, it also distorts an inner person’s understanding of their own reality. The influence of this manipulation extends further, with Lumon's presence casting a long shadow across the town, symbolizing the secretive monitoring practices companies use to manage their staff. This grip on societal norms and employee lifestyles becomes evident through the vehicles driven by these individuals, like Harmony Cobel's (Patricia Arquette) 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit and Mark Scout's (Adam Scott) 1997 Volvo 960.
Furthermore, Lumon's damaging impact stretches well beyond its office spaces; it infiltrates its birth pods, corporation-run industrial communities, and can be felt even as you converse with your neighbor, who you think Lacking hidden agendas, as Erickson describes, it presents "a somewhat twisted rendition of our reality," where concepts like time, space, and technological advancement are deliberately distorted to align with the capricious desires of a malevolent megacorp.
The initial pair of seasons for "Severance" can be streamed on Apple TV+.
If you're looking for the easiest way to keep up with all the major movie and TV news, why not sign up to our free newsletter ?
Read the original article on SlashFilm .
0 Response to "Why Everyone In Severance Drives Old Cars, According To The Show's Creator"
Post a Comment