Unpacking the Surreal Intro of 'Severance'

In creating the title sequence for the Apple TV+ show 'Severance', I aimed to craft a surreal and mystical journey that would transport viewers into the world of the main character, Mark. Played by Adam Scott, Mark navigates his life, torn between professional and personal struggles. The goal was to represent these themes in a way that was both thought-provoking and visually stunning.

To achieve this, I started by breaking down the main themes of the show and creating mood boards to represent them properly. After reading the script multiple times, I found plenty of material to work from. Since no visual references were provided initially, I had to start my research from scratch. The script, which spans 50 pages, offered a rich source of inspiration.

In our conversation, Ben Stiller and his team didn't have any specific treatment at first. As I learned more about the show's narrative and themes, including work/life struggles, one idea or vision motivated me the most: to create a sense of disorientation and discomfort in the viewer. This would allow them to connect with Mark's struggle and immerse themselves in his world.

The 3D title sequence for 'Severance' is a testament to the power of motion graphics as a storytelling medium. As the creator, I'm proud to share my thoughts on the project and how it seeks to challenge viewers' perceptions. The animated intro will be showcased at SIGGRAPH 2022, premiering on August 8th with subsequent screenings and virtual access.

In this article, we'll delve deeper into the creative process behind the title sequence, exploring how I aimed to capture the essence of Mark's journey through surrealism and subtle ironic humor. Join us as we unpack the themes and visual elements that make this title sequence a triumph of 3D motion design and animation.

Title sequence in script