Behind the Scenes: Crafting a Unique World of Unlikely Robots in ‘The Electric State’
Experience a unique cinematic adventure with the new Netflix movie, The Electric State, which presents a fascinating alternate reality filled with robots. Directed by the acclaimed Russo brothers, known for their work on blockbuster hits like Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame, this film explores a world where sentient robots have a complex history with humanity.
Overview of The Electric State
Set in a reimagined version of the 1990s, The Electric State reveals a dystopian society where robots, once created to serve humans, have faced rebellion and subsequent exile. With a hefty production budget of $320 million, the film stars Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt as they navigate a treacherous journey into a Southwest territory dominated by these unique robots.
Robot Design and Visual Effects
One of the key aspects of The Electric State is its innovative robot design. Visual effects supervisor Matthew E. Butler emphasizes that the robots in this film are intentionally designed to contrast with modern-day robotics. Unlike the sleek and functional designs of companies like Boston Dynamics, the film’s robots feature quirky characteristics.
Characteristics of the Robots
- The robot named Cosmo features a disproportionately large head on a small neck, which Butler describes as an unusual design choice.
- Inspired by Simon Stålenhag’s illustrated novel, the robots are intended to appear “unthreatening” and “goofy,” making them approachable characters in the film.
Creating Believable Robots
To bring these unique robots to life, Butler’s team faced the challenge of transforming impractical designs into believable characters. The design process involved:
- Maintaining the essence of Cosmo’s silhouette while ensuring the robots appeared physically realistic.
- Incorporating visible mechanical elements, such as motors and circuitry, to enhance realism during close-ups.
- Developing hundreds of unique robots that each functioned as individual characters within the narrative.
Motion Capture Technology
To animate the robots authentically, Butler’s team combined traditional optical motion capture with cutting-edge accelerometer-based suits. This approach allowed seven motion capture performers to interact with live-action actors, ensuring that the animated robots felt organic and responsive. The process included:
- Adapting the performers’ movements to fit the physical limitations of each robot design.
- Collaborating with directors to incorporate specific character traits and vocal nuances.
Conclusion
The creation of the robots in The Electric State is a testament to the collaborative effort of artists and performers, showcasing the intricate process involved in bringing these characters to life. As audiences immerse themselves in this visually stunning world, they will find themselves captivated by the interplay between humans and robots, as well as the innovative design choices that define this film.
For more insights into the making of The Electric State, visit Netflix’s official site or check out the film’s IMDB page.
