Jessica Lee Gagné takes the helm as director for the seventh episode of Severance Season 2, marking her first time stepping out from behind the camera as the series’ director of photography. Titled "Chikhai Bardo," the episode delves deep not only within the psychological confines of director Ben Stiller's ambitious Apple TV+ series but also explores the intricacies of emotional connections between characters, particularly the bond between Mark (Adam Scott) and his wife Gemma (Dichen Lachman).
Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to flashbacks showcasing the couple's early relationship, including their fertility struggles and the haunting atmosphere of their previous lives—they share meaningful moments only to be contrasted with the dark realities of Gemma's captivity within Lumon.
Initially hesitant to direct, Gagné said, "I had gone through a very crazy personal experience... I realized I had been playing safe for many things in my life," reflecting on her decision to embrace the challenges of both directing and storytelling. Her connection to the episode's themes, particularly around vulnerability and the desire to expand oneself, became pivotal to her creative process.
An innovative technique used by Gagné involved shooting these flashbacks on film, which she believed would impart authenticity and evoke nostalgia. "I’m not the type of person who pushes to shoot on film to just shoot on film. I love the medium and I think it’s a privilege to work with it," she shared during her discussion with Collider. By utilizing these methods, Gagné aimed to create warmth and natural nostalgia within the viewer, distinguishing the past from the sterile environment of Lumon.
The selection of filming locations added to the episode's emotional grip. Unbeknownst to her at first, the house where significant scenes occurred was also her residence during the production, allowing for spontaneous time-lapse shots to depict the passage of time. Gagné noted, "I lived in the house, and I needed to shoot things... I actually left the camera there... I could do [time-lapses] because I lived there."
Exploring the process of directing as well as functioning as cinematographer simultaneously, Gagné described the surreal experience of flipping between roles. "It was difficult when we were shooting synergies; I felt everything moving quickly, and I realized it was because I wasn’t having conversations with someone else,” she recollected, highlighting her reliance on collaborative discussions, particularly with script supervisor Sam Evoy, who effectively became her sounding board.
Through the character of Gemma, Gagné aimed to present multifaceted aspects of her personality, using the narrative arc to explore the depths of grief experienced through kindness, manipulation, and hope. "We really worked hard with Dichen to develop this very nuanced character... she has to play the game and not abandon hope,” Gagné observed.
The emotional stakes were high, with challenges woven throughout both Mark’s and Gemma’s experiences. Gagné described her approach to visual storytelling, focusing on creating moments where the characters connected emotionally, alluding to the uncommon structure of their relationship: "It’s not just... perfect. That would have been easier for him to grieve."
With the intercutting of various timelines and circumstances—both present and reflective of past romances—the episode ascends to moments of crushing realization and connection. Adam Scott praised Gagné’s impact on the show’s atmosphere, saying, "Everything culturally about the show Severance changed when we made this episode, all the way down to the noise the cameras made was completely different."
This episode, rich with visual language and metaphorical storytelling, stands out as a highlight of the series, combining the mysterious elements of consciousness and memory with the intimate themes of love and loss. Gagné’s brave transition to directing shines through, showcasing her thoughtful craftsmanship and unique perspective as they echo the larger narrative of Severance.
All episodes of Severance Season 2 are available for viewing on Apple TV+, with new episodes premiering every Friday.