Seth Rogen’s satirical cringe-comedy series, The Studio, is garnering attention as one of the standout ongoing series on Apple TV+, receiving positive feedback from both critics and audiences alike. The show offers a unique glimpse behind the scenes of the entertainment industry, drawing from Rogen and Evan Goldberg’s experiences at Sony Pictures. Fans have noted that the series’ cameos enhance its realism, adding depth to the narrative.
Recently, Rogen and co-star Ike Barinholtz appeared on the morning show Today to discuss their roles and the premise of The Studio, which follows the character Matt Remick as he navigates the challenges of saving the fictional Continental Studios amid rapid changes in the entertainment landscape. When asked if it was nerve-wracking to create a show about studio executives, Rogen candidly replied, "I enjoyed the process a lot. I think it was nerve-wracking for them [studio executives] because they knew we were going to, comically, incorporate their darkest secrets into our show."
The insights gained from conversations with studio executives before the show’s creation proved invaluable, according to Rogen. He emphasized the conflict these executives face, being pulled in various directions that often contradict their passion for filmmaking. Barinholtz chimed in, noting that when Rogen first pitched the show to him, he had high expectations, which were met upon reading the script. "Now that the show is out, I can proudly say it is great," he said.
During the interview, the hosts playfully asked Rogen and Barinholtz how the series concludes, to which they humorously responded, "I can’t spoil it. Apple will have me deprogrammed. We all run away from the severed floor." This clever nod to another popular Apple TV+ show, Severance, intrigued fans, as the "severed floor" refers to a section of the Lumon Branch 501 building where employees who have undergone the severance procedure work.
As fans eagerly await the series finale on May 21, 2025, the idea of a crossover between The Studio and Severance has sparked speculation about how the two narratives might intertwine, potentially enhancing the impact of the show’s conclusion.
Rogen also shared the reactions of studio executives during a recent screening of The Studio at the Museum of Modern Art, hosted by Variety. He noted that he has received feedback from nearly every head of major studios, many of whom expressed that while they found the show "great," it was also "very traumatic to watch." Rogen reflected on the bittersweet nature of the industry he loves, stating, "It’s genuinely an industry we love, adding that the show is written from the perspective of people who cannot deny that their dreams have come true because of the industry in many ways. But at the same time, it’s frustrating and aggravating, as the people are bound to make choices that are confounding and contrary to their own love for film."
Further, Rogen recounted a telling moment from his early career when a Hollywood executive remarked that he entered the film industry out of love for movies, yet felt his job was to ruin them. This sentiment resonates throughout The Studio, where characters grapple with the complexities of their roles in an industry that often feels at odds with their creative passions.
Chase Sui Wonders, who plays Quinn Hackett in The Studio, also shared her experiences during the audition process. In a recent interview with W Magazine, she recalled her callback with Rogen, saying, "As soon as I got the audition in my inbox, I read it, and then I read it again like, 'Really? This is insane.' I did the callback with Seth, and he said, 'Let's toss the script and just riff.'" This improvisational approach highlights the collaborative nature of the show, which blends scripted material with spontaneous creativity.
The dynamic between Rogen and Barinholtz, as well as the chemistry among the cast, has been a focal point of discussion. The show’s ability to balance humor with poignant commentary on the entertainment industry allows it to resonate with a wide audience, from casual viewers to industry insiders.
As The Studio continues to unfold, it raises questions about the future of filmmaking and the pressures faced by those behind the scenes. Fans are left wondering how the series will conclude and whether the characters will find resolution amidst the chaos of their industry.
With its clever writing and engaging performances, The Studio stands out as a significant addition to Apple TV+’s lineup, appealing to anyone interested in the intricacies of Hollywood. As the finale approaches, viewers are left to ponder the implications of the show’s themes and the potential for further explorations of the entertainment world.
In a landscape where streaming services continue to dominate, The Studio offers a fresh perspective, blending satire with genuine insight. Whether it’s the comedic twists or the underlying truths about the film industry, Rogen and his team have crafted a series that not only entertains but also provokes thought about the realities of filmmaking.
As fans eagerly await the final episodes, the anticipation builds around what revelations and surprises the show might still hold. With Rogen’s unique vision and the talented ensemble cast, The Studio promises to deliver a conclusion that will leave viewers talking long after the credits roll.
