The Severance Podcast with Ben Stiller & Adam Scott
Episode: S1E1: Good News About Hell
Release Date: January 7, 2025
Introduction
In the inaugural episode of The Severance Podcast, hosts Ben Stiller and Adam Scott delve deep into the pilot episode of the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning TV show Severance. Titled "Good News About Hell," this episode-by-episode breakdown offers listeners an insider's perspective, featuring conversations with the show's creator Dan Erickson, executive producer Jackie Cohn, and guest appearances from cast members and celebrity superfans.
Origins and Development of Severance
The podcast kicks off with Ben and Adam reflecting on their long-term collaboration and the journey of bringing Severance to life. They reminisce about the initial stages, highlighting how the project has been a significant part of their lives since around 2016-2017.
Notable Quote:
Ben Stiller [01:23]: "It's been a long time. It's been a sizable chunk of our lives."
Ben and Adam discuss the early script development with Dan Erickson and Jackie Cohn, emphasizing the evolution from a more whimsical and fantastical version to the grounded, emotionally resonant narrative found in the pilot. They recount the first meeting with Erickson, describing it as reminiscent of a scene from Silence of the Lambs, but quickly transitioning into a collaborative and creative partnership.
Notable Quote:
Dan Erickson [18:52]: "Every day I have the thought of, 'Okay, if this is as far as it goes, that's already really cool.'"
Revisiting the Pilot: "Good News About Hell"
Ben and Adam provide a comprehensive analysis of the pilot episode, breaking down key scenes, character introductions, and thematic elements. They explore the show's unique premise—where employees undergo a controversial procedure to sever their work and personal lives, leading to profound psychological and emotional implications.
Key Discussions:
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Opening Scene: The claustrophobic conference room where Helly Rivera (Britt Lower) awakens to a disembodied voice questioning her identity. The hosts discuss the visual and emotional impact of this scene, emphasizing its role in establishing the show's unsettling atmosphere.
Notable Quote:
Ben Stiller [27:24]: "It's the theme of the show. Are you ready for Mr. Scout?"
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Character Dynamics: Introduction of main characters like Mark Scout (Adam Scott), Dylan (Zach Cherry), and Irving (John Turturro). The interplay between Mark and his coworkers sets the tone for the show's exploration of work-life balance and personal identity.
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Severance Procedure: The ethical and moral dilemmas presented by the severance procedure are examined, highlighting how the show uses this concept to delve into deeper psychological themes.
Notable Quote:
Dan Erickson [29:05]: "The idea is like, if she knew the answer to any of the other questions, that would mean too much had gotten through."
Key Scenes and Their Significance
1. The Elevator Transition: Ben explains the creative decision behind the elevator scene, where Mark transitions from his "Innie" (work self) to his "Outie" (personal self). They discuss the technical aspects, such as the use of a Zollie (dolly-zoom) effect to visually represent the disassociation caused by the severance procedure.
Notable Quote:
Ben Stiller [38:00]: "It's the first time we hear the theme of the show. Are you ready for Mr. Scout?"
2. The Long Walk in the Hallway: Adam shares anecdotes about filming the seemingly endless hallway walk, a metaphor for Mark's transition between his severed selves. They highlight the challenges and humor involved in filming such a long shot.
Notable Quote:
Ben Stiller [40:12]: "We did about 12 to 13 takes per Zollie to get one right."
3. Mark's Home Life: The hosts discuss the contrast between Mark's sterile work environment and his drab personal life. The introduction of his sister, Devin (played by Jen Tulloch), adds depth to his character, showcasing his loneliness and the impact of severance on his relationships.
Notable Quote:
Adam Scott [55:12]: "All of them are sneaking onto the kitchen to sneak food."
4. The VIP Section at Pips: A scene that juxtaposes the mundane with the bizarre, where Mark receives a gift card from Pips, a nostalgic nod from Ben to his childhood experiences.
Notable Quote:
Ben Stiller [52:27]: "It's a funny relationship with Ms. Cobell, but also just something's off and weird with her."
Insights and Reflections from Creators and Cast
Throughout the episode, Ben and Adam engage with Dan Erickson and Jackie Cohn, uncovering behind-the-scenes stories and creative decisions that shaped the pilot. They discuss:
- Script Evolution: The transition from a comedic, magical realism approach to a more nuanced, emotionally driven narrative.
- Character Development: The importance of portraying the duality of characters' severed selves and their struggle with identity.
- Production Challenges: Navigating the complexities of filming during the COVID-19 lockdown, adapting to remote preparations, and the technological innovations used to bring the show's vision to life.
Notable Quote:
Dan Erickson [14:47]: "We had to go to 11 first. And then like, okay, let's retain that same spirit and that same kind of soul, but take it to a more sort of recognizable human place."
Notable Quotes
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Ben Stiller [02:52]: "We were in this bubble, sort of literally and figuratively with the show. And nobody really knew what we were doing and had any sort of opinion on it."
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Adam Scott [10:00]: "This scene really accomplishes a lot in terms of just orienting the audience to what this world is and also feeling how Audi. Mark's sense of isolation, too."
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Dan Erickson [23:01]: "Each have a card we're all looking at right now. I bought a little, like, lancing needle that you get to draw blood. And I literally poured my own lifeblood out in order to make this."
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Jackie Cohn [09:20]: "I felt like it was funny, slightly left of center, but very human at the core."
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Adam Scott [33:03]: "This conversation would actually go. You wouldn't be recontextualizing everything for the audience and kind of digging in again and again."
Conclusion
The first episode of The Severance Podcast offers an in-depth look at the pilot of Severance, unraveling the layers of its creation, narrative structure, and character development. Ben Stiller and Adam Scott, along with their guests, provide listeners with a rich tapestry of insights, making it an invaluable resource for both fans of the show and newcomers seeking to understand its complex themes. As the podcast progresses, expect more behind-the-scenes stories, detailed episode analyses, and exclusive interviews that deepen the appreciation of this captivating workplace thriller.
Additional Highlights:
- Technical Innovations: Discussions on the use of camera techniques like the Zollie to visually represent psychological states.
- Casting Choices: Insights into why Adam Scott was the perfect fit for the role of Mark Scout and the chemistry he shares with co-stars.
- Symbolism and Metaphors: Exploration of how everyday elements, such as door hinges and recycling rules, serve as metaphors for the characters' internal struggles and the show's broader themes.
Final Thoughts: The Severance Podcast serves as a bridge between the show's intricate storytelling and its audience, offering a platform where creators and actors can share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in bringing Severance to life. Whether you're a die-hard fan or someone intrigued by the concept, this podcast episode promises a comprehensive and engaging exploration of "Good News About Hell."