The Severance Podcast with Ben Stiller & Adam Scott
Episode Summary: S1E3 - "In Perpetuity" (with Britt Lower)
Release Date: January 8, 2025

Introduction

In the third episode of The Severance Podcast, hosts Ben Stiller and Adam Scott welcome guest Britt Lower, who portrays Helly R on the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning TV show Severance. This episode delves deep into the intricacies of Season 1, Episode 3 titled "In Perpetuity," offering listeners an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the creative process, character development, and production challenges.

Recap of "In Perpetuity"

Timestamp [19:18] Ben Stiller:
Ben begins by discussing Reintegration Sickness, a condition experienced by characters undergoing the severance procedure. He explains that Petey suffers from hallucinations and physical symptoms like nosebleeds and coughing, creating a disorienting experience as he oscillates between his Innie (work persona) and Audi (personal persona).

Timestamp [22:30] Britt Lower:
Britt elaborates on the shared subconscious between Innies and Audis, highlighting how trauma and grief bleed through both personas. She emphasizes her character Helly's role as a catalyst for change, constantly questioning the status quo and pushing others to do the same.

Timestamp [26:54] Ben Stiller:
The trio discusses Helly's various escape attempts from Lumen Industries, including her undelivered resignation and creative methods to evade detection, such as writing messages on her arms or ingesting pen caps containing notes.

Character Dynamics and Development

Helly and Mark's Relationship

Timestamp [12:01] Ben Stiller:
Ben highlights the dynamic between Mark and Helly, portraying them as dual protagonists. Helly's defiance contrasts with Mark's desire to maintain order, creating a compelling tension that drives the narrative forward.

Timestamp [25:04] Ben Stiller:
They explore the character of Milchick, portrayed by John Turturro, noting his calm demeanor and unpredictable actions, adding layers to the show's suspense.

Production Insights

Set Design and Filming Challenges

Timestamp [02:33] Adam Scott:
Adam and Ben discuss the challenges of filming Severance in the New York area, particularly the race against time to complete winter shots before the leaves begin to bud, necessitating creative solutions like using plastic sheets to simulate snow.

Timestamp [34:22] Ben Stiller:
Ben delves into the design of the MDR cubicle, emphasizing its bespoke nature and the flexibility of its dividers to accommodate various scenes. He praises John Turturro's performance, especially his comedic timing with the set's features.

Timestamp [43:30] Adam Scott:
The hosts describe the creation of the Keir Egan House, inspired by the Temple of Dendur, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail in set replication and the integration of authentic architectural elements.

Behind-the-Scenes Anecdotes

Britt Lower's Audition Experience

Timestamp [08:07] Britt Lower:
Britt shares her journey to landing the role of Helly, describing the initial hesitance due to the competitive audition process and the creative freedom she exercised in her self-tape from her bathroom, which Ben praises for its cinematic quality.

Timestamp [46:46] Britt Lower:
Britt recounts the unique challenges of acting while wearing Libra head camera equipment, likening the camera operators to basketball teammates due to their coordinated movements during hallway scenes.

Notable Scenes Discussed

Helly's Escape Attempts

Timestamp [26:54] Britt Lower:
Britt discusses Helly's multiple failed attempts to escape Lumen, including riding on her arms and ingesting pen caps, emphasizing the character's relentless pursuit of freedom despite mounting obstacles.

Timestamp [40:02] Britt Lower:
The emotional weight of Helly being forced to read the Compunction Statement is analyzed, showcasing a pivotal moment where Helly confronts the loss of her autonomy.

Timestamp [54:05] Ben Stiller:
Ben touches on the climactic scene where Petey collapses at a convenience store, heightening the episode's suspense and leaving the audience in cliffhanger anticipation of his fate.

Creative Choices and Inspirations

Visual Storytelling Techniques

Timestamp [15:56] Ben Stiller:
Ben credits filmmakers like Michel Gondry and Christopher Nolan for inspiring the show’s grounded visual effects. He explains the decision to use minimal visual effects, relying instead on practical solutions to depict the overlapping realities of the Severed characters.

Timestamp [33:24] Britt Lower:
Britt draws parallels between the episode's visual narrative and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, pointing out the dissolution of memories and the blending of realities within the show's framework.

Wardrobe and Character Identity

Helly's Iconic Look

Timestamp [67:33] Britt Lower:
Britt discusses her collaboration with costume designer Sarah Edwards, focusing on Helly's functional yet stylish wardrobe. She highlights the hand-knit sweaters and tailored A-line skirts that allow her character to move freely during escape attempts.

Timestamp [65:00] Ben Stiller:
Ben praises Adam's hairstyle for its sleek and timeless quality, contrasting it with Helly's rebellious look. They humorously debate the impact of hair choices on character perception.

Conclusion and Future Insights

As the episode wraps up, Ben and Adam reflect on the emotional and psychological layers of Severance. Britt shares her strategies for embodying a character with no personal history, emphasizing the importance of separating her identity from Helly's traumatic experiences. The hosts tease future discussions, hinting at deeper explorations of character relationships and the expanding lore of Lumen Industries.

Final Timestamp [71:35] Ben Stiller:
Ben signs off by inviting listeners to engage with the podcast and stay tuned for more episode breakdowns and exclusive content.

Notable Quotes

• Ben Stiller [04:15]: "Whenever you say we should have permanent daylight savings time, I hear sort of anecdotally, farmers won't like that."

• Britt Lower [12:01]: "She's this sort of catalyst for asking questions. I think 80% of my dialogue in season one were questions like, what the hell is going on here?"

• Adam Scott [33:24]: "It really reminded me of Eternal Sunshine when the memories are kind of dissolving into each other."

• Ben Stiller [57:06]: "It is hard because you have to commit to a tone and a feeling and a level of whatever it is that might seem totally, you know, in the moment."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Severance Podcast offers a comprehensive exploration of "In Perpetuity," blending plot analysis with intimate insights into the show's creation. Through candid conversations and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, Ben, Adam, and Britt provide a rich and engaging narrative that deepens the listener's understanding and appreciation of Severance. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the show, this episode serves as an invaluable resource for unraveling the complexities of this gripping workplace thriller.