The Severance Podcast with Ben Stiller & Adam Scott

Episode: Season 2, Episode 3: Who Is Alive?
Release Date: January 31, 2025
Guest: Gwendoline Christie
Host/Authors: Ben Stiller & Adam Scott
Production: Audacy, Red Hour, Great Scott

Introduction

In the third episode of Season 2 of The Severance Podcast, hosts Ben Stiller and Adam Scott delve deep into the latest installment of the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning series Severance. This episode, titled "Who Is Alive?," offers fans an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at the show's developments, featuring a special interview with Gwendoline Christie, who joins the cast as a mysterious new Lumen employee connected to the enigmatic goats that have become a hallmark of the series.

Guest Spotlight: Gwendoline Christie’s Journey into Severance

Gwendoline Christie, renowned for her role as Brienne of Tarth in Game of Thrones, joins Ben and Adam to discuss her transition into the world of Severance. She shares her fascination with the show's unique blend of suspense and surrealism, likening it to the works of John le Carré and Alfred Hitchcock.

• Discovery and Audition: Gwendoline recounts her encounter with Ben Stiller at the Emmys, highlighting the organic connection that led to her casting. She humorously describes how, despite not initially having a role, her enthusiasm for the show impressed the team enough to bring her on board.
  "I felt so relaxed while you talk about me; it's so great." (04:17)

• Character Insights: She delves into her character, Ms. Casey, emphasizing the depth and complexity she brings to the role. Gwendoline discusses the rigorous preparation she undertook, including physical training and emotional immersion, to authentically portray someone deeply connected to the goats and the mysterious workings of Lumen.

  "The show made me angry because I loved it and it wasn't in it. Watching it was a kick in the face." (08:03)

• Creative Collaboration: Gwendoline praises the collaborative efforts with costume designer Sarah Edwards, detailing how they crafted a unique wardrobe that reflects her character's rugged and intense environment. The integration of practical elements like rubber boots was meticulously planned to enhance the authenticity of her role.
  "Sarah Edwards is completely wonderful and really skilled... Anything I do, I want it to be different." (25:13)

Deep Dive: Analyzing Key Scenes and Themes

Ben and Adam dissect pivotal moments from Episode 3, providing nuanced interpretations and behind-the-scenes anecdotes.

• The Goat Phenomenon: The introduction of Gwendoline’s character brings the mysterious goats back into focus. The hosts discuss how these animals symbolize the show's exploration of life, death, and the blurred lines between reality and memory.

  "The goats were everywhere. And I lost the goat." (33:07) – Gwendoline Christie

  They highlight the chaos and humor that real goats brought to the set, sharing personal stories of animal antics that contrasted sharply with the episode's tense narrative.

• Character Dynamics: The interaction between Ms. Casey and other characters, especially her protectiveness over the goats and her department, is examined. Ben commends Gwendoline for infusing her character with layers of mystery and authority, making Ms. Casey a formidable presence within the Lumen corporation.

  "She has a uniform on. She works in some sort of... So it's a combination of feeling like waiting for the world to catch up with me." (17:34)

• Reintegration Process: A significant scene involves Mark (Adam Scott) receiving critical information about his wife through the reintegration process. The hosts discuss the emotional gravity of this moment and Adam's authentic portrayal of Mark's turmoil.

  "That buildup to you saying, yes, let's do it, is more believable because you've had that reaction to the news building up to it." (58:26)

• Wardrobe and Production Design: Gwendoline elaborates on the collaborative process behind her character’s wardrobe, emphasizing the balance between aesthetic appeal and practical functionality to portray an environment fraught with tension and raw emotion.

  "The idea of the rubber boots to be in that environment... wading through blood or feces or whatever you have to deal with." (29:49)

Memorable Moments and Behind-the-Scenes Anecdotes

The episode is rich with amusing and insightful stories from the set:

• Animal Antics: Gwendoline shares delightful mishaps involving goats disrupting serious scenes, leading to moments of genuine laughter amidst tension. These anecdotes highlight the unpredictable nature of working with live animals and the camaraderie among the cast and crew.

  "The goats were one of my absolute favorite of the first series because when I saw the goat cry... It was a sublime moment." (34:13)

• Character Interactions: The dynamic between Helena (played by Britt Lower) and Cobell is explored, shedding light on the evolving power structures within the Lumen corporation and the underlying tensions that drive the narrative forward.

  "Helena's driver... There's this moment... Something in her gut feels wrong." (54:40)

• Zach Cherry’s Predictions: The hosts feature their friend Zach Cherry, who humorously attempts to predict upcoming plot points without having seen future episodes. His playful speculation adds a light-hearted twist to the analysis.

  "Next time on Severance... a dinosaur named Dylan and a dinosaur named Irving." (60:35)

Insights and Conclusions

Ben and Adam wrap up the episode by reflecting on the intricate storytelling and character development that make Severance a standout series. They commend Gwendoline Christie for her exceptional performance and dedication, which significantly enriches the show’s tapestry.

• Character Depth: The discussion emphasizes how each character’s unique attributes and backstories contribute to the overarching themes of memory, identity, and control within the corporate environment of Lumen.

• Production Excellence: The meticulous attention to detail in set design, wardrobe, and narrative pacing is lauded, underscoring the creators’ commitment to crafting a compelling and immersive experience for viewers.

• Future Episodes: The hosts tease upcoming developments, hinting at deeper explorations of the reintegration process and the enigmatic forces at play within Lumen, keeping listeners eagerly anticipating what’s next.

Notable Quotes

• Gwendoline Christie:
  "The show made me angry because I loved it and it wasn't in it. Watching it was a kick in the face." (08:03)

• Ben Stiller:
  "We are the givers of pain and delight." (08:06)

• Adam Scott:
  "He is a fuck up. He's sort of part of Milchick's manipulation of Dylan." (43:21)

• Gwendoline Christie:
  "Everyone pretty much was hilariously funny. We were all freaks." (10:00)

Conclusion

Season 2, Episode 3 of Severance continues to build its intricate world, blending suspense, dark humor, and profound character studies. Gwendoline Christie’s addition brings fresh layers of intrigue and depth, making "Who Is Alive?" a pivotal episode that propels the narrative into new territories. The Severance Podcast offers fans an invaluable companion to the series, providing behind-the-scenes insights and heartfelt discussions that enhance the viewing experience.

For those who haven't listened to the podcast or watched the episode, this summary provides a comprehensive overview of the key discussions, character developments, and memorable moments that define "Who Is Alive?" in Severance Season 2.