The Significance of Mark’s 1997 Volvo in ‘Severance’: Insights from the Show’s Car Coordinators
Exploring the Thoughtful Car Choices in “Severance”
“Severance” is not just another show about office life; it’s a unique sci-fi drama that mixes elements of humor and horror. Set primarily in an eerie office building reminiscent of the 1970s, the show has gained popularity for its interesting characters and unsettling storyline. One of the lesser-known discussions around “Severance” is the intriguing selection of cars featured throughout the series. We spoke with key production figures to dive deeper into the significance behind the car choices.
Understanding the Ambiguous Time Setting
One of the standout features of “Severance” is how it intentionally avoids pinpointing a specific time period. According to Catherine Miller, the show’s prop master, "Cars are vital to showing time and place." To maintain an ambiguous atmosphere, the production team opted against modern vehicles, choosing instead various retro cars. By doing so, they aimed for a look that could belong to any era, making the viewing experience even more unsettling.
The show presents two distinct worlds: one is the controlled environment inside the Lumon office; the other exists outside in a parallel real world. Despite the outdoor scenes requiring cars, the intention was to create a consistently surreal experience. Cars from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, known for their bold lines and unique character, visually complement the show’s retro aesthetic.
The Process of Car Casting
Car selection begins with the script, which establishes defined characters and their lives. Peter Dancy, the car supervisor, takes an active role in determining the character of each vehicle. He emphasized that he thought of "casting cars" as if they were actors. Thus, for every primary character, multiple vehicle options were proposed.
Dancy explained, "I have to visualize what type of car a character would realistically drive." The show exhibited this practice with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that the vehicle choices resonated with the character’s personality and backstory.
Significant Car Choices for Characters
Here’s a breakdown of a few notable car choices that exemplify the fuzzy line between character traits, nostalgia, and the overarching theme of the show:
Mark Scout’s Volvo: Played by Adam Scott, Mark drives a ’90s Volvo, chosen for its reputation for safety, which is ironic given the car’s connection to his tragic past. The boxy design aligns perfectly with the innate qualities of Mark as a sensible and cautious person.
Dylan’s Minivan: Dylan, played by Zach Cherry, embodies family characteristics, making the classic Dodge Caravan the perfect fit. The minivan reflects a warm, nostalgic vibe, speaking to the shared experiences of many families.
Devon Scout-Hale’s Range Rover: For Mark’s sister, Devon, a classic Range Rover captures her grounded yet upscale lifestyle, serving as a status symbol while still being practical.
- Milchick’s Motorcycle: Seth Milchick, played by Tramell Tillman, is a complex character. His motorcycle adds an air of mystery and solitude to his persona, enhancing his lone wolf behavior.
Challenges in Finding the Right Cars
Finding cars that fit the show’s aesthetic was no small feat. Dancy often searched online marketplaces, drove between states, and even placed cards under windshield wipers to negotiate with car owners directly. Even after sourcing vehicles, the production team faced challenges in maintaining a consistent look across multiple scenes. They often had to replicate vehicles precisely, ensuring paint, upholstery, and overall wear were identical across duplicates.
Some cars had to undergo significant modifications to fit the show’s needs. For example, the production team needed to find five functional Volkswagen Rabbits. This presented a challenge because most surviving models had diesel engines or other elements not suited for filming. They went through the trouble of swapping engines to meet filming standards, illustrating just how dedicated they were to achieve a specific vision.
Timeless Cars, Endless Impact
The decision to use ambiguous cars serves a greater purpose beyond aesthetics. These cars contribute to the unsettling atmosphere of the show, leaving viewers with a sense of disorientation akin to the characters’ experiences. The timeless feel of the vehicles allows audiences to question their reality, mirroring the show’s themes of existential dread and identity crises.
The car choices in “Severance” may seem like minor details at first glance, but they play a crucial role in reinforcing the story’s ambiance and the complexities of its characters. The thoughtful car casting becomes another layer of storytelling, showing that every detail matters in creating a riveting narrative.
As “Severance” advances through its seasons, who knows what new car choices might appear? Each vehicle enriches the characters and invites viewers to delve into the intricacies of the show’s world.
