Behind the Scenes: How Severance Season 2's Epic Opening Hallway Scene Was Shot
Adam Scott plays Mark S. In Apple TV’s Severance
After a nearly three-year wait, Apple TV+'s hit show Severance returned with a jaw-dropping opening sequence that has the internet buzzing. The two-minute single-take hallway scene from Season 2 Episode 1 showcases not just storytelling brilliance, but also technical mastery in modern television production. Let's dive deep into how this remarkable sequence was achieved and the equipment that made it possible.
Breaking Down the Two-Minute Marvel
The opening sequence, which follows Adam Scott's character Mark running through Lumon's labyrinthine hallways, was filmed in ten different parts over a five-month production period. Rather than shooting the sequence all at once, the production team approached it as a "side project," filming different segments between other scenes throughout the production schedule. This methodical approach allowed them to perfect each segment while maintaining the overall cohesion of the sequence.
The Technical Breakdown
Camera Movement Techniques
The sequence employs several sophisticated camera techniques:
Robotic Arm Shots
Utilized programmable robotic arms for precise, repeatable movements
Allowed for complex camera choreography that could be replicated exactly across multiple takes
Created smooth, dynamic movements that would be impossible with traditional camera operation
Steadicam + DJI Ronin RS3
Seamless transitions between robotic and handheld shots with the DJI Ronin RS3 on a stedicam-like setup.
Careful matching of movement speeds and trajectories
Strategic use of motion blur to mask transition points
Low-Angle to High-Angle Transitions
Dynamic height changes throughout the sequence
Precise frame matching between different camera setups
Thoughtful use of ceiling lines and wall corners for transition points
Set Design and Shooting Space
The production team took advantage of Severance's distinctive set design:
Built the entire "severed floor" on a stage in the South Bronx
Utilized interconnected hallways that actually connected to each other
Employed the "Star Trek trick" of shooting the same hallway from different angles
Modified set pieces between takes to create the illusion of different locations
Map of the “Severed Floor” (Credit Ben Powell - Reddit)
The Camera Package: From Sony Venice to FX3
Primary Camera System
The show primarily uses the Sony Venice camera system with Panavision lenses, specifically:
Sony Venice 2 as the A-camera
Panavision PCZ 19-90mm T2.8 zoom lens for primary coverage
Secondary Camera System
For the hallway sequence, the team incorporated:
Sony FX3 cameras
Panavision H Series 20mm T2.8 Prime lenses
DJI Ronin RS3 Gimbal for stabilization
Why the FX3?
The Sony FX3 was chosen for specific portions of the sequence for several reasons:
Compact form factor ideal for tight spaces
Excellent motion handling capabilities
Ability to match the Venice's color science
Perfect size for gimbal operation
Cost-effective option for high-risk shots
While often categorized as a compact cinema camera or advanced videography tool, the Sony FX3 has proven itself as a legitimate player in high-end professional productions. Its implementation in Severance's complex hallway sequence joins a growing list of prestigious productions utilizing this versatile camera, including its notable use in The Creator, where it served as a B-camera alongside the Venice. What makes the FX3 particularly appealing to professional productions is its ability to deliver cinema-quality imagery in situations where larger cameras might be impractical. Its 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording, S-Cinetone color science, and robust dynamic range allow it to seamlessly intercut with footage from higher-end cinema cameras like the Venice.
Post-Production Magic
The seamless appearance of the sequence also required extensive post-production work:
Frame Blending Techniques
Sophisticated frame interpolation between shots
Careful matching of motion blur
Strategic use of natural transition points
VFX Integration
Rotoscoping work for clean transitions
Digital set extensions where needed
Careful color matching between different camera sources
Frame stabilization and smoothing
Editing Challenges
Precise timing of transitions
Maintaining consistent pacing throughout
Ensuring natural movement flow between segments
Production Timeline
The five-month shooting schedule wasn't continuous but rather strategically planned:
Shot segments between other scenes
Allowed for equipment setup and testing
Provided time for reviewing footage and making adjustments
Enabled multiple attempts at particularly challenging segments
Equipment Availability at DFI Rentals
For filmmakers inspired by this technical achievement, DFI Rentals in Los Angeles offers the exact equipment used in this groundbreaking sequence. Our inventory includes:
The Camera Packages
Sony FX3 Cinema Camera
Sony Venice Cinema Camera
Various lens options including prime and zoom configurations
Support Equipment
DJI Ronin RS3/4 Gimbal
Professional rigging solutions
Monitoring and wireless video systems
Full accessory packages
Ready to Create Your Own Epic Sequence?
Contact DFI Rentals today to learn more about our Sony camera packages and stabilization solutions. Our experienced team can help you select the perfect equipment for your next project, whether you're shooting a complex single-take sequence or need a reliable camera package for your production.
Our Commitment
Expert technical support
Comprehensive testing before rental
Flexible rental periods
Competitive rates
Full accessory packages available
Image & Video Rights
The still images and video clips featured in this article are property of Apple TV+ and are used under Fair Use for educational and critical analysis purposes. Severance™ and all related marks are trademarks of Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Images and video clips are included specifically to illustrate the technical aspects of filmmaking being discussed and represent a small portion of the original work used for educational purposes.
Credits:
Severance Season 2, Episode 1 (2025)
Created by Dan Erickson
Directed by Ben Stiller
Produced by Apple TV+
© 2025 Apple Inc. All rights reserved.
For more information about the show, visit Apple TV
