Ben Stiller’s No-Nonsense Rule on Severance Set After One Thing Frustrated Him

Filming for Severance Season 2 proved to be a lengthy and intricate endeavor. To maintain the focus of his cast and crew, director Ben Stiller adopted a practice reminiscent of Christopher Nolan‘s filmmaking principles.

The delays in the show’s return can be attributed to multiple factors, including recent Hollywood strikes, reported tensions between writers Dan Erickson and Mark Friedman, and the elaborate nature of the production process. Each episode bears a staggering production cost of approximately $20 million, positioning it among the priciest productions tailored for streaming platforms. As highlighted in our review of Severance Season 2, the series truly capitalizes on its lavish budget with stunning visuals.

Strict Policy on Phones for Enhanced Focus

To combat distractions, Stiller instituted a no phones policy on the set of Severance Season 2. He had compelling reasons for this decision. As he noted on Mike Birbiglia’s “Working It Out”podcast, Stiller prefers to eliminate phones from the actors’ line of sight.

“Crew members do need telecommunication at times, ” he admitted, “but it frustrates me to see a dolly grip engrossed in their phone while an actor is delivering an intense performance.” He emphasized that it is essential for actors to feel safe and supported in their creative space.

Stiller recognizes the need to respect the crew’s hard work, stating, “As a director, I aim to cultivate a protected environment for my actors. However, I also have to consider the crew who have recently joined the project. It’s my responsibility to engage everyone effectively.”

In line with Nolan’s controlled environment approach, Stiller also prohibits chairs on set. While places to sit are still available, he encourages movement among the crew and cast, fostering a more dynamic and energetic atmosphere.

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