Behind the scenes: Insights from top TV series producers
A conversation with the minds behind ‘True Detective,’ ‘Fargo,’ and ‘Lessons in Chemistry’
In the ever-evolving world of television, few names stand out as much as those behind some of the most critically acclaimed series. Recently, a virtual panel brought together the executive producers of ‘True Detective: Night Country,’ ‘Fargo,’ and ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ to discuss their Emmy nominations and the creative processes behind their shows. The discussion was not only enlightening but also filled with personal anecdotes and reflections that offer a deeper understanding of these beloved series.
The allure of ‘True Detective’
Noah Hawley, the executive producer of ‘Fargo,’ expressed a keen interest in working on ‘True Detective’ if given the chance. “Oh my God. Let’s do it,” he exclaimed, to which Issa Lopez, the executive producer of ‘True Detective: Night Country,’ responded enthusiastically, “I would only do it with you.”
Hawley praised Lopez’s approach to the series, highlighting her use of magic realism to expand on the show’s themes. “What I loved about what Issa did was to take this sort of magic realism and really expand that idea that was always present in ‘True Detective,’ the extreme location and creating a mystery that is both literal and metaphorical,” he said.
Interconnected universes and character parallels
The panel also delved into the intriguing connections between their shows. For instance, Jodie Foster plays police chief Liz Danvers in ‘True Detective,’ while Brie Larson stars as Elizabeth Zott in ‘Lessons in Chemistry.’ Both characters share the last name Danvers, leading to playful speculation about their potential familial ties. “I’m thinking that Elizabeth Zott could be the mother of my Danvers,” Lopez mused, with Lee Eisenberg, the executive producer of ‘Lessons in Chemistry,’ adding, “You should talk to Apple and HBO!”
The significance of props
Props play a crucial role in storytelling, often symbolizing deeper themes and character relationships. For ‘True Detective: Night Country,’ a SpongeBob SquarePants toothbrush became a poignant symbol of a romantic relationship. “This is a very special, magical item because it embodies the humor and sexiness of a relationship,” Lopez explained.
In ‘Fargo,’ a box of Bisquick mix served as a connection to home for Juno Temple’s character, Dot Lyon. “The brands become part of the vernacular,” Hawley noted. “We created that moment where she stops and looks at them.”
Eisenberg shared a similar story about lasagna in ‘Lessons in Chemistry.’ “Lasagna is the first dish that we see Elizabeth making on ‘Supper at Six,'” he said. “It was an opportunity for her to talk metaphorically, using burning the lasagna to talk about allowing outside variables and that you can’t control everything in life.”
Endings and new beginnings
The panelists also discussed the endings of their respective seasons and the messages they hoped to convey. Lopez remained tight-lipped about the fate of Navarro in ‘True Detective: Night Country,’ encouraging viewers to interpret the ending for themselves. “There is an openness and an intention of letting the audience decide what they want to happen to Navarro,” she said.
Hawley reflected on the bittersweet ending of ‘Fargo,’ where the death of Witt served as a reminder that “not every good guy wins and not every bad guy loses.” He emphasized the importance of forgiveness in the series’ narrative, particularly in the context of America’s polarized political climate.
Eisenberg highlighted the uplifting conclusion of ‘Lessons in Chemistry,’ where Elizabeth Zott evolves into a professor, surrounded by a supportive community. “She starts off the show and she’s so closed off. And then, through Calvin’s loss, all these people materialize in her life, surrounding her with a family dinner,” he said.
Looking ahead
As the panel wrapped up, the producers shared their plans for the future. Lopez is currently working on a new season of ‘True Detective,’ while Hawley is focused on ‘Alien: Earth,’ a new series for FX. Eisenberg, on the other hand, hinted that ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ might have reached its natural conclusion, with no immediate plans for a sequel.
For fans of these series, the insights provided by the panel offer a deeper appreciation of the creative processes and thematic elements that make these shows so compelling. Whether it’s the magic realism of ‘True Detective,’ the symbolic props in ‘Fargo,’ or the character evolution in ‘Lessons in Chemistry,’ each series offers a unique narrative experience that continues to captivate audiences.
Explore more
- Watch the trailer for True Detective: Night Country
- Watch the trailer for Fargo
- Watch the trailer for Lessons in Chemistry
For music enthusiasts, explore the soundtrack of ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ on Spotify.
By delving into the minds of these creative visionaries, we gain a richer understanding of the intricate storytelling and character development that define some of today’s most beloved TV series.