Director and co-writer Patrick Hughes has shared insights into the creation of action sequences in his latest film, War Machine, now streaming on Netflix. The film pays homage to classic science fiction movies, notably drawing inspiration from Predator and other iconic titles like Aliens and War of the Worlds. Set against a backdrop of military operations and extraterrestrial threats, Hughes aimed to replicate the visceral experience of 1980s action films.
Cinematic Techniques and Practical Effects
Hughes emphasizes the importance of practical effects in creating a sense of realism for the audience. One of the film’s standout sequences occurs when protagonists are dramatically blown off a cliff during a combat simulation. “That was really dangerous work,” Hughes told Polygon. “It was day one, take one, shot one. We called ‘Action!’ and at the same time, I pressed the button that would explode 12 actors off a cliff.” This hands-on approach, relying on real stunts rather than CGI, sets the film apart.
Starring Alan Ritchson as “81,” an Army Ranger applicant, the film features intense action sequences that engage and thrill viewers. Ritchson described the cliff scene as “one of the rare moments” where his stunt double took the hit, revealing the physical toll on the cast. “My stunt double, Ryan Tarran, ended up looking like somebody had spray-painted him purple,” Ritchson recalled, highlighting the real dangers involved in their work.
Crafting Emotional Action
Hughes’ philosophy about action sequences extends beyond mere spectacle. He believes that each stunt must connect to an emotional core, creating a deeper investment for viewers. “In any sort of stunt, we’re breaking it down into story form, saying, ‘What is the object of desire?’” Hughes explained. This narrative approach is particularly evident in a thrilling chase scene, where Ritchson’s character and his team engage in a tense battle against an alien assailant.
For this sequence, Hughes structured it into three acts, allowing moments of optimism to punctuate the tension. “If you look at the best action sequences, they really have a rhythm,” he noted. The chase unfolds inside an armored vehicle, emphasizing both the chaos of the fight and the characters’ desperation. “It’s quite breathtaking,” Hughes added, as the sequence builds to an exhilarating climax.
One technique Hughes employs is the “false victory” trope, where characters experience a moment of triumph before facing new challenges. “This is going to give Ritchson flashbacks,” he said, reflecting on the intense moments of filming. “You think, ‘Oh, OK, the heroes won!’ And then you completely reverse that.” Such narrative twists keep audiences engaged and invested in the outcome.
The physical challenges of filming in a confined space added to the intensity. “We used a lot of wire gags,” Hughes revealed. “The VFX we did use was painting out the wires that are literally pulling actors into the ceiling.” Ritchson added, “There were a lot of sharp edges,” highlighting the inherent risks of shooting dynamic scenes within the vehicle.
Despite the challenges, Ritchson took on as many stunts as possible, stating, “I don’t really have a line for what I will or won’t do. It just comes down to what we’re allowed to do as a production.” His commitment to realism enhances the audience’s connection to the film, ensuring a thrilling viewing experience.
War Machine is now available for streaming on Netflix, offering a fresh take on the action genre through its commitment to practical effects and emotional storytelling.
