Noah Schnapp and Millie Bobby Brown, who portray Will Byers and Eleven in the hit Netflix series “Stranger Things,” recently discussed their experiences with digital de-aging technology used in flashback scenes.
The De-Aging Process in “Stranger Things 5”
In the opening moments of Season 5, viewers are introduced to a de-aged version of Noah Schnapp as young Will Byers. This portrayal is achieved through the collaboration of Lola VFX, which expertly executed the face and hair transitions required for the character.
Details of the Scene
- Young actor Luke Kokotek plays the 11-year-old version of Will.
- The scene features Will in Castle Byers, trapped in the Upside Down.
- He is seen humming The Clash’s “Should I Stay Or Should I Go.”
This innovative technique combines CGI and a body double to create a seamless transition. Schnapp remarked on the fun of directing his younger counterpart and said, “It was exciting to reflect on how I acted and moved back then.” He noted the challenges of ensuring the digital effects looked authentic, saying it was “a little digital-looking” but ultimately satisfied with the outcome.
Millie Bobby Brown’s Perspective
Millie Bobby Brown expressed her excitement to see Schnapp’s de-aged scenes. She compared her experiences with the de-aging process, which she undertook for key flashbacks in Season 4, stating, “It was very interesting to reflect on my character’s early portrayals.” Brown also had the opportunity to guide her young counterpart, Martie Blair, during intense scenes involving the character Eleven.
Collaboration and Guidance
Brown emphasized the importance of teamwork in helping younger actors feel comfortable. She recalls advising Blair to embrace the silliness of the scenes, saying, “We are going to look silly because we aren’t actually moving anything with our minds, but let’s harness that superhero energy together.”
The experience for both actors not only demonstrates the technical aspects of filmmaking but also highlights their growth and reflection on their roles throughout the series. As “Stranger Things” continues to evolve, the incorporation of de-aging technology adds a unique layer to storytelling.
