Invasion Season 2: Alik Sakharov Sets the Terrace Ablaze with Intriguing Tones and Future Visions

Summary

Invasion season 2 expands on the show's characters and extraterrestrial lifeforms, making the two-year wait worthwhile.

Director Alik Sakharov reflects on his role in season 2 and the difficulties of filming amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The second season of Invasion captivates viewers with its dynamic action sequences and captivating narratives, ensuring a thrilling and suspenseful watch.

Apple TV+'s sci-fi series, Invasion, has proved to be a major success in its first season and is now back with an even more captivating second season. This new season takes the show's characters and extraterrestrial lifeforms to new heights, making the anticipation of the almost two-year wait between seasons well worth it.

Invasion follows the plight of humanity as it faces a relentless alien invasion, presenting the perspectives of various human characters scattered across the globe. The series also showcases the creative vision of different directors, including Alik Sakharov, who helms multiple episodes of this thrilling creation from Simon Kinberg and David Weil.

Alik Sakharov Talks Invasion Season 2

Screen Rant: Can you tell us about your involvement in Invasion as a director?

Alik Sakharov: As a devoted fan of season 1, watching all 10 episodes, I eagerly sought to join season 2. With the help of my agent, I had the opportunity to meet with Simon Kinberg, Audrey Chon, and the Apple executives. After engaging in meaningful discussions, I received an offer to join the team and gladly accepted the job.

How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect Invasion season 2?

Alik Sakharov: Yes, the pandemic did impact Invasion season 2. We had to follow strict protocols, including wearing masks, in order to adhere to the safety requirements imposed on all productions.

Alik Sakharov: The making of Invasion season 2 was both exciting and challenging. It stood out from other projects I've worked on due to the show's expansive nature and its incorporation of intense dramatic elements. Personally, what intrigued me the most was that the show was character-driven, which aligns with my expertise in developing compelling dramas amidst thrilling action sequences. Instead of a traditional earthly foe, we faced an extraterrestrial enemy, adding an additional layer of tension. However, the series also delves into the dynamics of "us against them," creating a dramatic conflict.

What stood out to you the most during the making of Invasion season 2?

Alik Sakharov: There were several significant challenges we faced. One notable challenge was crafting a highly energetic sequence in the first five minutes of the season, where the aliens are attacking. We needed to establish a fast pace and intense action. The scale of the show itself presented its own set of difficulties, given the extensive visual effects and the large number of extras and cameras involved. We actually filmed that sequence using six cameras. Despite these challenges, we were able to overcome them successfully through thorough preparation and visualization.

Avoiding spoilers, what can you share about where Invasion season 2 takes its characters and some of the most interesting developments this season?

Alik Sakharov: Without revealing any spoilers, investing four or five hours into the show will undoubtedly captivate you. The intriguing storylines will keep you hooked until the very last episode, unveiling the unexpected twists and turns.

Apart from the pandemic, what sets working on Invasion apart from your previous projects?

Working during the pandemic presents numerous challenges that require heightened awareness and caution. Maintaining physical distance and adhering to protocols consume time, such as morning testing which already takes around 10 minutes. Additionally, setting up shots in a confined space necessitates a crew size that abides by the set limit. These constraints pose difficulties, and in order to stay on schedule, thorough preparation and a clear understanding of tasks are essential.

During the pre-production stage, my main challenge was to design the show in a way that prevented delays and the need for extra shooting days. With a limited timeframe of 12 to 15 days per episode, it became crucial to visualize the entire story from beginning to end. This involved a disciplined approach of determining what needs to be achieved, how it should be set up, what shots are required, and ensuring it all fits within the allotted time.

What significant changes can viewers anticipate in terms of the story and characters in Invasion season 2?

Alik Sakharov: Season 2 builds upon the foundation laid in season 1. While season 1 focused on introspection, season 2 is fueled by intense energy and action. Without giving away any spoilers, viewers will quickly grasp the fast-paced and dynamic nature of the show. As a result, the action in season 2 surpasses that of season 1 in terms of intensity and momentum.

About Invasion Season 2

Produced by Simon Kinberg and David Weil, the compelling science fiction drama series "Invasion" depicts an alien invasion from various perspectives across the globe. Starring Shamier Anderson, Golshifteh Farahani, Sam Neill, Firas Nassar, and Shioli Kutsuna, the show takes place across multiple continents.

Continuing the intense storyline, the action-packed second season of "Invasion" resumes just months after the initial attacks, as the aliens intensify their assault in a full-scale war against humanity. The cast includes Golshifteh Farahani, Shioli Kutsuna, Shamier Anderson, India Brown, Billy Barratt, Azhy Robertson, Paddy Holland, and Tara Moayedi. Season two introduces new series regulars Enver Gjokaj, Nedra Marie Taylor, and Naian González Norvind.

Check out our other Invasion interview with visual effects supervisor Erik Henry.

Invasion season 2 streams new episodes on Apple TV+ on Wednesdays.