The Wheel of Time Season 2: Behind-the-Scenes Secrets & Spectacular VFX Unveiled

Summary

The Wheel of Time season 2 has improved in its visual effects, bringing the One Power and iconic locations to life.

VFX supervisor Andy Scrase focused on fan interests and incorporated innovative elements, including the incorporation of colors to convey the complexities of channeling. Working closely with the actors, Scrase ensured that the way each character utilizes the One Power is distinct, reflecting their individual personalities. Additionally, he distinguished the channeling techniques used by various groups, such as Aes Sedai and damane.

Warning: The following contains SPOILERS for season 2, episode 6 of The Wheel of Time on Prime Video. The second season of The Wheel of Time continues the adaptation of the epic story, first introduced in 1990 with the release of Robert Jordan's novel, The Eye of the World. While the first season had a somewhat shaky start in finding the right balance between staying true to the source material and establishing its own identity, the second season feels more confident in both honoring and diverging from Jordan's original work.

One aspect in which the second season of The Wheel of Time truly shines is its visual effects. The One Power has been given a fresh new look, and iconic locations from the series have been brought to life through impressive digital set extensions. Credit for this achievement goes to Andy Scrase, the new VFX supervisor for season 2. With a notable background in VFX, including his work on films like Ex Machina and Aladdin, Scrase has brought a book-first approach to The Wheel of Time, which has been well-received. However, he does acknowledge that taking creative liberties can often be beneficial.

Andy Scrase On The Wheel Of Time Season 2

Andy Scrase discussed the VFX changes in season 2 of The Wheel of Time, his collaboration with the actors on the depiction of the One Power, and more in a recent conversation with Screen Rant. The following interview has been condensed and edited for ease of reading, with some of the audio being distorted during the Zoom call. It is important to note that this interview took place amidst the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes, and the production of the show would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the writers and actors who are members of these unions.

Screen Rant: This won’t come out until after the sixth episode, so we can talk about it. I watched it last night; it’s so good. It’s my favorite one yet.

Andy Scrase: Is Egwene's fate leaving a lasting emotional impact?

Honestly, I'm familiar with the narrative, yet the portrayal is impeccable. However, my initial question revolves around the contrasting approach to VFX between season two and season one.

Andy Scrase: As a newcomer to the show, I had certain ideas and priorities in mind. Understanding and catering to the fan base was important to me, so I focused on enhancing the channeling aspect. The introduction of vibrant colors served as a concise way to visually represent the complexities of the weave, which is a crucial part of the unique and special magic system in Wheel of Time.

However, I also had the opportunity to use my imagination and interpret various ideas and concepts from the stories. Discussions with Rafe and the script played a significant role in shaping my approach. Joining the shoot during its later stages meant that certain aspects were already established. So, I collaborated with other department heads to see how I could contribute, whether it was through enhancing channeling or creating realistic environments using digital extensions for locations like Falme, Cairhien, and Tar Valon.

I am fascinated by how the different characters in the show harness the One Power in their own unique ways. The latest episode showcases some truly impressive examples of this. I'm curious to know what factors contribute to this distinctiveness. Is there a collaborative process with the actors involved?

Andy Scrase: When I joined the show, I felt it was important to have conversations with the cast members who can channel. For our main cast members who possess this ability, I would discuss their thoughts and emotions associated with channeling. Additionally, I would inquire about their personal interpretation of their character, not influenced by the fans' opinions. This exploration led me to consider if there are techniques to differentiate a channeling style that reflects the character's personality more accurately.

We have definitely achieved success with individuals like Liandrin. If you observe her threads, you will notice that everything is impeccably controlled and tense around her. She restrains her power, appearing rigid like a coiled viper prepared to strike. Therefore, I aimed to portray this characteristic by incorporating it into the way individuals channel.

Furthermore, each group of channelers possesses a distinct style. This includes our Aes Sedai, damane, male channelers, and Forsaken. To infuse a geometric and futuristic essence, I have utilized tighter, more constricted threads with cleaner formations.

With our damane, we aimed to give them a distinct channeling experience while maintaining the visual aspect of the threads, which is crucial in conveying the use of the One Power. To achieve this, we focused on the layout and movement around the person. In the case of the damane, channeling takes on a metaphorical element as it forms a cage around them. Incorporating a visual representation of pulling a cage around their arms added an intriguing dimension for our audience. I'm delighted that people have noticed the cages appearing around the damane while they channel. Additionally, for male channeling, we introduced the concept of a gradual black corruption that develops as they channel.

On that note, I must applaud the portrayal of Rand channeling saidin. It appears untamed, just as one would imagine, and it's fantastic that you captured that sense of being out of control.

Andy Scrase: Absolutely. Rand's actions are completely involuntary. I noticed this during my conversation with Josha while we were filming in Morocco. When I asked him about his influence, he replied, "It's there one moment and gone the next. He has no control over it." Particularly in the earlier episodes of the season, you can observe that Rand's ability to channel is fragmented and sporadic. It seems to come in waves around him, indicating his lack of complete connection and control over the One Power. The channeling occurs in fits and starts, serving as yet another tool to illustrate the intricate relationship between channeling and the One Power itself.

There are certain elements from the books that were not included in the show, which would have required visual effects (VFX). An example of this is the wild-looking creatures that exist in the Seanchan storyline. Are these types of elements initially considered but then removed due to budget constraints? Or are they generally excluded from the scripts altogether?

Andy Scrase: When it comes to script development, a wide range of things is discussed. In the case of the Seanchan, they are already quite menacing in their appearance, especially with their intimidating helmets. Sometimes, having that scary element is enough, and it's best to let it speak for itself. In this season, we also had the opportunity to make the damane (a different group) even scarier. From the beginning, our focus was on capturing the essence of these characters or groups, like the formidable and dominating force that the Seanchan represent.

Which set or set extension posed the biggest challenge?

Andy Scrase: Each one was equally challenging due to the high expectations from fans. Each set has its own unique elements. Cairhien, for example, has its iconic towers. Tar Valon, on the other hand, has a blend of various cultures and heavily incorporates stone masonry, influenced by the Ogier. And then there's Falme, our picturesque coastal town.

Each of them poses their own set of challenges, with distinct and individual appearances. My aim was to seamlessly integrate the extensions, making them appear as though they truly existed and were being captured on camera. I believe we achieved success in accomplishing this.

Though it may be speculative, how would you envision designing the revived heroes from the Wheel of Time's history?

Andy Scrase: I may have an answer for that, or perhaps not. Uncertain if I possess the ability to provide a response, actually. How would I go about designing them visually? When it comes to this matter, personally, I primarily rely on the script and discussions with Rafe. However, I also consult our book expert, Sarah Nakamura, who proves to be quite helpful. Regardless of the type of design required for the show, I always refer back to the books as my starting point. From there, I may consider making minor adjustments to make it more visually captivating. Nevertheless, if it involves designing something, I always draw inspiration from the books, specifically Robert Jordan's original material.

Undoubtedly, the use of channeling in the show receives much attention, but there are numerous other fascinating instances where VFX plays a role, such as Min's visions and the Ogier treesinging in episode 6. Do you have a favorite aspect, unrelated to channeling, that you've had the opportunity to work on?

Andy Scrase enjoys working on projects where visual effects (VFX) are involved, particularly when the audience is unaware that certain elements are digitally created. One example is the seals in the opening scene of episode 201, which were entirely digital. Another enjoyable task was creating the flies that Perrin encounters in his vision, as it was a nod to the original books. Overall, Andy finds satisfaction in seamlessly incorporating visual effects that go unnoticed by the audience.

About The Wheel Of Time

Discover interviews with the cast and crew of Season Two of Wheel of Time

Sharon Gilham

Jan Petrina

Davina Lamont

Ondrej Nekvasil & Ondrej Nierostek

Sanaa Hamri & Thomas Napper

Josha Stradowski

Madeleine Madden & Daniel Henney

Marcus Rutherford, Donal Finn & Ceara Coveney

Zoë Robins

New episodes of The Wheel of Time release on Fridays on Prime Video.