Director and co-writer Patrick Hughes has shared insights into crafting the dynamic action sequences of Netflix’s sci-fi film War Machine, which draws inspiration from classic action films. The movie pays homage to iconic titles including Predator and Aliens, combining thrilling storytelling with practical effects that enhance the viewer’s experience.
Hughes emphasizes the importance of authenticity in action sequences. He sought to replicate the feel of 1980s action films by filming on location and utilizing real stunts. A notable scene features the characters being blown off a cliff, showcasing the film’s commitment to practical effects. “That was really dangerous work,” Hughes recounted in an interview with Polygon. “That was day one, take one, shot one. I wanted to set the tone with shot one.” The explosive start marks the film’s high-octane nature and sets the stage for the intense action that follows.
Starring Alan Ritchson as “81,” an Army Ranger applicant, the film’s plot centers around his squad’s final combat simulation, interrupted by an extraterrestrial threat. Ritchson described the cliff scene as “one of the rare moments” where his stunt double took the hit, showcasing the rigorous demands placed on the stunt team. “The bumps and bruises were real,” he noted, praising the team for their outstanding work.
Hughes believes that effective action sequences are rooted in emotional storytelling. He explained that each stunt should tie back to the characters’ motivations. “What is the object of desire?” he posed, highlighting the narrative depth that accompanies the action. The film’s chase sequence, featuring Ritchson and his team battling the alien from an armored vehicle, exemplifies this philosophy. Hughes designed the sequence to have three distinct acts, allowing for moments of hope before the tension escalates.
“The best action sequences have a rhythm,” Hughes stated, reflecting on the pacing of the chase. He aims to keep audiences on the edge of their seats, leading them through a rollercoaster of emotions. “You go from a positive charge to a negative charge, then back to a positive charge,” he explained, underscoring the importance of “false victories” in maintaining viewer engagement.
The film’s technical execution involved innovative methods to create a visceral experience. Hughes utilized wire gags and a movable gimbal to simulate the chaotic environment inside the armored vehicle. Ritchson added that shooting in such confined spaces was intense, with “a lot of sharp edges” to navigate.
While Ritchson allowed his stunt double to take some of the more dangerous falls, he was eager to perform as many stunts as possible. “I don’t really have a line for what I will or won’t do,” he stated, noting that the visceral reactions of the audience stem from the authenticity of the performances. “The audience and us are in it together,” he emphasized.
As War Machine continues to stream on Netflix, its blend of nostalgia and modern filmmaking techniques promises to captivate viewers. Hughes’s dedication to practical effects and emotional depth elevates the film, setting a new standard for action in the sci-fi genre.
