“What Happened to Monday” used creative filming techniques, including split screens and CGI, to portray the seven identical sisters played by Noomi Rapace.
In the production of “What Happened to Monday,” a science fiction thriller directed by Tommy Wirkola, the filmmakers faced the unique challenge of depicting seven identical sisters, all portrayed by Noomi Rapace. To achieve this, they employed a combination of practical effects, camera tricks, and digital effects.
Rapace’s performance was central to the film’s success. She filmed scenes multiple times, each time playing a different sister, with careful attention to the distinct personalities and mannerisms of each one. The production used body doubles to stand in for the sisters during scenes where they interacted with each other. These doubles would mimic the actions and positions that Rapace would later perform, ensuring that the interactions would look natural when the scenes were composited together.
The filmmakers utilized motion control technology, which allowed them to repeat camera movements with precision. This was crucial for scenes where Rapace’s character interacted with her siblings, as it ensured that each take was consistent in terms of camera angles and movements, allowing for seamless integration of the performances in post-production.
In post-production, visual effects teams worked meticulously to stitch together the different takes, using split screens and CGI to create the illusion of multiple identical characters on screen at the same time. They also had to ensure that lighting and shadows were consistent across the different shots to maintain the illusion of simultaneity.
The result was a convincing portrayal of septuplets, with Rapace’s performance and the technical wizardry of the production team creating a seamless experience for the audience. The film’s success in this regard is a testament to the advancements in filmmaking technology and the skill of both the on-screen and behind-the-scenes talent.
