Trailer - Behind the scenes

We want our trailer to provide something concrete: to describe the larp, its atmosphere, technology, and narrative. When we sat down to create the script and plan the trailer, we wanted above all to communicate the experience we are creating for our players. We ended up with six scenes that do not tell a specific story, but rather represent some of the aspects we feel are important for the larp. We wanted the different scenes to reflect events as they could actually happen for the characters.

​Even though our main focus was on the story and the atmosphere we want in the larp, we did go pretty far with the props. We used the ship emblem to brand pretty much everything from soldier uniforms to electrical diagrams and medical equipments. We used prohibitory signs to create the idea of normal life on board the Odysseus. Also, we collected a lot of props like guns, ladders, tools, medical equipments, and military equipments, as well as all the stuff represented at the poker table to make the scenes feel real.

We thought it would be nice to give you a little insight on what we had in mind when we created the scenes and how do they reflect what we want the larp to provide. In the final trailer most of these scenes are cut in several smaller scenes and mixed together.
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First scene we shot shows soldiers and a civilian playing cards and having a good time. There are personal items on the table, as well as some drinks. There is also a small pouch among the bids, looking rather suspicious. At the background there is a sign that states that it is strictly forbidden to have any narcotics onboard. At some point, a commanding officer enters the room and all the soldiers stand up and do the traditional greeting. In this scene we wanted to show glimpse of military culture in the larp as well as portray the feeling of strong community and friendship.

In another rather militaristic scene, we have a soldier sitting on a bench holding a ring and a notebook, maybe writing a letter? Their friends arrive, and they start to prepare for a mission, maybe one they might not return from. Even though the general atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, they all know very well how much is at stake and how it is a real possibility that one of them might not come home.
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Then we have two civilian women, maybe lovers, at a corner of a silent corridor. All seems to be well at first, but their words get harder and their expression grimmer. The scene ends in tears. There are several romantic plots in Odysseus for different orientations, and what is common to most is that they are complicated, heartbreaking, and problematic. There are some happy relationships, but most have some complications to be solved; in some cases, the solution may be breakup, while in others, the problems might end up making the romance stronger than ever.

Then we have two mechanics fixing broken wires and trying to stabilize a dangerous situation. All sorts of mechanical puzzles are a big part of Odysseus. We are planning to create the engine room with lots of puzzles and a manual to operate them in order to keep the ship functional.
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The larp takes place in a time of crises, so we also have a medical emergency, in which a civilian has been shot and another civilian is trying to help him and desperately calling for medic. We see a medic rushing in and starting to help the patient, but it might be too late for them. Meanwhile, the conflict goes on, and soldiers are running past them in the corridor.

The very last scene is from the bridge, where the jump is being prepped. We see a glimpse of the systems on the bridge and the jump sequence being launched. And then… a jump towards the unknown. ​

​Behind the scenes photos are taken by Axelle Cazeneuve.

​Laura, Producer of Odysseus
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