In the world of animation, particularly in the realm of “Star Trek: Lower Decks,” the creative team has made a conscious choice to embrace a certain aesthetic that some might describe as intentionally budget-friendly. This approach not only pays homage to the franchise’s storied history but also allows for a unique storytelling experience that resonates with fans of the original series.
During a recent visit to Titmouse, Inc., the animation studio behind “Lower Decks,” producer Megan Treviño and director Barry Kelly shared insights into their creative process. They discussed how the show translates the iconic elements of live-action “Star Trek” into animated form while also maintaining a playful nod to the franchise’s low-budget roots.
Treviño humorously remarked, “We have a budget too,” highlighting the reality that even in animation, financial constraints play a significant role. However, she emphasized that the team’s imagination is boundless, allowing them to create vibrant worlds on a blank canvas. This freedom is balanced by a strategic approach to storytelling, where the team alternates between grand adventures and bottle episodes that primarily take place on the ship.
Kelly elaborated on this strategy, explaining that the typical episode structure often involves a mix of scenes set on the ship and on various planets. “We try to limit how much we’re showing,” he said, echoing the resourcefulness of earlier “Star Trek” productions. The team aims to reuse sets creatively, moving elements around to give the impression of different locations while keeping production costs manageable.
This method of reusing sets is reminiscent of the original “Star Trek” series, which often relied on minimalistic designs to convey its futuristic settings. The creative team behind “Lower Decks” has taken this concept and run with it, crafting episodes that intentionally reflect the charm of those early productions.
One standout episode, titled “Caves,” exemplifies this approach. Treviño described it as one of her favorites, noting its clever meta-humor. The episode features a cave that is a direct nod to the iconic cave sets from previous “Star Trek” iterations. “If you are ‘Star Trek’ fans, you know the cave, and we’re like, ‘Yeah, we’ll just have the same cave,'” she said, emphasizing the playful nature of the episode.
However, recreating the cave set was no simple task. Kelly pointed out that it needed to capture the essence of a “cheap” set, complete with flat floors and mismatched colors. “The second time you’re like, ‘Yeah, there’s nothing on the floor. It’s completely flat. It doesn’t match the color,'” he explained. This attention to detail is part of what makes “Lower Decks” so enjoyable for fans, as it invites them to appreciate both the cleverness and the cheesiness of the franchise’s history.
In many ways, “Star Trek: Lower Decks” serves as a love letter to the franchise’s past. The creative team has embraced the quirks and limitations of earlier productions, using them as a springboard for their own storytelling. By intentionally incorporating budget-friendly animated sets, they create a unique viewing experience that resonates with long-time fans while also appealing to new audiences.
The show’s ability to balance humor, nostalgia, and creativity is a testament to the talent behind it. As “Lower Decks” prepares to return for its fifth and final season, fans can look forward to more adventures that celebrate the spirit of “Star Trek” while also embracing the charm of its budget-conscious roots.
Ultimately, the decision to use budget-friendly animated sets in “Lower Decks” is not just a practical choice; it is a deliberate artistic statement. By leaning into the franchise’s history of low-budget production, the team has crafted a show that is both a tribute to the past and a fresh take on the beloved universe. This approach allows “Lower Decks” to stand out in the crowded landscape of animated series, proving that sometimes, a little bit of cheapness can go a long way in creating something truly special.
As fans eagerly await the next season, it is clear that “Star Trek: Lower Decks” will continue to explore the boundaries of animation while honoring the legacy of its predecessors. The combination of humor, creativity, and a touch of nostalgia makes it a standout series that is sure to leave a lasting impact on the “Star Trek” franchise.
Source: Paramount+/Static Media
