The Netflix Film Club has launched a four-part BTS (behind the scenes) video series about the making of the Army of the Dead. The series conducted by the director and cinematographer Zack Snyder, sheds light on the creative process from many aspects, starting with the opening title sequences. 

“The first movie I shot with a digital camera”

This is what Snyder says about Army of the Dead, as opening words for the upcoming filmmaking series: “Whatever movie you make, you should make it as if there’s no chance you’ll make another one. Your passion and your dedication need to reflect that point of view. There are no production constraints on you and your drawing. Army of the Dead is the first movie I shot with a digital camera. That’s a beautiful thing. This is all I’ve got and I’m gonna do it all the way”

Whatever movie you make, you should make it as if there’s no chance you’ll make another one.

Director and cinematographer Zack Snyder

Director and cinematographer

Army of the Dead was shot on the RED Monstro, which is the flagship camera made by RED Digital Cinema. The camera was modified specially for Snyder (Read: ‘Army of the Dead’ Trailer Is Out: Shot on RED Monstro by Cinematographer (and Director) Zack Snyder). Furthermore, the cameras were paired with a very special glass, which is the Canon Rangefinder lenses (Read: Zack Snyder’s ‘Army of the Dead’ was Shot on Canon Rehoused Vintage Full-Frame Lenses). That means the cinematography tools were modified for Snyder to grant him the desired look.

Also, Snyder worked as his own cinematographer, operating the camera by himself, handheld most of the time. BTS footage reveals the intensity of the camera operation, operating in a harsh environment by Snyder himself. The rig looks compact, with a friendly form factor for shooting in the middle of the action.

4-part BTS by Zack Snyder

As described by the Netflix Film Club: “In ‘Snyder School,’ Zack Snyder takes us on a four-episode journey into his groundbreaking creative process as a filmmaker”. Also, Snyder adds: “Join me in a 4-part behind the scenes video series on Army of the Dead and filmmaking”. In Episode 1, Zack discusses his approach to creating a title sequence, from storyboard sketches to special effects, in Army of the Dead, as well as 300, Watchmen, and Justice League. Check it out below: