Mexico City, Mexico – Issa López’s journey to creating the latest installment of “True Detective” was fueled by a lifelong passion for horror movies. As a child growing up in Mexico City, López was given a coffee table book filled with still photographs from horror films. One particular image, of a grotesque creature from “The Thing,” captivated her. This moment sparked her curiosity to watch the movie, which left a lasting impact on her.
López’s fascination with “The Thing” eventually led her to helm “True Detective: Night Country,” the fourth season of the widely acclaimed anthology series. Set in the Far North region of Alaska, the show follows two detectives, played by Jodie Foster and Kali Reis, as they investigate a string of gruesome murders at a desolate scientific research station.
Embracing the dark and claustrophobic ambiance of the Arctic region, López set the show during the sunless winter months, where natural light is absent. The perpetual darkness creates an inescapable sense of foreboding, adding to the tension and horror that permeates the series.
López acknowledges the similarities between her show and “The Thing,” and instead of shying away from the connection, she fully embraces it. By referencing the iconic film, she adds her own twist to the supernatural elements in “True Detective: Night Country.”
To capture the bleakness and harshness of the Arctic, López enlisted the help of cinematographer Florian Hoffmeister, known for his work on the Arctic-themed “The Terror.” Together, they aimed to create a visually stunning and unsettling atmosphere, drawing inspiration from the horror genre while infusing their own unique vision.
Beyond “The Thing,” López also drew inspiration from other chilling works, including David Fincher’s “Se7en” and Denis Villeneuve’s “Sicario.” She used music to set the mood, incorporating Billie Eilish’s haunting song “Bury a Friend” as the theme song for “Night Country.”
Filming “Night Country” posed numerous challenges, as it took place in Iceland during the winter months when daylight is limited. The cast and crew had to contend with freezing temperatures and the continuous darkness, adding a layer of authenticity to their performances. Despite the difficulties, López and her team were committed to capturing the essence of the Arctic and the sense of isolation and danger it evokes.
As the season progresses, the sense of dread intensifies in Ennis, Alaska. With subtle and not-so-subtle references to “The Thing” throughout the show, López pays homage to the film that inspired her while crafting her own gripping and chilling narrative.
Ultimately, “True Detective: Night Country” is a testament to López’s love for horror and her desire to create a suspenseful and memorable viewing experience. By embracing the darkness and the surreal, she has crafted a unique addition to the “True Detective” series that stands on its own.