Director Dave Rogers Discusses His Work on Prime Video’s Hit Comedy Series Upload

We had the opportunity to catch up with director, executive producer, and editor Dave Rogers, known for his work on popular shows like The Office and Parks and Recreation, to discuss his outstanding contributions to Prime Video’s highest-rated comedy series, Upload. Rogers shares insights into the making of this ambitious show created by Greg Daniels and delves into the technical intricacies of episode five, which he directed.

The Making of Episode Five

In episode five, Rogers faced the challenge of shooting Robbie Amell in dual roles as Upload Nathan and Download Nathan. He reveals the tactics and tricks used to accomplish this, along with the extensive amount of time it takes to prepare an episode for streaming. Rogers also highlights the incredible versatility of the cast and discusses other aspects of the show.

The Timeline of Episode Production

Although Upload falls under the genre of workplace comedy, it incorporates a significant amount of visual effects to bring its world to life. Rogers explains the timeline for completing an episode, from pre-production to post-production. He emphasizes that Upload requires a longer timeline compared to shows like The Office, which could have scenes shot and aired within days.

The Episode Five Scene

Episode five marks the pivotal moment when the two Nathans finally meet. Rogers shares the thought process behind crafting this scene, including discussions about whether the meeting should happen face-to-face or through video chat. He highlights the shock and intrigue surrounding this encounter, as well as the dynamics and chemistry between the two versions of Nathan.

Shooting the Two Nathans

Rogers breaks down the process of shooting scenes with both Nathans in the same frame. He explains the various techniques used to present them individually before bringing them together, such as locked frames, split screens, and camera movement. Rogers also mentions the challenges of shooting scenes with the two Nathans, including the need for double the shooting time and managing costume changes.

The Talented Cast

Rogers praises the entire cast of Upload, including Owen Daniels and Allegra Edwards. He commends their comedic instincts and improvisational skills, highlighting their ability to enhance scenes with their creative input. Rogers expresses admiration for actors’ talent and their impact on the overall production.

Conclusion

Season three of Upload is currently available for streaming on Prime Video. With Rogers’ insightful commentary, fans gain a deeper understanding of the show’s production process and the dedication behind creating a top-rated comedy series.