Secret Headquarters Technology Design

However, we didn’t want each piece of technology to be an exact reflection of the orb’s patterns since the Guard was putting his own spin on its creations. Our team researched patterns that appear in the natural world, such as repetitive bubbles, rings on planets, snowflakes and geometric stacking designs. We also studied various types of architecture for a more human-based look. We aimed to develop a pattern that was repeatable, stackable and looked like the Guard’s energy source but is influenced by the real world.

Using our research, we built a framework for everything that could live in a hexagonal design sphere and experimented with how these patterns could be applied to each piece of technology in a unique manner. For example, for our screen shapes, we crafted them to be moveable and flexible so they could be arranged in the shape of these natural patterns.

From there, we plugged our footage into our 3D programs and built the actual elements in the same space as if it was being shot by the film’s camera to start. We built everything in 3D and  created some motion and depth tests to match the camera’s depth of field. We then got our renders out of Cinema4D and added color effects and comped in Adobe After Effects. The last stage included the color pipe for the film and pushing everything into Nuke to composite and render. Lastly, our designs were color graded and sent to DI for the final edit.

As we honed in on our design, we conducted motion tests to develop the fluidity of the holograms. We used these motion tests to align with the actors’ gestures, letting each screen show how user compatible it is.

Based on our motion tests, we solidified the holograms to truly be entirely interactive with the ability to be moved, touched and spun to reveal more information and details. Each hologram is based on an orange color pattern, like the source itself, and includes hints and reflections of the hexagonal pattern.

Towards the end of the film, the headquarters is close to being taken over and overrun. As the villains from Argon infiltrate the headquarters, we see various holograms that they examine to get a better idea of who this headquarters belongs to and where the owner currently is.

We conducted several motion tests to map out the best course of movement to display and shift each piece of information throughout the HUD.

Since this is a more light-hearted film, we wanted to play around with various details and Easter eggs that the Guard could be viewing. Still based in hexagonal forms, our team included background statistics and metrics seen in the UI, such as oxygen and methane levels. We also experimented with some more playful details, including current music tracks that the Guard could be listening to, along with a warning of high levels of feet smell!

This screen is a touch pad that features alien typography and sample icons of what can be printed. This feature is used in the beginning of the film to demonstrate how the Guard made his suit.

At the end of the film, we see the 3D printing screen become glitchy and dysfunctional. Our team also created this glitch effect for the interface.

Our team conceptualized the system lock holograms, along with the access code hologram to demonstrate the progression, failure, and eventual success of the children testing each possible code. We conducted motion tests to lock down the speed and timing of these holograms.

Since this is such a tense scene that involves quick thinking from the children, our holograms were steady and unwavering, but moving incredibly quickly in order to reflect the sense of urgency and desperation from the situation.

We then moved onto motion tests that would reflect pre-filmed footage of the children interacting with the blank screen. This helped perfect timing and coordinated buttons and functions to where the actors had already interacted with the empty interface while filming.

Since these screens are meant to be used while the Guard is driving, their functions were designed to be easy to read with a glance while still staying true to the look of the rest of the Guard’s technology.

We developed his technology with CIA influences and a complex, utilitarian aesthetic. Since Argon is trying to secretly take down the Guard, we wanted this technology to feel as if it was a bit underground, reflective of secret-service interfaces.

These screens share the same blue and gray color palette and military grid system. Everything about Argon’s technology is direct, practical and tactical, even in its mobile form.

We experimented with different layouts and styles before landing on our final direction.

We also crafted the technology inspired globe seen behind Argon.

See more of our contributions to Secret Headquarters in our Secret Headquarters Title Design case study – coming soon!