HEARTSTOPPER 2 // NETFLIX
Everyone who knows me is well aware that the past two years spent working on Heartstopper have been a highlight of my career. I'm incredibly proud of the design work we accomplished and even prouder collaborating with the most dedicated creative team in television. Our industry consistently holds a touch of magic in every corner.
When I consider the intensive process of crafting television, one aspect stands out: the laughter that filled our offices. For me, creating Heartstopper has been a journey filled with laughter; I've chuckled uncontrollably to the point of having sore cheeks and tears streaming down my face! We made bold decisions, wrangled budgets, and deliberated over every visual choice to ensure that we stayed true to Alice's illustrations and our design format for the show.
Back during the preparation for Season 1, I recognised the significant nature of this project and the importance of getting the Set Decoration just right. At our initial read-through, I asked a million questions to attempt to begin to capture Alice's visual style in every possible way. For me, the essence of Set Decoration is best captured when translating the script's subtext into tangible on-screen dressing. This allows the action to take charge and exist synonymously within an environment.
A distinct memory from Season 1 stands out: a moment while driving home from the Set. I felt the weight of how much impact this show could have on the broader LGBT+ community. It's a unique sensation to possess knowledge about a show yet to be unveiled. Everything remains hushed, preventing you from sharing the upcoming plans. Then, when the show finally airs, the world changes, and a new chapter begins.
Our sets underwent an on-screen transformation, paralleling the growth of our characters. Season 1 laid the groundwork, allowing us to stretch and embrace the aesthetic in Season 2. Every choice, from fabrics to cushions, from school bags to lamps, was made deliberately. We added personal touches, such as marking height notches on Charlie's bedroom door and hand-painting motifs on Elle's furniture. These sets aren't just any old stage; they're a testament to all of us, forming a part of Queer history. The sets have a distinct queer energy, demanding meticulous attention to detail.
This show has had a global impact, and from my corner north of London, it has significantly enhanced my life. Back in 2008, an 18-year-old named Maxwell dreamed of working in television. Now, armed with an Emmy Award-winning series and cherished memories, I bid farewell, primed and charged to embrace new opportunities.
I'm grateful to Netflix, SeeSaw, Alice, Patrick, Tim, Euros, Zorana, and Carys for the opportunity to contribute to this captivating world.
