DP Jonathan Furmanski on Creating the Voyeuristic Aesthetic of Peacock’s Keke Palmer-Led “The ‘Burbs”

Peacock’s reboot of ‘The ‘Burbs’ brings a fresh twist to the classic black comedy that originally starred Tom Hanks. Keke Palmer takes the lead role as Samira, a former litigator who uncovers the mystery behind her new suburban neighborhood. Moving into a house with a dark past and strange neighbors sets the stage for a thrilling mix of drama and humor.

Filmed at Universal Studios in Los Angeles, the series captures the essence of the original while adding modern flair. Cinematographer Jonathan Furmanski’s vision for the show was inspired by the original film’s unique blend of satire and suspense, as well as the colorful aesthetics of films like ‘Nope’ and ‘Get Out.’

Furmanski opted for a wider aspect ratio to emphasize the interconnectedness of the characters in the neighborhood. The use of oversized windows and digital screens added to the feeling of constant surveillance, highlighting the lack of privacy in Samira’s world.

To convey Samira’s emotions and isolation, Furmanski employed camera techniques like zooms and subtle movements. The nighttime scenes in the series drew inspiration from films by Jordan Peele, creating a visual contrast between moonlight and tungsten light for a vibrant yet eerie atmosphere.

Flashback scenes to the past were subtly altered with a Kodachrome film emulation, giving a nostalgic touch to the visual storytelling. Filming at Universal Studios provided a familiar backdrop for the production team, with iconic locations like Tom Hanks’s house and the Victorian home adding historical depth to the series.

Overall, the reboot of ‘The ‘Burbs’ promises an intriguing mix of mystery, humor, and suburban intrigue, brought to life by a talented cast and crew dedicated to capturing the essence of the original while adding new layers of depth and excitement.