Constructing the 1986 Escape

The creative process for Forget Technology was defined by a series of specific logistical and aesthetic choices. When writing the script, we had to decide exactly how to portray a functional 1986 office without sliding into parody. This meant designing period-accurate environments complete with typewriters, desk lamps, and stationery to create a heavy, repetitive atmosphere. The challenge was ensuring the digital set design looked lived-in and professional, providing a grounded backdrop for the story’s progression.

Costume decisions were equally deliberate, with a strict focus on recreating the authentic aesthetic of 1986. We spent time selecting silhouettes that felt true to the mid-80s for our lead characters, whom we’ve named Stefan and Maria. While Stefan begins in a period-correct gray suit to match the office environment, his look evolves along with the narrative. Maria’s wardrobe, featuring bold stripes and oversized yellow earrings, was a strategic decision to provide a sharp contrast to the corporate setting. Every item, from the vintage digital watches to the specific textures of the clothing, was selected to reinforce a cohesive visual identity that bridges our archive with our new material.