In the sci-fi workplace thriller Severance, the characters' mysterious work involves huddled sessions over strange, retrofuturistic computers. These computers, which resemble an alternate reality take on Minesweeper, are not just props – they're functional, and the actors actually use them to refine numbers on set. In an exclusive interview, Adam Scott, who plays Mark and serves as a producer on the show, shared the story behind these unique computers and their impact on the actors' performances.

The computers, designed by prop master Cath Miller and production designer Jeremy Hindle, are a deliberate departure from modern technology. According to Hindle, the goal was to create a playful, experimental feel, as if the characters were part of a psychological study. "We kept thinking, 'If you're experimenting with these people, what would you put in front of them?'” Hindle explained. The result is a nostalgic blend of vintage aesthetics and touchscreen functionality, reminiscent of old Apple IIe computers.

For Scott, using the devices has been a nostalgic experience, evoking memories of his childhood spent using Apple IIe computers with his brother and father. However, the terminals' unique interface, keyboard, and trackball make them tricky to use, requiring the actors to develop their own strategies and meaning. This process of discovery has been essential to the actors' performances, as they, like their characters, are unsure of the true purpose of their work.

"These people have no idea what they're doing," Scott said, highlighting the importance of the computers' functionality in capturing the characters' confusion and uncertainty. By actually using the computers and refining numbers, the actors can better inhabit their roles and bring authenticity to the show. The computers have become an integral part of the actors' process, allowing them to explore the mysteries of Severance alongside their characters.

Severance season 2, which premieres on Apple TV Plus on January 17th, promises to delve deeper into the enigmatic world of Lumon Industries and the characters' strange, computer-driven work. As the show continues to push the boundaries of sci-fi storytelling, the retrofuturistic computers remain a fascinating and integral aspect of its unique atmosphere.

In a world where technology is increasingly sleek and minimalist, the nostalgic, experimental computers of Severance serve as a refreshing reminder of the power of design to shape our experiences and perceptions. As the show's characters navigate the blurred lines between work and life, the computers stand as a testament to the importance of human interaction and understanding in a world dominated by technology.