Directing the Dreamscape: Jessica Gagné on Crafting Severance‘s Pivotal “Chikhai Bardo” Episode
Jessica Gagné, a rising force in television directing, recently delivered a standout episode of the critically acclaimed series Severance. “Chikhai Bardo,” a visually stunning and emotionally resonant installment, has quickly become a fan favorite and a focal point of discussion. It’s a testament to her bold vision and willingness to embrace challenging material.
Gagné’s journey to directing this pivotal episode wasn’t without its hurdles. She initially felt apprehension about tackling such a complex and deeply personal narrative.Though, she ultimately recognized the profound opportunity it presented.
Embracing the Unconventional
The episode delves into the spiritual and emotional connections between characters,exploring themes of identity and the search for meaning. It’s a departure from the show’s typically sterile and corporate aesthetic. Gagné embraced this shift, leaning into a more dreamlike and visually evocative style.
I’ve found that the most rewarding projects are often the ones that push you outside of your comfort zone. This episode certainly did that, and the result was incredibly fulfilling.
Here’s what made “Chikhai Bardo” stand out:
A Unique Viewpoint: The episode intentionally centers a female point of view, offering a fresh lens on the show’s core themes.
Visual Storytelling: Gagné’s direction prioritizes visual cues and symbolism, creating a deeply immersive experience for the viewer.
Emotional Resonance: The episode taps into worldwide emotions of longing, connection, and the search for self.
Overcoming Initial Hesitations
Gagné admits she initially had to persuade herself to fully commit to the episode’s challenging subject matter. She was drawn to the thematic richness, notably the exploration of how people connect and the power of spiritual bonds.
Ultimately, she realized that confronting her own fears was essential to unlocking the episode’s full potential. This willingness to be vulnerable is evident in the final product.
The Power of Momentum
The overwhelmingly positive response to “Chikhai Bardo” has been both humbling and inspiring for Gagné. She’s persistent to build on this success and continue pursuing projects that resonate with her artistic vision.
She now feels empowered to embrace challenging narratives and push creative boundaries.this newfound confidence is a direct result of the experience.
“I would have never believed this was a possibility,” Gagné reflects. “Now,I just have to keep doing it.”
Gagné’s work on Severance* is a powerful reminder that taking risks and embracing vulnerability can lead to truly extraordinary results.Her future projects are undoubtedly ones to watch.







