In her latest endeavor, production designer Ruth Ammon brings a vivid authenticity to Pachinko Season 2 (both seasons streaming on Apple TV+), transforming historical settings into immersive storytelling. Based on Min Jin Lee's novel, the series explores intertwined Korean and Japanese histories, mostly through the lens of Koreans struggling to be seen as equals since World War II. Ammon, enlisted by showrunner Soo Hugh, embraced the complexity of designing for multiple eras, locations and socioeconomic status, crafting a world that feels both expansive and intimate. Despite the formidable challenges, Ammon describes the experience as one of the most creatively fulfilling of her career.
“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” introduces a fresh chapter in the storied franchise, bringing an emotional depth to its exploration of a post-apocalyptic world ruled by intelligent apes. The film stars Owen Teague as Cornelius, our new protagonist ape, who must navigate the balance between ape society's survival and its ideological divides. Joining Teague is an ensemble cast featuring Freya Allan (Maya), Peter Macon (Proximus Caesar), Eka Darville (Koba’s Heir), and Kevin Durand (Gunner).
Director Wes Ball spoke with Awards Focus about his creative process, the challenges of directing a legacy franchise, and how he sought to expand the emotional and visual landscape of the Apes universe. He delved into the film’s exploration of power dynamics, the evolving definition of civilization, and the personal stakes embedded in the characters’ arcs.
