Director Louis Leterrier has revealed that his upcoming Netflix sci-fi thriller, "The Last House," was secretly shot with IMAX projection in mind. Leterrier, known for orchestrating large-scale action in films like "The Transporter" and "The Incredible Hulk," found a different kind of challenge in "The Last House," which centers on a family trapped inside their home by a mysterious paranormal event.
Leterrier described the initial script as a strong foundation that allowed for creative freedom within the confined setting of the house. "What was interesting for me was to stay within the box slightly, never breaking out of the confines of the four walls of this house," he explained. The narrative evolves from physical survival to psychological and emotional endurance, a progression Leterrier aimed to mirror in the film’s visual style.
To achieve a desired aesthetic reminiscent of "dark Amblin movies of the '80s," such as "Poltergeist" and "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial," Leterrier opted for a dual-camera approach. The early portions of the film were shot on 35mm film using anamorphic lenses similar to those used on "Raiders of the Lost Ark." This was a departure from Netflix's typical digital-first strategy. Following a five-year time jump in the story, the production shifted to high-end digital sensors but employed older lenses from the 1960s to maintain a textured, slightly uncanny visual quality.
Leterrier stated that he shot the film to be projected in IMAX, viewing it as a long-term investment. "Movies are forever, so give your best. Shoot your best negative," he remarked.
The director also discussed the practical challenges and creative rewards of working within a contained universe and budget, which he felt allowed him to "push the limit and ask real questions." He found the experience personally resonant, seeing his own fears and responsibilities as a father reflected in the story.
Despite its contained nature, the film features ambitious sequences, including scenes shot in a large water tank. Leterrier, who admits to enjoying working in water, aimed for a genre-bending narrative that expands in scope. He compared the experience to his work on "Fast X," where he took over directorial duties mid-production.
"The Last House" is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on August 7. Leterrier is also set to return to blockbuster filmmaking with "Fast Forever." He expressed that his experience on "The Last House" was a valuable one, allowing him to explore a different style of filmmaking.
Leterrier noted that the film's budget was neither large nor small, but a medium size that allowed for creative stretching within its defined boundaries. This type of filmmaking, he feels, is essential for movies that "talk about us more than just superheroes and gods."