The limited series “Lockerbie: A Search for Truth,” a collaboration between Sky and Peacock, delves into the tragic events of Pan Am Flight 103, which was destroyed by a terrorist bomb over Lockerbie, Scotland, in 1988. The series captures the immediate aftermath of the disaster, featuring striking visual effects created by REALTIME, under the expertise of visual effects supervisor Sue Land.
Land explains that REALTIME’s work encompassed a wide range of effects, from life-like CGI recreations of the incident to detailed visualizations of corresponding courtroom scenes. The team was tasked with accurately representing the destruction alongside the emotional gravity of the event. A significant challenge was to visualize the town’s layout in relation to various locations involved in the story. To address this, they developed a virtual production tool that utilized Unreal Engine, allowing the director, Otto Bathurst, to effectively scout the locations and visualize scenes dynamically.
Throughout the series, a meticulous approach was taken to blend CGI with real footage. Land shared, “Our remit was, wherever possible it should be real.” Most visual elements that fell from the plane were created digitally, while grounded elements were physically present in scenes. For instance, when visualizing a plane object striking a police car, the original idea of using an in-flight trolley was reconsidered in favor of a more impactful piece that was accurately scanned and integrated into the scene.
A particularly notable moment in the series showcases a massive explosion when a significant section of the fuselage crashes, creating a deep crater and immense fireball. REALTIME’s FX team utilized practical effects while enhancing them digitally to achieve a sense of realism and depth in the explosion effects, making the trauma of the event palpable for viewers.
Land pointed out how the visual storytelling in “Lockerbie: A Search for Truth” was designed to avoid sensationalism, aiming for a respectful and grounded representation of a tragic historical event. The collaborative effort resulted in a series that feels authentic and poignant, focusing on the gravity of the narrative rather than an exaggerated portrayal of the catastrophe.
In a broader context, REALTIME’s work reflects the pivotal role of visual effects in creating immersive and impactful storytelling, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with historical narratives. This series not only serves as a tribute to the tragedy but also highlights the importance of approach and sensitivity in the depiction of real-life events.