Director Sébastien Vaniček offers insights into his decision to use real spiders instead of CGI in his new horror film, “Infested.” Vaniček explains that understanding the source of fear associated with spiders is crucial to addressing it effectively. By embracing this understanding, he aimed to challenge conventional fears.
Revealing the Spider’s Appeal
Spiders evoke fear largely due to their unpredictable movements. Equipped with eight legs and multiple eyes, they have this directional unpredictability, which Vaniček sought to capture authentically. His debut feature, “Infested,” made waves at the 2023 Venice Film Festival, featuring real spiders to create spine-chilling scares.
A Celebration of Small Creatures
Vaniček expresses a deep fascination with small living organisms, revealing the opportunity to showcase them on the big screen. By magnifying their presence through close-ups, Vaniček aimed to highlight the intricacies and complexities of these creatures, making them accessible and intriguing to viewers.
Plot and Character Dynamics
“Infested” follows Kaleb (played by Théo Christine), a resident of a neglected Parisian high-rise who encounters a rare and dangerous spider. Unbeknownst to him, this spider produces offspring that rapidly grow and overrun the building, trapping its inhabitants inside.
Real Spiders on Set
Contrary to common misconceptions, Vaniček reveals that filming with real spiders was a delicate process. Spiders could only perform for brief intervals before becoming fatigued, so understanding their behaviour was crucial to capturing authentic footage.
Choosing Giant Huntsman Spiders
The film predominantly features giant huntsman spiders due to their recognizable appearance. Vaniček opted for these spiders over tarantulas to maintain a relatable yet unnerving quality, enhancing the fear factor with their swift movements.
Reframing the Spider’s Narrative
In Vaniček’s perspective, the spiders in “Infested” are portrayed as victims rather than aggressors. They defend themselves against attacks and seek refuge in an unfamiliar setting, challenging preconceived notions about their role in the narrative.
In “Infested,” Vaniček offers a fresh perspective on horror filmmaking by leveraging real spiders to evoke genuine fear while exploring profound societal themes within a gripping narrative.
