When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it disrupted countless TV productions. For The Blacklist, this meant rethinking how to deliver a satisfying season 7 finale while adhering to safety protocols. Their solution? A groundbreaking animated finale that blended live-action footage with animation, offering fans a truly unique viewing experience.
1. The Challenge of Completing Season 7
Production Halted Midstream
In early 2020, production on The Blacklist came to a screeching halt due to the pandemic. With only a portion of the finale filmed, the team had to brainstorm a creative solution.
A Race Against Time
The showrunners faced the daunting task of finishing the finale while ensuring it met the high expectations of Blacklist fans.
2. Why Animation Was the Perfect Choice
Breaking Boundaries with Innovation
Rather than shelving the episode or leaving it incomplete, the team turned to animation to bridge the gap. This creative pivot not only solved their problem but also introduced a fresh way to tell their story.
A Seamless Blend
The finale combined live-action scenes already filmed with animation that captured the essence of the characters and story.
3. The Making of the Animated Finale
Collaboration Across Teams
The animation process required collaboration between the show’s writers, directors, and animation specialists to ensure the storyline remained cohesive.
Capturing the Characters
Voice actors recorded their lines from home, while animators worked tirelessly to recreate the characters’ expressions and mannerisms.
4. Fans React to the Animated Finale
A Mixed Bag of Emotions
The innovative finale received a mix of praise and surprise from fans. Some lauded the show’s creativity, while others found the animation a jarring departure from the norm.
Trending on Social Media
Hashtags like #BlacklistAnimated trended on Twitter, as fans shared their thoughts and excitement.
5. How the Animation Enhanced the Storyline
Adding a New Dimension
The animated segments allowed the show to explore scenes that might have been difficult to film in live-action, adding depth to the storyline.
Visual Creativity
The animation team infused the episode with striking visuals that heightened the suspense and drama.
6. Key Moments from the Finale
Unanswered Questions
The finale left viewers with plenty of questions, setting the stage for season 8. What’s next for Raymond Reddington and Liz Keen?
Memorable Scenes
Fans praised the animated sequences for their artistry, particularly a tense showdown that wouldn’t have been possible in live-action.
7. The Impact of COVID-19 on TV Production
A New Era of Storytelling
The pandemic forced many TV shows to think outside the box, and The Blacklist is a shining example of how adversity can spark creativity.
What Other Shows Can Learn
The success of the animated finale demonstrates the potential for hybrid storytelling methods in future productions.
8. What’s Next for The Blacklist
Season 8 on the Horizon
Fans eagerly await the next season, wondering how the show will follow up on the ambitious season 7 finale.
Will Animation Return?
Could we see more animated episodes in the future? While unlikely, the finale proved it’s a viable option when needed.
9. Behind the Scenes: Insights from the Cast and Crew
Cast Reflections
The actors shared their excitement about the animated finale, with many praising the showrunners for their ingenuity.
Creative Challenges
Showrunner Jon Bokenkamp revealed that the decision to animate was both challenging and rewarding, marking a highlight in the show’s history.
10. How to Watch the Season 7 Finale
Streaming Options
Missed the animated finale? You can catch it on platforms like Netflix or NBC’s streaming service.
A Unique Viewing Experience
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the show, this finale is a must-watch for its innovation alone.
Conclusion: A Bold Move That Paid Off
The animated finale of The Blacklist season 7 is a testament to the power of creativity in the face of challenges. By thinking outside the box, the team delivered a unique and unforgettable experience that will be remembered as a highlight in the show’s legacy. As fans eagerly anticipate what’s next for Reddington and his crew, one thing is clear: The Blacklist isn’t afraid to take risks—and that’s what makes it great.
FAQs
1. Why did The Blacklist use animation for the season 7 finale?
The COVID-19 pandemic halted production, prompting the team to use animation to complete the episode.
2. How was the animated finale received by fans?
Reactions were mixed, with many praising the creativity while others found it an unexpected shift.
3. Will future episodes of The Blacklist include animation?
While there’s no confirmation, the success of this experiment shows it’s a possibility in unique circumstances.
4. Where can I watch the animated finale?
The finale is available on streaming platforms like Netflix and NBC’s app.
5. What’s next for The Blacklist after this unique finale?
Season 8 will continue the story, picking up where the animated finale left off.
