Australian television show “Heartbreak High”, a reboot of the popular 1994-1999 series, has been color graded using DaVinci Resolve Studio. The new series, airing globally on Netflix, follows a fresh cast of teenagers and their lives, aiming to capture the spirit of the original while introducing a contemporary feel.
Colorist's Approach
Fergus Rotherham, a Sydney-based freelance colorist with extensive experience in both commercial and film projects, was tasked with creating the visual look for “Heartbreak High.” His goal was to blend nostalgia with modernity, preserving the gritty texture of the original while adding a playful contemporary edge. Rotherham worked closely with the directors of photography, Simon Ozolins and Drew English, during preproduction to design a show LUT using DaVinci Resolve Studio.
Efficiency in Post-Production
Rotherham utilized various features of DaVinci Resolve Studio throughout the post-production process. He found the software’s management tools and time-saving efficiencies particularly helpful, especially given the fast-paced nature of the production. Features such as curves, stills management, timeline sorting, and multiple-source recording were instrumental in ensuring a consistent look across all episodes.
Key Tools for Consistency
The HDR grading wheels and split-screen comparison tools were frequently used to maintain visual consistency and adjust contrast. Rotherham also relied on the shared node and append node functionalities, mapped to his keyboard for quick scene adjustments. Additionally, he incorporated various OFX plugins within Resolve to achieve specific effects like disorientation and enhanced lighting setups.
Post-production was completed through Blue Post in Sydney, with the final series delivered in 4K HDR Dolby Vision format. The combination of DaVinci Resolve Studio’s advanced features and Rotherham’s expertise ensured that “Heartbreak High” captured both the essence of its predecessor and a fresh, modern sensibility.