Netflix's pleasant surprise, The Old Guard, seems to be making strides in more ways than just its viewership numbers. Alongside the film's praise from critics and audiences alike, it is also notable for sporting a post-production crew comprised of 85% women.
The Old Guard, based on the comic of the same name, features Charlize Theron and KiKi Layne co-starring as part of a group of immortal mercenaries. Theron's character, Andy, is the seasoned veteran opposite Layne who plays Nile, the newcomer to the group. A film showcasing supernatural warriors who heal from every injury would likely require some finesse from its VFX and post-production crew, and they certainly deliver.
Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood (who sets yet another milestone for the film as the first Black woman to direct a comic book movie), The Old Guard owes much of its praise to its production team. This team includes such heavy hitters as visual effects supervisor Sara Bennett (Oscar winner in VFX for 2014's Ex Machina), special effects supervisor (yes, they're different things) Hayley Williams who is known for her work on Annihilation and 2005's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory adaptation, and costume designer Mary Vogt, a long-time Hollywood fixture who designed the costumes in films ranging from Crazy Rich Asians all the way back to Hocus Pocus and even the original Naked Gun.
Naturally, those 4 aren't the only notable crew members, women or otherwise, and this wasn't just a happy accident. According to director Gina Prince-Bythewood, it was a collective decision to bring on a diverse team to make the film. Aside from the comparatively low number of women behind the scenes of popular movies, she also knew that quality wouldn't be sacrificed just because they were prioritizing hiring more women. "There are so many women out there who are so good at what they do," she said, "but they just haven't gotten the chance. Their being on my crew, being a part of the film, makes the film better."
The Old Guard has unambiguously proven to be a success for Netflix, and perhaps its near universal praise could convince other studios to branch out and diversify their casts and crews more. Prince-Blythewood made a point to thank Patty Jenkins, director of Wonder Woman, for accomplishing this to a degree with her own film's positive reception, and even influencing The Old Guard's production company, Skydance, to prioritize hiring a woman as its director.
It's also worth noting that the setting and world of The Old Guard allows for more stories to be told in that universe, which Netflix is all but sure to pursue as soon as they can. So sure, diversity can make a great film, but maybe it can also launch an entire franchise.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter