The season finale of the Apple TV+ series “Smoke” has captivated audiences with its intense storytelling and striking visual artistry. Released in March 2025, this episode brought a powerful conclusion to the intricate narrative of arson investigator Dave Gudsen, portrayed by Taron Egerton, and his complex relationship with partner-turned-pursuer Michelle Calderone, played by Jurnee Smollett. The episode stands out as one of the most haunting and impactful in the series, showcasing the creative talents behind the production.
Cinematographer Francois Dagenais, who filmed over half of the season’s nine episodes, collaborated closely with creator Dennis Lehane and director Joe Chappelle to craft a visually compelling narrative. Dagenais noted that their approach drew inspiration from the legendary work of director William Friedkin and cinematographer Owen Roizman on the 1971 thriller The French Connection. He explained, “We didn’t want to copy the look of it, but we wanted to copy the energy and the feeling.”
Crafting a Vivid Urban Landscape
Dagenais emphasized the importance of using the urban setting to enhance the drama within “Smoke.” He referred to the cinematic techniques of 1970s films, stating, “Something those ’70s movies do that we don’t do as much today is use long lenses to make the city feel much closer to you.” This approach allowed the team to create an immersive experience, framing alleyways and city streets in a way that emphasized their depth and presence.
Lighting played a crucial role in illustrating the characters’ emotional journeys. Dagenais described how the lighting for the character Freddy evolved as he transformed, stating, “At the beginning, we barely see his face. Then he goes for the first real haircut of his life, and we made it brighter because his life is changing.” This subtle change in lighting not only highlighted Freddy’s internal struggle but also enhanced the emotional weight of his eventual downfall.
Overcoming Challenges for Authenticity
In a striking contrast to the realism that defined much of the series, the climactic forest fire scene was filmed entirely on a sound stage. Dagenais expressed concerns about maintaining authenticity, noting, “This show is all about being real, and when you shoot exteriors inside, it’s hard to feel real.” He recognized the challenges posed by the environment, particularly the heat generated by the lights used to simulate the fire.
Despite these hurdles, Dagenais found creative solutions by studying photographs of real forest fires. He noted that even during daylight, smoke can obscure visibility, creating a darker atmosphere. “I was also concerned that the lights would just shut down from the heat,” he said. To address these issues, a technician monitored the heat levels throughout the shoot, ensuring that the lighting remained functional.
Ultimately, Dagenais received praise from his colorist, who remarked that the footage did not reveal it was filmed indoors. “That was the best compliment I could get for what was, for me, a very tricky sequence,” he reflected.
With the conclusion of its season, all episodes of “Smoke” are now available for streaming on Apple TV+. The series has garnered attention not only for its gripping storylines but also for its artistic ambition, setting a high bar for future productions in the genre.