Director Brian Duffield discussed building life-sized whale stomach sets for 'Whalefall,' including multiple models constructed by Weta Workshop in New Zealand and parts built in California due to size constraints. The 12-foot-tall, 18-foot-long whale head was manufactured by StudioArt & Technology, with visual effects supervisor Guillaume Rocheron rigging LED lighting to create bioluminescence in the stomach environment.
Duffield described the logistical difficulties of shooting in a confined whale stomach set, noting that every department had to coordinate closely. The set included water and required cameras, lighting, and actors to operate within a small space. Austin Abrams was placed inside the set with an oxygen tank, while crew members simulated the whale's chewing motions to create tension during filming.
Josh Brolin's performance as Jay's father, Mitt Gardiner, was influenced by his emotional reaction to Daniel Kraus' novel. Brolin stated that reading the book moved him to portray Mitt as a complex character rather than a clichéd figure, emphasizing the father-son relationship's depth. The film explores themes of masculinity and emotional closure through this dynamic.
Duffield cited films like 'JFK' and 'Cloud Atlas' as influences on his approach to crafting the thriller, according to the article. He noted that the practical realities of filming in confined spaces sometimes required using all 36 frames of a take due to technical limitations, highlighting the film's unique production hurdles.