Explained — Who’s On It And What They Do

Last updated Aug. 3, 2024 by Okechukwu Nkemdirim

Explained — Who’s On It And What They Do

Behind the scenes of any successful show, there’s an intricate web of talents, skills, and organization. “Explained,” Netflix’s highly acclaimed docuseries, is a paragon of such collaborative efforts. It takes viewers on a deep dive into various global issues, historical events, scientific phenomena, and more, offering concise yet comprehensive explanations in each episode. To truly appreciate the complexity and value this show brings, it’s essential to understand who’s involved and what they each bring to the table.

Executive Producers: The Visionaries

Executive producers are the giants who dream up the big picture. They not only conceive the show’s theme but also bring together the team to make it happen. For "Explained," the executive producers include Ezra Klein, Joe Posner, and Claire Gordon. Their roles aren’t just confined to the pre-production phase; they oversee the project from inception to final edits, ensuring it aligns with the intended vision. They make critical decisions about episode topics, formats, and even the talent that gets involved.

Showrunners: The General Managers

Showrunners bridge the gap between creative vision and logistical realities. In the case of "Explained," showrunners coordinate between different departments, resolve conflicts, and make sure that every cog in the machine is functioning smoothly. They play a significant role in script revisions, budget management, and post-production processes. The showrunner is often a primary point of communication for the entire team, making sure that everyone is on the same page.

Directors: The Storytellers

Directors are the storytellers who bring each episode to life on the small screen. They handle the aesthetic and narrative aspects, transforming scripts into visually compelling stories. Directors decide on shot compositions, guide the film crew, and work with editors to ensure the final cut is both engaging and informative. Each episode of "Explained" may feature different directors, thereby bringing a fresh perspective to each topic.

Writers: The Architects of Information

Writers in "Explained" perform the critical task of shaping complex topics into digestible narratives. They have the unenviable job of simplifying intricate subjects without losing their essence. Research is a huge part of their work, followed by scripting episodes that both educate and entertain. They must factor in how visual elements will complement the spoken word, whether it’s through graphics, interviews, or video snippets.

Researchers: The Fact-Checkers

Research is the backbone of any documentary series, and "Explained" is no exception. Researchers dive deep into each topic, gathering data, interviewing experts, and verifying facts. Their meticulous work ensures that the information presented is accurate and reliable. They often collaborate closely with writers to form a coherent, insightful narrative that speaks the truth.

Cinematographers: The Visual Craftsmen

Cinematographers or directors of photography (DPs) are responsible for capturing the visual essence of "Explained." By choosing the right angles, lighting, and camera techniques, they add a visual flair that keeps viewers engaged. Their work goes beyond standard filming; sometimes, it involves shooting in different locations, using drones, or incorporating CGI elements to make abstract concepts tangible.

Editors: The Magicians of Post-Production

Editors are the unsung heroes in any documentary series. They take raw footage and turn it into a polished, engaging episode. This involves cutting unnecessary content, adding music, and often working closely with the director to achieve the desired tone and pace. They also integrate animations, graphs, and other visual aids that make complex information easier to understand.

Graphic Designers and Animators: The Visual Educators

Explaining complex subjects often requires more than just words and filmed footage; that’s where graphic designers and animators come in. They create infographics, animations, and visual effects that help clarify complex topics and keep the audience engaged. Their work is critical in breaking down complicated data into easy-to-understand visual elements.

Voice-over Artists: The Narrators

The voice of the series can significantly influence how the information is perceived. Well-known personalities like Kristen Bell, LeVar Burton, and others have lent their voices to "Explained." Their tone, pacing, and clarity help retain viewers’ attention and make the content more enjoyable.

Sound Engineers: The Acoustic Masters

Sound engineers ensure that the audio quality is top-notch. This includes everything from the clarity of spoken words to the background score and sound effects. Good sound engineering can make or break an episode, as poor audio quality can disengage viewers.

Music Composers: The Mood Setters

Music can set the tone and mood of the episode. Whether it’s an upbeat jingle or a somber score, the music complements the narrative and keeps viewers emotionally engaged. Composers work in harmony with editors and directors to ensure that the musical elements align with the show’s overall pacing and tone.

Production Assistants: The Unsung Heroes

Last but not least, production assistants (PAs) are the glue that holds the entire operation together. They assist in various tasks such as logistics, scheduling, and even contributing to research. Though they may not always receive the spotlight, their work is indispensable to the seamless production of each episode.

Guest Experts: The Specialists

In many episodes, "Explained" invites guest experts who offer deeper insights into the subject matter. These experts, ranging from scientists to historians, provide credibility and enrich the narrative with specialized knowledge. Their interviews often form the backbone of an episode, offering perspectives that the general audience may not be privy to.

The Collaborative Process

The production of an "Explained" episode is a collaborative process that involves multiple rounds of revisions, feedback sessions, and iterations. From the initial pitch to the final cut, every team member plays a crucial role in shaping the episode. Weekly meetings, detailed schedules, and constant communication ensure that everyone is aligned with the project’s vision and goals.

FAQs about "Explained"

Q: How are topics for "Explained" chosen?
A: Topics are usually selected by the executive producers in collaboration with writers and researchers. They consider current events, audience interest, and the potential for educational content.

Q: How long does it take to produce one episode?
A: The production timeline for one episode can vary, but it typically ranges from a few weeks to several months from pre-production to final edit.

Q: Are the experts featured in "Explained" vetted?
A: Yes, all experts featured in the series are thoroughly vetted for their credibility and expertise in the subject matter.

Q: How is the accuracy of the information ensured?
A: Researchers and writers collaborate to verify facts, consult experts, and use reliable sources. Additionally, multiple rounds of reviews and edits make sure that the content is accurate.

Q: Who decides the visual style of each episode?
A: The directors, in collaboration with cinematographers and editors, decide the visual style. It is also influenced by the show’s overall aesthetic and the specific needs of the episode.

Q: Are there multiple directors for "Explained"?
A: Yes, different episodes often have different directors, which allows for a variety of styles and perspectives in the series.

Q: Can the public suggest topics for future episodes?
A: While there’s no formal process for public topic suggestions, audience feedback is often considered when planning future seasons.

Q: Is the show available in multiple languages?
A: Yes, "Explained" is available in multiple languages to cater to a global audience, with subtitles and dubbing as options.

Q: How do the voice-over artists get selected?
A: Voice-over artists are chosen based on their ability to effectively communicate the information, their clarity, and sometimes their celebrity status to attract viewers.

Q: How important are animations and graphics in the show?
A: Animations and graphics are essential for simplifying complex topics and making the content more engaging and understandable.

“Explained” is much more than just a TV show; it’s a comprehensive production that brings together talents from various fields to create an educational yet entertaining experience. From executive producers to sound engineers, each role is pivotal in bringing the show to life, making it a reliable source of information and a joy to watch.