How Variety’s Power of Women Visuals Are Made

A recent episode of Variety’s Daily Variety podcast offered listeners a behind-the-scenes look at two distinct but equally compelling aspects of the entertainment industry: the intricate process behind Variety’s stunning Power of Women visuals and a peek into the upcoming, potentially “disgusting” second season of the HBO Max series, “The Pitt.” The podcast featured insights from Variety’s creative director, Haley Kluge, and visual director, Jennifer Dorn, alongside an update from Marc Malkin on the medical drama.

The Artistry Behind Variety’s Power of Women Visuals

Each year, Variety’s Power of Women initiative captivates audiences with its striking visual campaigns, a testament to the collaborative vision of Haley Kluge and Jennifer Dorn. These two women are instrumental in crafting the magazine’s acclaimed covers, which not only stand alone as individual pieces but also coalesce into a cohesive panoramic image.

A Holistic Creative Process

For Kluge, the creative director, the Power of Women covers present a unique challenge compared to traditional standalone issues. She emphasizes the importance of viewing the five cover images in a “holistic sense,” ensuring they work together harmoniously. Her role involves transforming Jennifer Dorn’s accomplished photography into what she describes as “posters” or “pieces of art.” This often means integrating architectural elements from the shooting location and employing a strong typeface, such as Gradient Gothic, to create a compelling contrast with the softer, more feminine photography and wardrobe choices.

The Trust in Visual Storytelling

Jennifer Dorn, who has been at the helm of Variety’s photography since 2018, understands the significant trust placed in her and her team by the prominent figures featured on the covers. She acknowledges that elaborate photo shoots can be a considerable demand for individuals who are constantly in the public eye. Dorn takes this responsibility seriously, ensuring that the final visuals do justice to the subjects. The culmination of their efforts is a collaborative achievement, resulting in the impactful imagery that defines the Power of Women feature annually.

“The Pitt” Season 2: A Glimpse into the “Disgusting”

Beyond the world of glossy magazine covers, the podcast also delved into the grittier realities of television production with an update on HBO Max’s “The Pitt.” Reporter Marc Malkin recently caught up with stars Noah Wyle and Katherine LaNasa at a charity event in Los Angeles on October 28. The Emmy-winning actors are currently deep in filming for the second season of the medical drama.

Intense and Heartbreaking Portrayals

During their conversation, LaNasa offered a candid, albeit darkly humorous, description of what awaits viewers in “The Pitt” Season 2. She characterized the medical procedures and situations portrayed in the series as “thoroughly disgusting,” reiterating the sentiment for emphasis. Beyond the visceral, LaNasa also described the upcoming season’s content as “disturbing” and “heartbreaking,” indicating that the show will continue to explore the intense emotional toll on medical professionals. This glimpse suggests that the new season aims to maintain its impactful and realistic depiction of hospital life.

Conclusion

From the meticulous artistry behind Variety’s Power of Women visuals, championed by Haley Kluge and Jennifer Dorn, to the raw and “disgusting” dramatic portrayals promised in Season 2 of “The Pitt” by Katherine LaNasa, the entertainment industry continues to offer a spectrum of compelling content. These insights highlight the dedication and vision of the professionals who work both behind and in front of the camera, shaping the stories and images that engage audiences. Listeners can find these discussions and more on the Daily Variety podcast, available on various platforms including iHeartPodcasts, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Spotify, and Variety’s YouTube Podcast channel.