Brad Bird takes us behind the scenes of Ray Gunns massive sci-fi city

In the upcoming sci-fi film Ray Gunn, the city of Metropia serves as the primary setting, stealing the show with its retro-futuristic architecture and bustling atmosphere. Before the movie even begins, viewers are treated to an exhilarating introduction to Metropia, as the film's opening sequence whisks audiences through the canyons between the city's mile-high buildings.

With flying cars, elevated trains, and even jetpacks offering quick travel options, Metropia provides both convenience and excitement for its residents. The film's creator, Brad Bird, recognized the importance of Metropia from the very beginning, describing it as a "gargantuan jewel that stretches into the heavens" and emphasizing that the city itself is a crucial character in the story.

Bird and his team aimed to combine influences from early 20th century architect Hugh Ferriss, known for his tall, stepped buildings, with Streamline Moderne, a sleeker Art Deco style that emerged in the 1930s. By blending these two design elements, the team created a unique visual style that sets Metropia apart from any other city on screen.

The film's VFX team faced the daunting challenge of building Metropia without creating a full digital model, instead focusing on constructing key parts of the city to match specific scenes. This approach allowed the team to adapt to the story's needs and create a believable, thriving metropolis.