Old Lanterns, New Tricks:
High-Tech Retrofits in Action
The project involved retrofitting multiple classic 3-way railroad lanterns provided by the show's property department. Each direction needed to be independently dimmable using high-powered COB LEDs, with wireless control and battery power. To achieve this, our Pager 6-channel CRMX decoders were used to control the selected COB LEDs.
Adaptive on Demand
Some scenes required the lanterns to cast a convincing spotlight on the set. For over-the-shoulder shots, the beam spread could be adjusted by removing the fresnel lenses (not depicted) and swapping the internal reflectors for different spread angles. Additionally, the lanterns were designed to function independently without a transmitter when needed.
Seamless Control,
Unrestricted Mobility
This wireless control system allowed seamless adjustments on set, while the battery power ensured full mobility without the need for external cables.
Flame Without the Fuss
Several oil lamps were retrofitted with custom two-channel LED arrays, blending classic aesthetics with modern lighting technology. Using our Gumstick 2-channel CRMX decoders, the amber and tungsten diodes create a lifelike flame effect. The built-in flicker generator offers multiple flame presets, allowing for easy adjustments to match the scene’s mood. Even if the CRMX signal is lost, the animation continues uninterrupted, ensuring a seamless performance on set.
Designed for Discretion
To maintain authenticity, each lamp features custom-fitted diffusion, perfectly concealing the LEDs while preserving a natural glow. Practicality is key—every unit includes a built-in power switch and a removable battery, making on-set adjustments quick and hassle-free. These modernized oil lamps deliver timeless ambiance without the unpredictability of real flames.
Molotov Magic:
Safe Sparks for the Screen
To create a realistic fire effect without the hazards of real flames, flexible tungsten and amber diodes were embedded directly into the fabric wick. These LEDs cast an animated flickering glow onto the scene, mimicking the unpredictable nature of fire. The result? A convincing illusion that sells the heat without the risk.
Lighting Up the Action
In this high-intensity scene, the script calls for an actor to light a Molotov cocktail, its flickering glow illuminating their face before they hurl it violently. The challenge was to ensure the effect looked authentic while being completely safe. The Gumstick was the perfect solution—its compact size and built-in flicker generator seamlessly handled the animation, delivering a dynamic, responsive fire effect.
Rigged and Ready for the Spotlight
To complete the illusion, the show's property department provided several stunt bottles for modification. Each was carefully rigged with electronics to maintain the appearance of a real Molotov without the danger of an actual incendiary. With this setup, the production achieved all the drama of fire—without any of the burns.