
SUMMITSTAR STUDIOS POWERS UP REMOTE ADR SESSIONS FOR WARNER BROTHERS IN HBOMAX’S NEW SERIES, DUSTER
We’re thrilled to announce that Duster, the highly anticipated new series from J.J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan, premieres today on MAX — and Summitstar Studios is proud to have been part of the journey behind the scenes.
Working on Duster was more than just another project — it was an opportunity to help shape a gritty, cinematic world full of high-stakes drama, compelling characters, and rich historical texture. Our team at Summitstar Studios was trusted with key post-production elements that contributed to the show’s bold tone and immersive storytelling. Every contribution to a film or television project is crucial to project completion and success. Summitstar Studios is honored to have been selected to assist such industry powerhouses.
We hope you enjoy the series, it’s definitely on our watch list!
The Production:
Set in the 1970s Southwest, Duster follows a gutsy getaway driver caught in the tangled web of a rising crime syndicate. The series blends grit and style, and every technical decision — from the way a scene sounds to how it’s visually balanced — contributes to the immersive tone. We worked closely with the production team to ensure each detail was polished and purposeful.
The series is executive produced by J.J Abrams (“Lost”), LaToya Morgan (“The Walking Dead”), and Rachel Rusch Rich (“Castle Rock”). J.J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan wrote the first two episodes that Steph Green (“The L Word”) directed and executive produced.
Seamless Remote ADR: A Technological Triumph
One of the standout aspects of this project was the remote-directed ADR sessions. Talent was recorded in Summitstar’s state-of-the-art ADR stage in Arizona, while the production team at Warner Brothers’ main studios maintained direct involvement. This seamless connection was made possible by Summitstar Studios’ investment in the latest remote collaboration technologies, which ensured that every line of dialogue matched the directors’ vision with impeccable clarity.
Summitstar Studios’ cutting-edge setup not only facilitated real-time communication between the remote locations but also ensured that the quality of audio met the highest industry standards. This technological prowess allowed for a collaborative environment where creative decisions could be made swiftly, enhancing the overall efficiency of the production process.
A Collaborative Spirit
At Summitstar Studios, we believe great post-production is a creative partnership. The Duster team brought an incredible vision to the table, and we were honored to help bring it to life. From our audio suites to our color grading facilities, every detail of our workflow was customized to serve the series’ unique style.
At the heart of this successful ADR venture was Nile Popchock, Summitstar Studios’ chief audio engineer and Summitstar Studios’ president and CEO, Michael Giannantonio. With a keen ear for detail and a deep understanding of the director’s artistic intent, Nile’s expertise ensured that every piece of dialogue was seamlessly integrated into the show’s tapestry. His ability to assist Warner Brothers to guide the talent and adjust to the dynamic needs of remote sessions was pivotal in achieving the authentic 1970s vibe and intensity that “Duster” demanded.
Post Production Supervisor Michael Giannantonio’s leadership further amplified the studio’s efforts. His oversight ensured that all aspects of the ADR process aligned perfectly with the show’s production timeline and quality benchmarks. Michael’s experience in managing complex post-production workflows was instrumental in navigating the challenges of remote ADR, ultimately delivering a product that stands as a testament to Summitstar Studios’ capabilities.
Josh Holloway (“Lost”) and Rachel Hilson (“This is Us”) will star alongside Keith David (“The Princess and the Frog”), Sydney Elisabeth (“The Last O.G.”), Greg Grunberg (“Alias”), Camille Guaty (“Ghosts of Girlfriends Past”), Asivak Koostachin (“Montana Story”), Adriana Aluna Martinez, and Benjamin Charles Watson (“Designated Survivor”). Corbin Bernsen (“City on a Hill”), Gail O’Grady (“Criminal Minds”) and Evan Jones (“Midnight Texas”) guest star. Produced by J.J. Abrams renowned, Bad Robot Productions and LaToya Morgan’s TinkerToy Productions in association with Warner Brothers Television for HBO Max. Brought to life by directors Darren Grant, Steph Green, and J.J. Abrams, “Duster” promises to be a thrilling ride. Integral to its post-production success was Summitstar Studios, where the chief audio engineer Nile Popchock led the ADR sessions with remarkable expertise. Under the meticulous guidance of Post Production Supervisor Michael Giannantonio, the ADR sessions were nothing short of groundbreaking.
A New Era for Post Production
The collaboration on “Duster” highlights a new era in post-production, where geographical boundaries dissolve in the face of advanced technology and expertise. Summitstar Studios has not only provided a critical service but has also set a benchmark for future productions.
As audiences gear up to experience the thrilling world of “Duster,” they can appreciate the unseen yet crucial role that Summitstar Studios played in bringing this story to life. With a commitment to excellence and a drive to push the boundaries of what’s possible, Summitstar Studios continues to shine brightly in the constellation of top-tier post-production houses.
Stay tuned to HBOMAX to catch “Duster” and witness the seamless integration of dialogue and storytelling, made possible by the unparalleled ADR services of Summitstar Studios.
The Enchanting Process of Audio Post-Production
So, what happens behind the scenes at Summitstar Studios during post-production audio? Let’s lift the curtain and take a glimpse into the enchanting process:
The audio engineers carefully sift through recorded dialogue, removing unwanted noise and ensuring perfect synchronization with the visuals. When necessary, they conduct additional automated dialogue replacement (ADR) sessions to capture flawless performances.
Creating immersive sonic worlds is an art form in itself. Summitstar Studios uses their expertise to craft custom sound effects and foley to heighten the impact of every scene.
Music Composition and Scoring:
The right music can elevate emotions and give a unique identity to your project. Summitstar Studios collaborates with talented composers to compose original scores that resonate with the audience.
The final step is to mix and master all the audio elements, ensuring they blend seamlessly and are presented in optimal quality across different playback systems.
Post-production audio is the unsung hero that brings projects to life, immersing audiences in breathtaking experiences they won’t forget. Summitstar Studios has mastered this art, providing impeccable audio services that elevate storytelling to new dimensions. So, the next time you embark on a creative endeavor, consider the magic that Summitstar Studios can weave with their post-production audio prowess. With their expertise, your project will leave a lasting impression on audiences, taking them on a journey they’ll cherish forever.