What seemed like a mere humorous notion transformed into reality as Seinfeld personally reached out to Hamm and Slattery with an invitation to join his project. Seinfeld managed to deliver an enticing pitch, which led the duo to confirm their participation. The production squad for “Unfrosted” then went the extra mile to tailor a scene that would be a nod to “Mad Men,” complete with specific lighting and set design reflecting the iconic show:
“We enlisted the expertise of Bill Pope, our cinematographer, to emulate ‘Mad Men’s’ visual aesthetic. Moreover, we incorporated genuine ‘Mad Men’ set pieces. One of our set decorators, with past ties to ‘Mad Men,’ had a delightful revelation for us. ‘I have authentic items from Don Draper’s office,’ she said, and these were included in the scenes. The collaboration with Jon Hamm and John Slattery was seamless, resulting in one of my favorite scenes in the movie. For Jerry, it was akin to living out a ‘Mad Men’ fantasy sequence, a cherished series he never had the opportunity to join,” explained Feresten.
I engaged in a discussion with a few colleagues about “Unfrosted” in today’s installment of the /Film Daily podcast, which incorporates my comprehensive dialogue with Spike Feresten. Give it a listen below:
Join the /Film Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, and various podcast platforms. Feel free to submit your feedback, inquiries, and topic suggestions to bpearson@slashfilm.com. Don’t forget to include your name and location for a chance to be featured on the show.
FAQs About Jon Hamm and John Slattery’s Cameo in “Unfrosted”
- Why did Jerry Seinfeld reach out to Jon Hamm and John Slattery for “Unfrosted”?
Seinfeld connected with Hamm and Slattery as he wanted to include actors from “Mad Men” to enhance the authenticity of a particular scene that pays homage to the series. - How did the “Unfrosted” team replicate the “Mad Men” aesthetic?
The film’s director of photography, Bill Pope, studied the lighting of “Mad Men,” and set decorations from Don Draper’s office were used to recreate the show’s iconic look. - Was the cameo of Jon Hamm and John Slattery well-received?
According to Spike Feresten, the scene was a success and became one of his favorites in the movie. It was an elaborate joke that effectively incorporated elements of “Mad Men.” - How can I listen to the /Film Daily podcast discussing “Unfrosted”?
The podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. You can listen to episodes that include discussions about “Unfrosted” and interviews with individuals involved with the movie.
Conclusion
The return of Jon Hamm and John Slattery to the screen, within the context of a “Mad Men”-inspired scene in Jerry Seinfeld’s “Unfrosted,” showcases the power of nostalgia and the meticulous care taken to pay tribute to a beloved series. The effort has paid off, offering fans a delightful crossover moment that intertwines the comedic stylings of Seinfeld with the dramatic flair of “Mad Men.” This unexpected collaboration serves as a testament to the enduring influence of the show and the versatility of its cast. In the larger scope of film and television, it highlights the creative possibilities when different worlds and genres collide, offering audiences fresh and entertaining experiences.