SPOILER ALERT: This article contains spoilers for the ending of “Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat,” now streaming on Prime Video.
The masterminds behind “Jury Duty” have once again delivered a comedic triumph.
Co-creator Jake Szymanski and director Lee Eisenberg have crafted another hilarious season of television, this time pulling the wool over the eyes of an unsuspecting protagonist, a temp assistant named Anthony Norman, who was led to believe that the ludicrous office antics surrounding him were genuine. The new series, “Company Retreat,” surpasses their 2023 hit “Jury Duty” in scale and ambition.
The finale of “Company Retreat,” now available on Prime Video, unveils the behind-the-scenes magic of the season. After sifting through 10,000 applicants for a fictional temp position, Szymanski and Eisenberg selected Norman as the focal point of a show centered on employees of a hot sauce company embarking on a corporate retreat. Expanding from the single set of “Jury Duty,” “Company Retreat” utilized a sprawling multi-acre lodge. This season featured 48 cameras, an increase from the 29 used in “Jury Duty,” and accumulated 3,600 hours of footage compared to the previous 2,100 hours. Each character at Rockin’ Grandmas Hot Sauce was tasked with memorizing extensive backstories to maintain the illusion for Norman.
“Company Retreat” also heightened the dramatic stakes. Rockin’ Grandmas CEO Doug Womack (Jerry Hauck) initially planned to hand over the business to his laid-back son Dougie Womack Jr. (Alex Bonifer), but a deal with the inhospitable conglomerate Triukas Group complicates matters. Despite his short tenure of just two weeks at Rockin’ Grandmas, Norman forms bonds with his fictional colleagues and takes a stand to keep them free from Triukas. In a surprising emotional twist, Norman enters the meeting room just in time to prevent Womack from finalizing the deal.
After the deal falls through, ensuring Rockin’ Grandmas’ independence, the cast unveils the truth to Norman, awarding him $150,000. In a conversation with Variety, Szymanski and Eisenberg reveal how the season almost unraveled, share insights on securing Sia for a talent show, and discuss an actor’s near-blunder that could have exposed the ruse.
Courtesy of Prime
What stood out to you from Anthony’s application that made him the right hero character?
Jake Szymanski: Anthony is remarkable, with a multi-dimensional personality. He exudes kindness and thoughtfulness, coupled with a strong sense of self. This confidence is essential, as we needed someone who wouldn’t be the punchline but would instead be surrounded by quirky characters making questionable decisions. Anthony’s ability to step up, offer help, and share opinions without judgment is invaluable. He’s action-oriented, compassionate, and has a commendable work ethic.
Lee Eisenberg: Anthony embodies innate decency. The show reflects this through its hopeful and optimistic tone, free from cynicism. In a world that often lacks these qualities, Anthony stands out as a beacon of right decisions and support for newfound friends. His investment in the characters and their stories grows, especially in Season 2, where he enters a familial setting, enhancing his connection significantly.
How do you make sure you’re casting someone who hasn’t seen “Jury Duty” Season 1 or who will recognize any of the actors?
Szymanski: We’re protective of our casting strategies, but it’s safe to say we’re not seeking individuals who are deeply entrenched in pop culture or constantly consuming the latest TV shows and viral content. We aim for those who haven’t yet gained widespread recognition, avoiding anyone who might have been in a viral comedy video that our lead could have encountered.
I recognized Lisa Gilroy from Season 1, and she’s been all over my TikTok with her comedy videos.
Eisenberg: Anthony didn’t recognize Lisa. We adore Lisa for her breakout role in Season 1. Despite her minor role, we altered her appearance to defy expectations. Her transformative ability is astounding, making her disappear into roles seamlessly. However, this pushes the boundaries of recognition, as she continues to gain popularity.
Szymanski: Lisa played a new character without using her real name, yet when introducing herself, she said, “Hi, I’m Lisa.” We panicked, but Anthony didn’t notice, allowing us to carry on without issue.
Eisenberg: “Hi, I’m Lisa Gilroy. I’m an actress!”
Did you worry about Anthony googling “Rockin’ Grandmas” or searching for any of the actors’ characters’ social media?
Szymanski: Rockin’ Grandma’s is a small business with a modest website and social media presence, keeping us safe from such searches. Season 2’s world-building is more cohesive, with characters more familiar with each other, making it easier for Anthony to adapt. When the cast proposed a phone-free retreat, Anthony followed suit.
Eisenberg: We took nearly three years between seasons, dedicating immense care and preparation to every 25-30 minute episode. Everything is meticulously planned, from Rockin’ Grandma’s Instagram to the Triukas website, creating an authentic world for Anthony, even if he ventures beyond the immediate setting.
Szymanski: Season 2’s expansive world-building felt reminiscent of “The Truman Show,” requiring comprehensive company histories. Moving from three courthouse rooms to a three-acre campus meant we had to be prepared for Anthony to explore anywhere.
Eisenberg: We created detailed backstories for characters, allowing actors to develop dynamics. Each character’s tenure, hierarchy, and inside jokes were carefully orchestrated, ensuring they had answers to any question Anthony might ask.
Szymanski: Actors couldn’t improvise backstories like “We went to college together,” which could unravel the entire show if Anthony followed up with others.
Courtesy of Prime
How did you get Sia to show up for the talent show? Did she know what was going on with the show?
Eisenberg: Sia was well aware of the show and was a massive fan of Season 1. We reached out, and she eagerly joined, excited to participate. Her connection with Anthony was unprecedented and delightful. They both enjoyed their time together immensely.
After having James Marsden in Season 1, were you trying to land another celebrity for Season 2? Was Sia always your choice?
Szymanski: In “Corporate Retreat,” maintaining realism was essential, so a permanent celebrity presence wasn’t feasible.
Eisenberg: It would be implausible to suggest James Marsden worked in Rockin’ Grandma’s warehouse.
Szymanski: Sia was our ideal choice for the talent show, and it aligned perfectly. Typically, productions accommodate guest stars’ schedules, but for Sia, it had to fit within a specific two-hour window to maintain authenticity for Anthony. She was enthusiastic and accommodating.
You reveal in the finale how one opened car window nearly derailed the entire ending. Were there any other close calls that almost ruined the show?
Eisenberg: During the hypnotist show, we feared a script might have been left out. In a typical production, you’d pause filming to fix such issues. Here, it’s about managing potential disasters silently. We anxiously watched, hoping Anthony wouldn’t notice until someone discreetly removed the paper. It was a tense three minutes.
One of the most surprising moments in the finale was when Anthony convinces Doug to reject the Triukas deal and says “father to father,” because we don’t learn much about Anthony’s personal life or that he’s a dad. Did you know that when you were casting him, and did that impact your decision at all?
Eisenberg: This wasn’t unexpected for us. We gather extensive information during casting. We didn’t want to exploit it, but the moment was naturally impactful. It surpassed our initial vision from when we conceptualized “Company Retreat.” Anthony’s genuine moment exceeded our expectations and illustrated the unpredictability and creativity of the process. His spontaneous suggestions, like searching rooms, are unscripted moments that add authenticity.
Was there a more stressful moment on set than when you were shooting the finale?
Szymanski: Working with a real person like Anthony means constant unpredictability and tension. Every detail, like filming outdoors during lunch, hinges on his actions. We hoped he’d choose to sit at the designated table, avoiding disruptions. The stress lies in ensuring everything aligns, even when he’s unaware of the hidden cameras.
Do you have any other ideas in mind for a third season?
Eisenberg: When we began “Jury Duty,” we assured Amazon we’d complete a full season, though we weren’t entirely certain it was achievable. “Company Retreat” only proceeded once we had a compelling idea and storyline. If given the opportunity for another season, we’d ensure it’s warranted and feels right.
This interview has been edited and condensed.
