On the set – with Oblivion producer Duncan Henderson

Duncan Henderson, producer of Tom Cruise’s new film Oblivion, shared some insights with us on the sci-fi epic, which was largely shot in Baton Rouge. Here are a few of the things we learned from him:


Pre-production is the key to success. After that, it is simply focusing on executing the plan.


Most of the movie was shot at Celtic [Media Centre], which we chose because we love the facilities. But we also built a giant sand pit in St. Francisville.


We worked six days a week, off on Sundays. Except for Mardi Gras. We took off for that.

This was my first time working with Tom [Cruise], and it was unique. He is involved with everything and brings such great energy to every process.

There’s a tremendous combination of talent going into Oblivion. [Director] Joseph Kosinski brings a lot to the picnic. The look they are creating is extraordinary.

Morgan Freeman is exceptional. It’s hard to top working with him.

When you visit a new city for the first time you just poke around some. I ended up really enjoying Baton Rouge’s downtown and the whole Capitol grounds area. We had a lot of fun showing people around the city.

I was at the LSU-Alabama game in Tiger Stadium, and I can tell you every other college football experience I have afterward will be a little less than that. Tiger Stadium is as good as it gets.

Our wrap party was held at the Rural Life Museum, and it was just spectacular, a beautiful time.

Louisiana’s [motion picture tax credit] rebate program is the gold standard. Simple, no gray areas. It’s the best.

What I love about Oblivion is that it’s not a sequel or part of a franchise. This is a unique story.

Oblivion arrives in theaters April 19.