The new Critical Role series Candela Obscura takes us on a thrilling journey with a group of investigators summoned by the Candela Obscura to unravel the mysteries of strange magical occurrences. Set in The Fairelands, a realm brimming with perilous magic and cutting-edge technology in the aftermath of a devastating war, each episode of Candela Obscura presents a fresh enigma for our intrepid investigators to solve.
Laura Bailey on Critical Role’s Candela Obscura
FilmmakerFocus: What was the inspiration for your character, and what did you want to explore that is different from other characters you have created?
Laura Bailey: Arlo was interesting because I kind of worked backwards with her. I started loosely with the way she looked, and the way she sounded. Once I started creating her backstory, I decided it would be fun to explore a similar aspect to Imogen from our main campaign – in that the sanctity of her mind is invaded by outside influences. But unlike Imogen, who pushes that influence away, I wanted Arlo to embrace it.
What is the most intriguing part about playing in the gothic horror genre?
Laura Bailey: I think I had the most fun getting to see what creepy things everyone else at the table came up with! Matt is always so great at building tension and making my heart race, but there were some deliciously chilling moments given out by other members of the party as well.
What sets Candela Obscura apart from other Critical Role series that will excite audiences?
Laura Bailey: One of the coolest things about this series is how easy it is to jump in. I know our core campaigns can be a little intimidating for people wanting to start watching. With hundreds of hours of content it can be hard to know how to catch up. But Candela is much shorter in form. Each chapter will have a new story to tell, so viewers can really start at any episode.
What is it like to debut a new game and system with Candela Obscura using Illuminated Worlds?
Laura Bailey: Unbelievably exciting. I can’t wait for more people to experience what we’ve been keeping secret for so long!
Can you talk about the dynamic at the table and what each player and their character brings to the story?
Laura Bailey: I’m in love with this cast. I felt really honored to be part of the first group sitting at the table to play Candela Obscura. Matt is always a brilliant GM, and getting to roll with him in this new world felt magical. Ashley is hilarious and earnest. I can’t stop watching her when we’re playing together. Anjali is a goddess. I love watching her micro expressions while the game is going on, because I can see she always has a plan forming behind her eyes. And I was beyond happy to get to play with Robbie again. I’ve missed him dearly since he left Bells Hells and this reunion just made me want him at the table all the time.
How do you foresee the reunion between Laudna and Imogen after they’ve each evolved separately?
Laura Bailey: I’m freaking out about it! My heart literally starts pounding when I think about it – I have no idea what’s going to happen.
How do you think the Bells Hells dynamic will change after being split and working with new allies?
Laura Bailey: I imagine we’ll join back together with new takes on what the gods mean to the party. Do we help the deities? Do we embrace the chaos of change? Regardless, here’s hoping the team in Issylra will find some bits of knowledge to give us more of a fighting chance against the unfathomably powerful foes we face.
After the Apogee Solstice fight goes bad the same kind of mysterious white flash that Imogen used to save her friends against Otohan is used to send them all away and split the party. Has Imogen thought about if that might have been her unknowingly doing that again, her mother doing it to save her/send her away, or just a side effect of too much built up Ruidus Magic?
Laura Bailey: Well… now she’s thinking about it!! Ok. Ok, I have to go call Matt.
About Critical Role’s Candela Obscura
