LeVar Burton's Experience Wearing the Visor on Star Trek: The Next Generation
The iconic character of Geordi La Forge, played by LeVar Burton, on the legendary series Star Trek: The Next Generation was distinguished by a unique visor that symbolized his blindness and his ability to see through advanced technology. Let's delve into the details of this design and the challenges LeVar Burton faced during filming.
The Design and Functionality of Geordi La Forge's Visor
Geordi La Forge's visor is a crucial part of his character, both visually and symbolically. The visor, which is designed to look futuristic and visually striking, did not actually enable Burton to peer through it. Instead, it served as a creative choice to depict Geordi's unique perception of the world, despite his blindness.
During the filming of Star Trek: The Next Generation, the visor was opaque, and Burton had to rely on his other senses, memorized cues, and the guidance of fellow actors and the crew to perform his scenes. This unique design helped to emphasize Geordi's advanced abilities and contributed to the show's innovative storytelling.
Challenges Faced by LeVar Burton
Despite the incredible design, the visor presented several challenges. For instance, LeVar Burton could only see what was directly in front of him, which meant he couldn't see his peripherals or look down at his feet. He relied on gaps in the visor, which were small holes allowing him to see a limited amount of light and shapes. This made navigation tricky, leading to frequent collisions with objects on the set. Burton once mentioned, 'I could see through the gaps, but the vision was hardly ideal, and I often bumped into things.'
Details of the Visor Design
The visor's design was both clever and practical. It had small metal rods that formed a surface with gaps that allowed Burton to see enough to perform his scenes. Holding a comb up to your eyes and looking through the teeth can simulate the effect, and even with a fine-toothed comb, you should be able to see just fine. While Burton could see through the gaps, the visor did not affect his spatial awareness or depth perception, allowing him to move around the set safely and perform his duty as the first officer and chief of engineering on the USS Enterprise.
Impact on Filming and Broadcasting
The visor also had a practical impact on filming. The prop was not solid or opaque, allowing Burton to see what he was doing, especially for the cameras. This was particularly important during the show's original broadcast in standard definition, as it ensured that his pupils behind the visor were not visible to viewers. The gaps in the visor were just enough to provide Burton with the necessary visibility while maintaining the character's representation of a blind individual with a technologically advanced sense of vision.
LeVar Burton's Professionalism
LeVar Burton's professionalism is evident throughout his career, especially during the filming of Star Trek: The Next Generation. He endured the challenges and inconveniences presented by the visor but remained dedicated to his role. Burton once stated, 'If the technology improved, I was first to enjoy it,' highlighting his adaptability and commitment to the role of Geordi La Forge.
In conclusion, LeVar Burton's experience with the visor on Star Trek: The Next Generation is a testament to the show's innovative storytelling and the actors' remarkable dedication. Through his perseverance, Burton brought the character of Geordi La Forge to life, inspiring generations of viewers and solidifying his place in the annals of television history.