The Twelve (Netflix)
Cyrex partnered with the production team behind The Twelve (Netflix) to design and develop fully functional on-screen digital interfaces, enabling actors to interact with realistic smartphone and computer applications during live filming.
The Challenge
Creating Real, Functional Interfaces for On-Screen Use
The Twelve is a Flemish-language courtroom drama that gained international reach through Netflix. The production required digital interfaces to appear on-screen as part of key scenes — including smartphone apps and computer systems used by characters.
Rather than relying on post-production visual effects, the producers wanted:
- Fully functional, interactive interfaces
- Real-time actor interaction during filming
- Authentic user flows (typing, swiping, unlocking, clicking)
- Interfaces resembling real-world apps without infringing on licensing
The interfaces had to look convincing on camera, behave like real operating systems, and align precisely with scripted interactions. This required a blend of UI/UX design, prototyping, and technical implementation under production deadlines.
The Cyrex Solution
Design & Development of Interactive Prototypes
Cyrex approached the project as a focused development engagement, led by Bruno Dobres and Rita Branco.
The first step involved analyzing the scripts and aligning with the producer’s creative direction. Every digital interaction had to match the timing and narrative context of the scenes.
Realistic Interface Recreation
The team developed functional prototypes that simulated:
- Typing and text messaging
- Swiping and unlocking screens
- Clicking and navigation flows
- App switching and real-time user interaction
Interfaces inspired by platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Tinder were recreated with modified branding to avoid licensing issues while preserving visual authenticity.
Mock-ups were converted into connected, interactive prototypes that actors could use naturally during filming.
Cross-Platform Development
The project required prototypes for both Android and iOS environments.
Key challenges included:
- Differences in rendering behavior between operating systems
- Interaction inconsistencies between browser previews and native prototype applications
- Ensuring visual accuracy when captured on camera
The team selected Framer as the prototyping tool after evaluating multiple options. They optimized interactions to balance technical feasibility with cinematic requirements.
Live Production Constraints
Unlike traditional product development, this project operated within live television production timelines.
Cyrex delivered:
- Fully functional interfaces prior to shooting
- Rapid adjustments to accommodate last-minute script changes
- Ready-to-use prototypes compatible with filming conditions
Flexibility and precision were essential. The interfaces had to work reliably during live takes without disrupting production schedules.
The Outcome
Production-Ready Interfaces Delivered On Time
- Authentic on-screen digital interactions
- Real-time actor usability
- Compliance with licensing constraints
- On-time delivery within production deadlines
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