Mr. Robot's Co-Producer and Writer - Kor Adana

EARLY EXPOSURE TO TECHNOLOGY AND HACKING

Kor Adana's initial interest in how things work began in childhood, taking apart electronics and building computers. This hands-on exploration evolved into an interest in systems and security. Influenced by films like 'WarGames' and 'Hackers,' he was motivated by the idea of being a knowledgeable hacker. His early attempts at breaking into systems, like the school's AS400, were driven by curiosity rather than malice, a formative experience that later found its way into the narrative of 'Mr. Robot.'

THE UNEXPECTED SKILL-BUILDER: SOCIAL ENGINEERING

Adana's youthful fascination with prank calls and impersonations, inspired by groups like the Jerky Boys, served as an unconventional yet effective training ground. These activities, while seemingly frivolous, honed his skills in social engineering, narrative construction, and persuasive communication. He learned to craft stories and manipulate conversations to achieve specific goals, which proved invaluable for developing characters and storylines in his later career as a writer.

ENGINEERING THE MIND: ACADEMIA AND CYBERSECURITY

Despite his passion for filmmaking, Adana pursued a degree in computer engineering, specializing in network security. His college years involved practical exercises like Red Team/Blue Team simulations, reinforcing his technical acumen. This academic path led to a career in cybersecurity for a major corporation, where he developed security policies and conducted penetration testing, gaining extensive real-world experience in enterprise-level system defense and offense.

THE STRATEGIC PIVOT TO ENTERTAINMENT

Adana harbored a long-standing ambition to work in film, viewing his cybersecurity career as a means to an end. He meticulously saved money, planning to support himself for an extended period without income. While working full-time in LA, he actively networked, attending industry events and building relationships. This strategic approach, combined with a clear financial runway, allowed him to transition from the corporate world into the competitive entertainment industry.

FROM ASSISTANT TO WRITER: BREAKING INTO 'MR. ROBOT'

His entry into Hollywood began with an unpaid internship reading scripts, which he leveraged into a paid assistant position. This led to work on various shows before he became an assistant to the showrunner of 'Rush.' Through connections made at USA Network, he was introduced to Sam Esmail and the script for 'Mr. Robot.' Recognizing the show's alignment with his unique background, he offered his technical expertise, ultimately becoming a writer and co-producer.

CRAFTING REALISM: THE TECHNICAL AND VISUAL APPROACH

Adana emphasizes the practical, non-green screen approach to filming 'Mr. Robot,' ensuring code is displayed authentically. To manage the complexities of filming actors typing code, they utilize Flash animation for pre-programmed, interactive sequences that appear realistic but are controlled by specific keystrokes. This method, developed with animators and technical consultants, allows for seamless execution on set, even when Adana cannot be present.

THE POWER OF THE ARG AND FAN ENGAGEMENT

BALANCING REALISM AND NARRATIVE IN HACKING SCENES

Creating authentic hacking sequences requires balancing technical accuracy with storytelling needs. Adana and his team collaborate with cybersecurity consultants to ensure the depiction of exploits and tools is grounded in reality, though often custom-made scripts are used for narrative clarity. They carefully select visually compelling and understandable aspects of complex hacks, understanding that the goal is to convey the narrative thrust rather than provide a technical tutorial.

NAVIGATING THE CHALLENGE OF HISTORICAL ACCURACY

A significant challenge in producing 'Mr. Robot' is maintaining technological accuracy across different seasons, especially as software and hacking techniques rapidly evolve. Forging older versions of software and apps becomes increasingly difficult, requiring reliance on external companies with extensive digital archives. Adana finds ways to creatively address timeline discrepancies, sometimes justifying the use of newer exploits by asserting fictional characters' awareness or self-development of these tools.

PRESERVING TECHNICAL PROWESS AND INTRODUCING NEW TECH

Despite the demands of show production, Adana strives to maintain his technical knowledge through blogs and conferences, often collaborating with his team of consultants. The show’s creators also look for opportunities to incorporate emerging technologies like wearables and IoT devices, though they are often constrained by the show's established timeline. This constant quest for relevant and cutting-edge, yet story-appropriate, technology keeps the hacking elements fresh and compelling.

PERSONAL SECURITY HABITS AND CONCERNS

Adana practices rigorous personal cybersecurity, utilizing two-factor authentication, password managers, and VPNs consistently. While he doesn't cover his laptop camera, he employs software alerts for webcam or microphone activation. His primary security concern lies with companies mishandling private data, emphasizing the duty of care they have for user information, rather than the hacking of personal devices like smart cars.

THE ROLE OF CRYPTOCURRENCIES AND BLOCKCHAIN

Cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology are integrated into 'Mr. Robot' plots, notably through Evil Corp's coin. Adana expresses personal enthusiasm for blockchain's potential, seeing it as a future technology and encouraging informed investment in digital currencies. The show aims to spark conversation and educate viewers about these concepts, making complex financial and technological topics accessible through narrative.

ADVICE FOR ASPIRING HACKERS AND WRITERS

For aspiring hackers, Adana recommends extensive self-education through online resources, books, podcasts, and conferences, emphasizing problem-solving. For aspiring TV writers, he advises consistent writing practice, moving to Los Angeles, seeking internships, and making oneself indispensable in the industry, using resources like Stephen King's 'On Writing' for craft development.

SEASON THREE'S THEME: DISINTEGRATION AND THE ELLIOT-ROBOT DYNAMIC

Season three of 'Mr. Robot' is centered on disintegration, specifically exploring the separation between Elliot and the 'Mr. Robot' persona. This internal conflict is visualized in innovative ways, creating compelling dramatic tension. Adana expresses excitement for the audience to witness this evolution, highlighting the intense development of the episodes and the overall thrilling ride the season promises.