Action On Film Winner for Best Art Direction, Thicker Than Water relied heavily on set design created by Katherine Messerer. Since most of the film takes place in one house, particular attention was given to the themes of every room. From Lara’s ‘Savage Garden’ to Helen’s stuffed animal orgy to the blood-drenched basement, most of the film is shot in deep focus, allowing the eye to wander around the intricate sets. Note: The Baxter house actually has no basement. The basement scenes were shot in a Brooklyn townhouse.
"The claustrophobic feel resulting from much of the film being shot inside the Baxter home perfectly mirrors the isolation the Baxters have chosen in an effort to protect and preserve their family."