A Glimpse into the World of Netflix Productions
In Stranger Things, the nostalgic charm of the 1980s is expertly woven into every aspect of the show, including its filming locations. The creators’ choice of settings adds a layer of authenticity to the story, transporting viewers back in time to a bygone era. One of the most iconic locations is the Hawkins National Laboratory, which serves as the ominous hub for government experiments gone wrong.
Located at the Georgia State Archives in Morrow, Georgia, this real-life setting provides an eerie atmosphere that perfectly captures the show’s sci-fi horror elements. The imposing structure and stark architecture create a sense of unease, foreshadowing the sinister events that unfold within its walls. Meanwhile, other locations like the Wheeler family home, Central Middle School, and the iconic Starcourt Mall in Atlanta, Georgia, add to the nostalgic charm of the show.
These carefully chosen filming locations not only enhance the storytelling process but also pay homage to the era’s pop culture and aesthetic. By immersing themselves in these authentic settings, viewers become fully invested in the world of Stranger Things, making it easy to forget that this is all just a work of fiction.
Stranger Things: A Trip Down Memory Lane
The nostalgic world of Hawkins, Indiana, where friendship and adventure reign supreme. As we delve into the filming locations that brought this beloved show to life, you’ll find yourself transported back to a time of analog phones, VHS tapes, and Saturday morning cartoons.
Retro Revival Many of the show’s iconic settings were carefully chosen to evoke the nostalgia of the 1980s. The town square, where Joyce Byers (Winona Ryder) frantically searches for her missing son Will, is actually the charming downtown area of Chattanooga, Tennessee. The city’s historic architecture and quaint shops provided the perfect backdrop for Hawkins’ idyllic small-town atmosphere.
The Upside Down But not all locations are as cheerful. The eerie and foreboding setting of the Upside Down, the dark parallel dimension where monsters lurk, was primarily filmed in Atlanta, Georgia. The city’s diverse landscapes – from industrial areas to woods and forests – were used to create a sense of unease and tension.
The Iconic Wheeler Residence One of the most recognizable settings is the Wheeler residence, home to Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Will (Noah Schnapp), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), and Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin). The exterior shots were filmed in Huntsville, Alabama, while the interior scenes were created on set. The result is a warm and inviting space that feels like a true reflection of the brothers’ bond.
As we explore these filming locations, it’s clear that the creators of Stranger Things carefully selected each setting to evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder. From retro diners to eerie forests, every location plays a crucial role in shaping the show’s atmospheric narrative.
The Witcher: Unveiling the Mystical Landscapes
The mystical landscapes of “The Witcher” transported viewers to a world of magic and monsters, but the show’s creators didn’t just conjure up these settings – they drew inspiration from real-life locations in Eastern Europe. Slovakia played host to many of the show’s most iconic scenes, including Geralt’s horseback ride through the mountains and his battles with the Wild Hunt. The rugged terrain of Slovakia’s Tatras Mountains provided the perfect backdrop for these action-packed sequences, while the country’s picturesque villages added a touch of authenticity to the show’s fantasy world. The town of Ždiar, in particular, was used extensively as the fictional village of Kaer Morhen, where Geralt trained with Vesemir.
Meanwhile, Poland was home to many of the show’s mystical forests and mythical creatures. Białowieża Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was transformed into the eerie Forest of Brokilon, where Geralt encountered the enigmatic sorceress, Francesca. The forest’s ancient trees and twisted undergrowth added a sense of mystery and danger to these pivotal scenes.
From the snow-capped peaks of Slovakia to the primordial forests of Poland, “The Witcher” proved that with the right locations, even the most fantastical worlds can feel eerily real.
Narcos: A Look into the Dark Side
The sun-drenched streets of Colombia provided the perfect backdrop for the gripping story of Pablo Escobar, and Netflix’s ‘Narcos’ did not disappoint in its portrayal of the infamous drug lord’s rise to power. The show’s creators took great care in selecting locations that would accurately depict the world of cocaine trafficking and the ensuing chaos that followed.
Medellín: A City of Contrasts The bustling streets of Medellín, once known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its year-round pleasant weather, served as the primary filming location for ‘Narcos’. The city’s vibrant energy and contrasting beauty – from modern skyscrapers to shantytowns – perfectly captured the essence of Escobar’s hometown.
• La Llanura: A sprawling neighborhood that was once a hotbed of crime and violence, La Llanura provided the perfect setting for many pivotal scenes in the show. Its narrow alleys and crumbling buildings added an air of authenticity to the story. • Plaza Botero: This iconic public square in Medellín’s El Poblado district became a popular spot for Escobar to flaunt his wealth and power. The stunning sculptures and vibrant street art surrounding the plaza made it an ideal location for showcasing the city’s cultural heritage.
Mexico City: A Hub of Crime As the show progressed, the story shifted to Mexico City, where Escobar’s drug empire continued to flourish. The show’s creators took full advantage of the city’s rich history and architecture, filming at numerous iconic locations throughout the metropolis.
• La Merced Market: This bustling marketplace in the heart of Mexico City became a key location for many pivotal scenes, as characters haggled over goods and information. • El Palacio de Bellas Artes: This stunning Art Nouveau palace served as the backdrop for several high-stakes meetings between Escobar and his associates. Its ornate architecture added an air of sophistication to these intense conversations.
The attention to detail in selecting these locations is a testament to the show’s commitment to authenticity, transporting viewers into the gritty world of ‘Narcos’. As we delve deeper into the dark side of Pablo Escobar’s story, it becomes clear that these real-life settings played a crucial role in bringing this true tale to life.
The Crown: Royal Treatment in Real-Life Settings
Join us as we step into the opulent world of ‘The Crown’, exploring the stately homes and royal estates that brought the British monarchy to life.
Windsor Castle, the Queen’s official residence in London, is a prime filming location for the show. The castle’s State Apartments, which are used by the Royal Family for official events, were transformed into Buckingham Palace for scenes featuring Queen Elizabeth II (played by Olivia Colman). The castle’s iconic Round Tower, with its stunning views of the surrounding landscape, was also featured prominently in several episodes.
Another key location is Balmoral Estate, a 50,000-acre estate in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. This tranquil retreat has been a favorite vacation spot for the Royal Family for generations and served as the setting for several pivotal scenes in the show. The estate’s picturesque lochs, rolling hills, and majestic mountains provided a stunning backdrop for episodes featuring Prince Philip (played by Matt Smith) and Queen Elizabeth II.
The Crown also filmed on location at Highclere Castle, a 19th-century stately home in Hampshire, England. This grand estate, known as the real-life Downton Abbey, was used to depict various royal residences throughout the series. The castle’s opulent interiors, sprawling gardens, and scenic countryside views added to the show’s sense of authenticity.
From the grandeur of Windsor Castle to the tranquility of Balmoral Estate, these filming locations brought the British monarchy to life in a way that felt both regal and intimate. By exploring these real-life settings, we gain a deeper understanding of the characters and events that shape this captivating series.
As we’ve explored the fascinating world of Netflix production filming locations, it’s clear that these sites play a crucial role in shaping our viewing experiences. From the sun-kissed beaches of ‘Stranger Things’ to the mystical landscapes of ‘The Witcher’, these locations transport us into new and exciting worlds. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about the making of your favorite show, this journey through filming locations has hopefully sparked your imagination and inspired your own exploration of the world beyond the screen.