Misleading Settings in Film and TV: An Investigative Look

Have you ever watched a movie or TV show and found yourself questioning the authenticity of its setting? This phenomenon is more common than one might think, especially when budget constraints or creative decisions lead to films and series being shot in locations that don’t quite match their stated settings. In this article, we will delve into some notable examples that showcase these discrepancies and explore the reasons behind them.

Breaking Bad

Though set in Albuquerque, New Mexico, certain Breaking Bad scenes were filmed in locations that don’t resemble the area, including parts of California. The desert landscape in the show is often more arid than what one would see in Albuquerque. This mismatch can lead viewers to wonder if Walter White and company are ever truly in New Mexico.

The X-Files

Filmed primarily in British Columbia, Canada, numerous episodes of The X-Files take place in various parts of the United States. Despite the intended settings, the distinctly different landscapes used during filming can make it clear that the show is not always as geographically authentic as it claims to be.

The Twilight Zone

Many The Twilight Zone episodes, despite claiming to take place in specific American towns, were filmed in California. The chosen locations often showcase landscapes that don’t match the intended setting, raising questions about the show’s authenticity and consistency.

The Hills Have Eyes

Set in the desert of the American Southwest, The Hills Have Eyes frequently features desert scenes. However, some of these scenes were filmed in California, leading to a geographical mismatch that can be obvious to keen observers.

Superman: The Movie

While the movie is set in Metropolis, numerous scenes were filmed in New York City. Additionally, some shots include areas that don’t match the fictional city’s description. This can create a confusing sense of location for viewers, especially those familiar with the city’s architecture and landmarks.

The O.C.

Though set in Orange County, California, some filming took place in Los Angeles. This can lead to occasional discrepancies in the landscape, albeit subtle in most cases.

Common Causes of Discrepancies

These examples illustrate how production decisions and financial constraints can affect the visual authenticity of a setting. Filmmakers often choose locations based on available budgets, accessibility, and logistics, which can sometimes result in discrepancies between the stated and actual settings.

My Personal Example: Eurotrip

Eurotrip, while ostensibly a European adventure, is much more accurately described as a Prague trip. The show appears to traverse Europe, but most scenes are filmed in Prague, with only occasional shots of famous landmarks, such as the Charles Bridge in Scotland, appearing in the background. This is a clear indication of the show’s geographical mismatch, and it adds to the overall comedic effect of the series.

Office Space and The BLADE Series

Another example worth mentioning is the film Office Space, where certain scenes were filmed in Texas, yet the background shots don’t resemble the stated location, particularly when it comes to the backdrop used when the characters smash the printer.

In the The BLADE series, the setting is clearly somewhere, but the background shots are in Vancouver, with the Marine Building prominently featured. This discrepancy highlights the impact of budget-driven filming choices on the authenticity of a show’s setting.

Conclusion

Misleading settings in film and TV can be a fascinating topic for both fans and professionals alike. These examples demonstrate the potential discrepancies between what a show claims to be and what it actually is, leading to an intriguing exploration of the creative and financial considerations behind such choices. Whether it’s for comedic effect, budget constraints, or artistic freedom, understanding these decisions can provide new insights into the production of our favorite movies and TV shows.