As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Stranger Things 5 this November, it's an opportune moment to revisit the roots of this iconic series by exploring the filming locations of the show’s inaugural season. The Duffer Brothers’ vision for Stranger Things leverages a nostalgic 1980s vibe and supernatural elements, all grounded in the familiar yet fictional Hawkins, Indiana. However, the journey to find the perfect setting started far from Indiana, making it a captivating tale in its own right.
Initially, the Duffer Brothers envisioned shooting Stranger Things near Long Island, New York, inspired by the Montauk Project conspiracy theories. However, November 2015 brought challenges typical of cold-weather filming, prompting them to pivot towards the warmer landscapes of Atlanta, Georgia.
“It was difficult to shoot in Long Island in the cold weather,” the brothers reflected, which ultimately shaped a new direction for the show.
This change provided them with the opportunity to scout locations that not just fit the narrative but reminded them of their own childhoods in North Carolina. This joy of nostalgia led to a perfect match for the fictional town of Hawkins. Filming officially began in Atlanta in November 2015, where the Duffer Brothers, alongside producer Shawn Levy, worked meticulously to create each episode's unique atmosphere.
One standout location, the fictional Hawkins National Laboratory, became synonymous with the eerie and mysterious tone of the series. It was filmed at the historically rich Georgia Mental Health Institute, capturing an essence that parallels the chilling narrative of the show’s supernatural themes.
While Hawkins is a fictional town, much of its likeness was drawn from real locations in and around Jackson, Georgia. The Duffer Brothers strategically chose to film at various sites that reflected the small-town dynamics and nostalgia pivotal to their storytelling. Iconic scenes in schools were filmed at Patrick Henry High School in Stockbridge, which served as a backdrop for the characters' adolescent experiences, from dances to critical plot developments.
Moreover, a plethora of other noteworthy locations include the Bellwood Quarry, Emory University's Continuing Education Department, and the former city hall in Douglasville. These diverse sites helped form a vibrant landscape that contributed to Hawkins’ identity, capturing both the charm and eeriness that fans have come to love. The picturesque settings in Fayetteville, Conyers, and Stone Mountain Park also lent the show an authentic Southern aesthetic that contrasts sharply with its supernatural themes.
The production process for Stranger Things was extensive, showcasing the lengths to which the Duffer Brothers and their team went to bring Hawkins to life. Filming wrapped up in early 2016, but the legacy of those weeks of production resonates deeply within the show's immersive narrative. Utilizing top-notch technology, the Duffer Brothers shot the series using RED Epic Dragon cameras, ensuring that every visual element enhanced the storytelling.
Even after filming Season 3, discussions arose regarding the fate of iconic sets like the Starcourt Mall. Although producers considered making it a permanent attraction for dedicated fans, they ultimately decided against it - a move that underscores the show's unique ability to create fleeting yet profound moments for its viewers.
As we await Stranger Things 5, revisiting the origins of Hawkins through these filming locations not only enriches our appreciation of the series but also highlights the careful craftsmanship that brings such nostalgic worlds to life. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the Upside Down, the story of Stranger Things continues to unfold, demonstrating that great narratives often find their home in the most unexpected places.
