The dark secrets of Millwood, Pennsylvania, in Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin weren’t actually conjured up in the Keystone State. Instead, the series found its menacing backdrop primarily in the picturesque yet eerie landscape of Upstate New York, specifically in the Hudson Valley region. This choice offered the production team a visual palette that blended small-town charm with chilling isolation, perfectly capturing the atmosphere of the show.
The Allure of the Hudson Valley
Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin sought to differentiate itself from its predecessor, not just in tone and plot, but also visually. The Hudson Valley provided the ideal setting, offering a unique blend of historical architecture, dense forests, and sprawling landscapes that contributed significantly to the show’s unsettling ambiance. The producers consciously opted for locations that enhanced the sense of dread and suspense, integral to the PLL universe.
Specific Locations of Interest
Several key locations contributed to the show’s visual identity:
- Greene Medical Center: Represented by the Mid-Orange Correctional Facility in Warwick, New York. Its imposing structure and history lent a palpable sense of dread and confinement, essential for the hospital’s scenes.
- Millwood High: Filmed at Kingston High School in Kingston, New York. The iconic school building provided the authentic look and feel of a small-town high school, serving as a central hub for many of the characters’ interactions and storylines.
- The Steel Mill: Various industrial locations in the Hudson Valley region stood in for the derelict steel mill, a symbol of Millwood’s decline and a recurring location for suspenseful encounters.
- The “A” Lair (or Lairs): These varied depending on the specific scenes, but frequently incorporated abandoned buildings and warehouses located throughout the Hudson Valley. The production team carefully selected locations that maximized the sense of isolation and danger.
Behind the Scenes: Creating Millwood’s Atmosphere
The production team meticulously transformed the existing locations into the fictional town of Millwood. This involved significant set dressing, prop placement, and even modifications to building facades. Their goal was to create a cohesive visual narrative that reflected Millwood’s history, its secrets, and the psychological state of its residents. The choice of locations, combined with skillful cinematography, contributed significantly to the show’s overall sense of unease and suspense. The strategic use of lighting and camera angles amplified the inherent eeriness of the Hudson Valley locations, effectively transporting viewers into the heart of Millwood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about the filming locations of Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin:
1. Was any of the show filmed in Pennsylvania?
No, while the show is set in the fictional town of Millwood, Pennsylvania, all of the principal photography took place in Upstate New York, specifically the Hudson Valley region.
2. Why was Upstate New York chosen over Pennsylvania?
The Hudson Valley offered a more visually compelling and diverse range of locations that suited the show’s aesthetic. The region’s blend of small-town charm and industrial decay provided the perfect backdrop for the dark secrets of Millwood. Moreover, financial incentives and logistical considerations likely played a role in the decision.
3. Is it possible to visit any of the filming locations?
Yes, many of the exterior locations, such as Kingston High School and the Mid-Orange Correctional Facility (though you cannot enter the latter), are accessible to the public. However, it’s crucial to respect private property and any posted restrictions when visiting these sites.
4. What was the most challenging filming location?
According to various reports and behind-the-scenes glimpses, filming at the abandoned steel mill locations posed significant challenges due to safety concerns and logistical complexities. Securing and preparing these derelict sites required considerable effort.
5. How did the show’s creators transform the Hudson Valley into Millwood?
The production team employed a variety of techniques, including extensive set dressing, prop placement, and even CGI enhancements, to transform the existing locations into the fictional town of Millwood. They also carefully selected camera angles and lighting to create the desired atmosphere.
6. Did the original Pretty Little Liars film in the same locations?
No. The original Pretty Little Liars series was primarily filmed in Los Angeles, California. Original Sin intentionally sought a different aesthetic and ambiance, necessitating a change in filming locations.
7. How did the Hudson Valley community react to the filming?
The filming of Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin brought a significant economic boost to the Hudson Valley region. Local businesses and residents generally welcomed the production, and the show provided opportunities for local talent and crew members.
8. Were any local residents cast as extras in the show?
Yes, the production team actively sought out local residents to serve as extras in various scenes, providing them with a unique opportunity to participate in the filming process.
9. How long did the filming process take in the Hudson Valley?
The filming of the first season of Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin took place over several months in the Hudson Valley, with the production team spending a significant amount of time scouting and preparing the various locations.
10. What other movies or TV shows have been filmed in the Hudson Valley?
The Hudson Valley has a rich history of film and television production. Notable productions filmed in the region include I Know What You Did Last Summer, A Quiet Place, The Undoing, and numerous independent films. Its diverse landscape and proximity to New York City make it a popular filming location.
11. Did the cast enjoy filming in the Hudson Valley?
Based on interviews and social media posts, the cast appeared to enjoy their time filming in the Hudson Valley. They often shared photos of themselves exploring the region’s natural beauty and historical landmarks.
12. Will future seasons of Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin (or its eventual successor, Summer School) continue to film in the Hudson Valley?
Given the established infrastructure and the region’s suitability for the show’s aesthetic, it’s highly likely that future seasons, including Summer School, will continue to utilize the Hudson Valley as their primary filming location. The area has proven to be a valuable asset in creating the show’s unique and unsettling atmosphere. The creators have expressed satisfaction with the region, solidifying its role in the Pretty Little Liars universe.