While the Netflix hit series “Outer Banks” is steeped in the sun-drenched beauty and unique culture of North Carolina’s barrier islands, the show itself was predominantly filmed in South Carolina due to a confluence of economic factors and North Carolina’s controversial House Bill 2 (HB2), also known as the “bathroom bill,” which led to production companies seeking more welcoming filming locations. This decision sparked considerable debate and continues to be a point of contention amongst locals and fans alike.
The Allure of the Carolina Coast: Setting the Scene
The Outer Banks of North Carolina (OBX) possess an undeniable appeal. A string of barrier islands stretching over 200 miles, the OBX is characterized by windswept beaches, historic lighthouses, quaint fishing villages, and a rich maritime history. This distinct atmosphere, coupled with tales of shipwrecks and pirates, made it the perfect setting for a teen drama centered around treasure hunting and class disparity. The creators envisioned a place where the wealthy “Kooks” and working-class “Pogues” coexisted (and often clashed), mirroring the real-life social dynamics found along the Carolina coast.
However, the visual inspiration didn’t translate into actual filming locations. While some establishing shots might showcase the real OBX, the bulk of the production landed much further south.
The HB2 Hurdle: A Turning Point for North Carolina
In 2016, North Carolina enacted House Bill 2, a law that mandated individuals to use public restrooms that aligned with the gender assigned at birth. This legislation sparked widespread protests and boycotts, with many corporations and organizations pulling their business from the state. The entertainment industry was no exception.
For “Outer Banks,” the HB2 controversy played a significant role in the decision to relocate filming. The show’s creators, committed to diversity and inclusion, felt uncomfortable filming in a state with legislation that discriminated against the LGBTQ+ community. This ethical stance, combined with the potential financial repercussions of filming in a state facing boycotts, ultimately steered the production towards South Carolina.
South Carolina’s Sweet Incentives: The Economics of Filmmaking
Beyond the social and political considerations, South Carolina offered more attractive financial incentives for film productions. States often compete fiercely to attract film and television projects, recognizing the economic benefits that come with them – job creation, increased tourism, and revenue for local businesses.
South Carolina’s film tax credits and rebates were simply more competitive than those offered by North Carolina at the time. These incentives significantly reduced the production costs, making South Carolina a more fiscally responsible choice for Netflix and the show’s producers. The ability to stretch the budget further allowed for more elaborate sets, higher-quality production values, and ultimately, a more compelling viewing experience.
The Lure of Charleston
The filming location of choice in South Carolina became Charleston and its surrounding areas. The city offered a diverse range of landscapes that could convincingly stand in for the Outer Banks. From the historic architecture of downtown Charleston to the sprawling beaches of Kiawah Island and the marshlands of Mount Pleasant, the production team found everything they needed to bring the fictional world of “Outer Banks” to life.
Moreover, Charleston boasted a well-established film industry infrastructure, including experienced crews, readily available equipment, and a supportive local government. This made the logistics of filming significantly easier and more efficient.
FAQ: Unveiling the Mysteries Behind the Production Choices
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the filming locations of “Outer Banks”:
1. Did any filming actually take place in the Outer Banks?
Yes, but only minimally. Some aerial shots and establishing shots were filmed in the Outer Banks to capture the essence of the region. These were primarily used to establish the setting and create a sense of place. However, the vast majority of scenes were filmed elsewhere.
2. Could North Carolina have done anything to keep the production?
Potentially. Addressing the HB2 controversy more decisively and offering more competitive film incentives might have swayed the production team. However, the combination of ethical concerns and economic realities made it a difficult battle for North Carolina to win.
3. How did the production team make South Carolina look like the Outer Banks?
Cleverly! They relied on skilled set design, cinematography, and editing to create the illusion of the OBX. Similar coastal environments and careful attention to detail helped to maintain the authenticity of the setting, even though the actual locations were different.
4. Are there any noticeable differences between the real Outer Banks and the show’s portrayal?
Yes. Locals often point out subtle discrepancies, such as the specific architecture, the type of vegetation, and the overall landscape. However, for most viewers, these differences are not readily apparent.
5. How did the locals in Charleston react to the filming?
Generally, the locals in Charleston welcomed the production, recognizing the economic benefits it brought to the community. However, there were also concerns about increased traffic and disruption to daily life.
6. Has the show boosted tourism to the Outer Banks despite not being filmed there?
Interestingly, yes. The show’s popularity has sparked increased interest in the Outer Banks, with many fans wanting to visit the real locations that inspired the series, even though they weren’t actually used for filming.
7. What are the financial incentives for filming in South Carolina?
South Carolina offers a refundable tax credit of up to 25% of qualified production expenses, with additional incentives for using local talent and facilities. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of a film or television project.
8. Has HB2 been repealed, and has it impacted filming in North Carolina since?
HB2 was partially repealed and replaced with a new law in 2017, but the impact on North Carolina’s film industry lingered. While some productions have returned, the state continues to face challenges in attracting major projects compared to states with more robust incentive programs and inclusive policies.
9. Did the actors ever visit the real Outer Banks?
Some of the cast members reportedly visited the Outer Banks for research and to experience the local culture, but the visits were not directly related to filming.
10. What other popular shows have been filmed in Charleston?
Charleston has become a popular filming location for various television shows and movies, including “The Notebook,” “Army Wives,” and “The Righteous Gemstones.”
11. Does the show acknowledge that it’s not filmed in the Outer Banks?
The show doesn’t explicitly acknowledge that it’s not filmed in the Outer Banks within the narrative. However, behind-the-scenes information and media coverage have made the filming locations widely known.
12. Will future seasons be filmed in South Carolina, or is there a chance they could move to North Carolina?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans to move filming to North Carolina. The existing infrastructure and financial incentives in South Carolina make it the most likely location for future seasons. However, changing political climates and incentive programs could potentially influence future decisions.
Beyond the Camera: The Legacy of Location
The decision to film “Outer Banks” in South Carolina highlights the complex interplay of economic, social, and political factors that influence location choices in the entertainment industry. While the show may not have been filmed in its namesake location, it has undoubtedly brought attention to the beauty and charm of the Carolina coast, sparking conversations about the importance of inclusive policies and competitive financial incentives in attracting major film productions. The series, regardless of its filming locale, continues to capture the hearts of viewers worldwide with its thrilling storyline, compelling characters, and the timeless allure of treasure hunting in a coastal paradise.