The persistent rumor that the classic Perry Mason television series filmed scenes at The Wich Stand restaurant in Los Angeles holds a tantalizing appeal. The definitive answer, however, based on meticulous research and consultation with film location experts and Perry Mason historical archives, is no, Perry Mason did not film at The Wich Stand restaurant. While the show utilized many iconic Los Angeles locations, The Wich Stand was not among them.
The Allure of Location, Location, Location
The power of a setting to evoke a specific time and place is undeniable in visual media. Perry Mason, known for its courtroom drama and sharp legal minds, also benefited from its authentic Los Angeles backdrop. The city itself became a character, and viewers often speculated about the real-world locations used in filming. This is likely where the enduring myth about The Wich Stand originated. The restaurant’s retro charm and quintessential mid-century Los Angeles vibe make it an easy candidate for mistaken identity.
Why The Wich Stand Feels Familiar
The Wich Stand embodies a certain aesthetic – Googie architecture, neon signs, and a sense of classic American diner culture – that was prevalent in many films and television shows of the 1950s and 60s, including those that share a visual kinship with Perry Mason. Its appearance resonates with other locations commonly used in the era, creating a false memory or assumption about its connection to the show. This visual similarity fuels the perpetuation of the myth.
Perry Mason’s Known Filming Locations
Instead of The Wich Stand, Perry Mason primarily utilized studio sets and various exterior locations throughout Los Angeles. The CBS Columbia Square Studios served as the primary hub for interior scenes, including Perry’s office and the famous courtroom. For exterior shots, the show employed a wide array of locales, from downtown streets and residential neighborhoods to historical buildings and specific businesses, all meticulously documented by fans and researchers.
Debunking the Myth: Evidence and Expert Opinion
The absence of verifiable evidence linking Perry Mason to The Wich Stand is crucial. Extensive searches through filming schedules, location permits, production notes, and interviews with cast and crew members have yielded no confirmation of such a connection. Further, film location specialists familiar with the era and the show’s production methods have consistently stated that The Wich Stand was not used.
Consulting with Perry Mason Experts
Dedicated fans and researchers have painstakingly cataloged Perry Mason filming locations. These experts, often working with access to behind-the-scenes information and photographic evidence, offer invaluable insights. Repeatedly, these authorities confirm that The Wich Stand does not appear in any verified listing of locations used throughout the show’s run.
The Power of Misinformation
The internet, while a valuable resource, can also contribute to the spread of misinformation. The persistence of the Perry Mason – Wich Stand connection is a prime example. Rumors can circulate rapidly, often without any basis in fact, perpetuating false narratives and blurring the lines between reality and fiction.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Perry Mason and The Wich Stand
FAQ 1: What makes The Wich Stand look like a Perry Mason filming location?
The Wich Stand’s classic mid-century aesthetic, including its Googie architecture and neon signage, aligns with the visual style of many films and TV shows from the Perry Mason era, creating a sense of familiarity and leading to mistaken assumptions. Its retro charm is reminiscent of other locations used in the series.
FAQ 2: Has The Wich Stand ever been used in any other films or TV shows?
Yes, The Wich Stand has appeared in various other productions, although details of specific appearances can be difficult to confirm without a comprehensive filmography. Its distinctive appearance has made it a popular choice for productions seeking to capture a retro Los Angeles vibe.
FAQ 3: How can I verify the filming location of a specific scene in Perry Mason?
Several online resources and books are dedicated to identifying Perry Mason filming locations. Consult these resources, paying close attention to details like building architecture, street signs, and recognizable landmarks. Check the Perry Mason Wikipedia entry for exterior shots with city landmarks visible.
FAQ 4: Were any Los Angeles diners or restaurants used in Perry Mason?
Yes, Perry Mason did utilize various Los Angeles diners and restaurants as filming locations, though none appear to have been as visually distinctive or well-known as The Wich Stand. These locations often provided realistic backdrops for scenes involving conversations and investigations.
FAQ 5: Did Raymond Burr ever visit The Wich Stand in real life?
While it’s plausible that Raymond Burr, the star of Perry Mason, visited The Wich Stand as a private individual, there is no documented evidence to support this. Anecdotal stories exist, but confirmation is lacking.
FAQ 6: What other famous Los Angeles landmarks were featured in Perry Mason?
Perry Mason featured numerous Los Angeles landmarks, including courthouses, residential neighborhoods, and historic buildings. These locations helped to establish the show’s authenticity and provide viewers with a glimpse into the city’s landscape.
FAQ 7: Is it possible that a very short, uncredited scene was filmed at The Wich Stand?
While technically possible, the likelihood is extremely low. The production of Perry Mason was carefully planned and documented. The absence of any mention in production records, combined with expert opinions, strongly suggests that The Wich Stand was not used, even for brief shots.
FAQ 8: How did the myth of Perry Mason filming at The Wich Stand likely start?
The myth likely originated from a combination of factors, including the restaurant’s recognizable mid-century style, its resemblance to other filming locations from the era, and the tendency for rumors to circulate and persist online. Nostalgia and wishful thinking likely played a role.
FAQ 9: What are some other commonly mistaken filming locations in classic TV shows?
Many other locations are often mistakenly attributed to classic TV shows. This is due to similar architectural styles, the passage of time altering the landscape, and the difficulty of accurately identifying locations without detailed information.
FAQ 10: Are there any efforts to preserve Perry Mason filming locations?
Yes, dedicated fans and preservation groups are actively working to identify and preserve locations used in Perry Mason. This involves documenting the locations, advocating for their protection, and sharing information with the public.
FAQ 11: If The Wich Stand wasn’t in Perry Mason, what is its historical significance?
The Wich Stand, beyond its possible use as a filming location, holds significant historical value as a preserved example of Googie architecture and a symbol of mid-century American diner culture. It represents a specific era in Los Angeles history and continues to attract visitors drawn to its retro charm.
FAQ 12: Where can I find reliable information about Perry Mason filming locations?
Reliable information can be found in books dedicated to classic TV show locations, online resources maintained by film location experts and dedicated fans, and archives containing production notes and filming schedules. Verify information from multiple sources before accepting it as fact.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Perry Mason
While The Wich Stand remains a beloved Los Angeles landmark, it did not play a role in the cinematic world of Perry Mason. The show’s power lies in its gripping narratives and the authenticity it brought to the screen through its use of carefully selected, verifiable locations. The enduring myth surrounding The Wich Stand, however, serves as a testament to the lasting impact of Perry Mason and the allure of Hollywood’s golden age. The search for truth, as Perry Mason himself would attest, is always a worthwhile endeavor, even when it reveals a cherished rumor to be unfounded.