The central property prominently featured in the 1995 film Something to Talk About is the Anderson family’s horse farm, a picturesque estate serving as both a home and a business, profoundly influencing the characters’ lives and the unfolding drama. More than just a backdrop, the farm itself is a character, representing tradition, familial obligations, and the suffocating expectations of small-town Southern life.
The Allure of the Anderson Farm: A Detailed Look
The Anderson farm, with its sprawling fields, meticulously maintained stables, and charmingly aged farmhouse, is more than just scenery. It is a meticulously crafted representation of the Southern ideal of landed gentry, although one facing the pressures of modern life. The farm visually symbolizes the family’s legacy, their deep roots in the community, and the burden that comes with maintaining such a prominent position.
The Farmhouse as a Symbol of Stability and Constraint
The farmhouse, in particular, plays a crucial role. While aesthetically pleasing, it also represents the stifling environment within which Grace Bichon (Julia Roberts) feels trapped. The meticulously arranged interiors, likely overseen by her mother, Georgia (Gena Rowlands), reflect the expectations of a perfect wife and mother, expectations Grace increasingly chafes against. The house, therefore, becomes a visual manifestation of her internal struggle.
The Horse Stables: A Family Business and a Source of Conflict
The horse stables are not just a picturesque element; they are the heart of the Anderson family’s livelihood. Running the stables is a constant source of tension between Grace and her husband, Eddie (Dennis Quaid). His dedication to the business often overshadows his attention to his family, contributing to the marital discord that forms the central conflict of the film. The success and survival of the farm business are deeply interwoven with the personal relationships of the family members, highlighting the complex dynamics at play.
The Land Itself: A Legacy Under Pressure
The vast acreage of the farm underscores the Andersons’ social standing but also hints at potential financial anxieties. Maintaining such a large property requires significant resources, and the pressure to maintain this lifestyle likely contributes to the stress within the family. The land represents the enduring legacy of the family, but also the potential for its loss if they fail to adapt to changing times.
Behind the Scenes: The Real Location
While the movie is set in a fictional Southern town, the production team chose a real location that embodied the desired aesthetic. The actual farm used for filming Something to Talk About is located in Savannah, Georgia. The specific property, known as the Herty House, is a private residence that retains much of the charm and character showcased in the film. Visiting is not permitted without prior arrangement, but the property’s exterior can be glimpsed from public roads.
The Importance of Location Scouting
The selection of the Herty House wasn’t arbitrary. The production team undertook extensive location scouting to find a property that perfectly embodied the Southern charm and grandeur necessary to convey the film’s themes. The chosen location provided not only visual appeal but also a sense of authenticity that contributed significantly to the film’s overall impact.
The Herty House Today
The Herty House remains a beautiful example of Southern architecture and continues to be maintained by its current owners. Its association with Something to Talk About adds a layer of intrigue to the property, making it a point of interest for film enthusiasts visiting Savannah. While it is a private residence, the property serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of classic Southern style and the power of location in filmmaking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Property in Something to Talk About
Here are some frequently asked questions relating to the property featured in the film, Something to Talk About.
FAQ 1: Was the Farm a Working Horse Farm During Filming?
While the Herty House is indeed located on a large property, it wasn’t necessarily a fully operational horse farm at the time of filming. The production team likely supplemented the existing facilities with additional set dressing and horse wranglers to create the illusion of a thriving horse breeding business.
FAQ 2: Did Julia Roberts Actually Ride Horses on the Farm?
Yes, Julia Roberts did participate in some of the riding scenes. She reportedly took riding lessons to prepare for the role, although professional stunt doubles were likely used for more challenging sequences. The authenticity of the riding scenes contributes to the film’s overall believability.
FAQ 3: How Did the Producers Find the Herty House?
Finding the perfect location involved extensive research and location scouting. Film production companies often employ location managers who specialize in identifying properties that meet the specific aesthetic and logistical requirements of a project. The Herty House likely stood out due to its historic charm, Southern architectural style, and surrounding landscape.
FAQ 4: Was the Interior of the House Also Used for Filming?
Yes, while some scenes may have been filmed on sound stages, a significant portion of the interior shots were filmed inside the Herty House itself. This contributes to the film’s sense of authenticity and realism.
FAQ 5: Does the Herty House Offer Tours to the Public?
Unfortunately, the Herty House is a private residence and does not typically offer tours to the public. However, its exterior can be viewed from nearby public roads, allowing fans of the film to catch a glimpse of the iconic property.
FAQ 6: What Architectural Style is the Herty House?
The Herty House is primarily an example of Southern Colonial architecture, with elements of Greek Revival influence. Its symmetrical façade, large columns, and wide verandas are characteristic of this style, contributing to its visual appeal and Southern charm.
FAQ 7: How Did the Property Contribute to the Film’s Themes?
The Anderson farm serves as a potent symbol of tradition, societal expectations, and the complexities of family relationships. The vastness of the property highlights the family’s prominence, while the upkeep underscores the burden of maintaining their social standing.
FAQ 8: Were Any Modifications Made to the Property for Filming?
It’s likely that the production team made minor modifications to the Herty House to suit the film’s aesthetic. This could include repainting certain areas, adding or removing furniture, and adjusting the landscaping to create the desired look and feel.
FAQ 9: How Much Would a Property Like the Herty House Cost Today?
The value of a property like the Herty House in Savannah, Georgia, would be substantial. It would depend on various factors, including the size of the land, the condition of the house, and the current real estate market. Properties of this caliber can easily fetch several million dollars.
FAQ 10: Were Other Locations Used in the Film Besides the Herty House?
Yes, while the Herty House served as the primary location, other locations in and around Savannah, Georgia, were also used for filming various scenes, including the town scenes and specific interior shots that might have required a sound stage.
FAQ 11: Has the Herty House Been Featured in Other Films or TV Shows?
While the Herty House is most famous for its appearance in Something to Talk About, it’s possible that it has been used as a filming location for other projects as well, though it’s not widely documented. Its architectural beauty makes it an attractive option for filmmakers seeking a classic Southern setting.
FAQ 12: What is the Significance of the Horse Farm Setting in the Context of the Story?
The horse farm setting is crucial to the story as it highlights the confined social world Grace inhabits and the pressure she faces to conform to traditional gender roles. The farm represents the family’s legacy and financial stability, but it also traps Grace in a life she increasingly questions. Her rebellion against these expectations is directly linked to her desire to break free from the constraints of her environment.