The poignant “This Is Us” Super Bowl episode, a cornerstone of the show’s emotional narrative, wasn’t filmed during an actual Super Bowl. Instead, production occurred over several days leading up to the show’s Season 2 premiere in September 2017, allowing meticulous recreation of the pivotal event and its devastating aftermath.
The Super Bowl Episode: A Deep Dive
The Super Bowl episode, titled “Super Bowl Sunday,” is arguably one of the most significant and emotionally resonant installments in the entire “This Is Us” series. It reveals the circumstances surrounding Jack Pearson’s death, answering a question that haunted viewers since the show’s inception. Recreating the Super Bowl itself, however, required careful planning and execution far removed from the actual sporting event.
Recreating the Atmosphere
Filming didn’t take place on a single day, let alone during a real Super Bowl. The production team worked diligently to capture the feeling of a typical Super Bowl party, meticulously recreating the atmosphere and details that viewers would recognize. This involved sourcing period-appropriate props, clothing, and even television commercials to enhance the authenticity of the scenes. The commitment to detail paid off, creating a believable and deeply affecting viewing experience.
Multiple Filming Locations
The episode utilized various filming locations to portray different scenes, including the Pearson family home, the hospital, and the auto repair shop where Jack worked. These locations were likely scouted and prepared weeks or even months in advance, with filming schedules coordinated to maximize efficiency. The fragmented nature of the narrative, jumping between different time periods, also necessitated careful organization and continuity.
The Emotional Impact
Beyond the logistical challenges of recreating the Super Bowl party, the episode’s success hinged on the actors’ ability to convey the raw emotions of the characters. The performances, particularly those of Milo Ventimiglia (Jack), Mandy Moore (Rebecca), and the rest of the Pearson family, were widely praised for their authenticity and depth. This emotional resonance contributed significantly to the episode’s lasting impact on viewers.
Frequently Asked Questions About the “This Is Us” Super Bowl Episode
Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the details surrounding the “This Is Us” Super Bowl episode:
Q1: Was the entire episode filmed in chronological order?
No. Like most television shows, the episode was filmed out of chronological order based on location and actor availability. Scenes from different time periods were likely shot on different days or weeks.
Q2: Did they use real Super Bowl footage in the episode?
Likely not extensively, due to copyright restrictions and the desire for complete control over the visuals. They likely recreated key moments and utilized stock footage sparingly, prioritizing original content.
Q3: How long did it take to film the entire episode?
While the exact timeframe is unavailable, it’s reasonable to estimate that filming for the “Super Bowl Sunday” episode took several days, if not a couple of weeks, due to the complexity of the scenes and the number of locations involved. Pre-production, including set design, casting, and costuming, likely took considerably longer.
Q4: Where was the episode primarily filmed?
“This Is Us” was primarily filmed in Los Angeles, California. Specific locations used for the episode would have included studio sets and on-location shooting in areas around Los Angeles that could convincingly stand in for Pittsburgh and other settings.
Q5: How did they create the flashback scenes?
The show used a combination of techniques to create the flashback scenes, including costuming, makeup, and set design to evoke different time periods. Changes in hairstyles, wardrobe styles, and set dressing helped transport viewers back to the 1970s and 1990s.
Q6: Did any actual Super Bowl commercials appear in the episode?
It’s unlikely that real Super Bowl commercials were used, again due to copyright issues. The show likely created original commercials that mimicked the style and tone of Super Bowl ads from the relevant time periods.
Q7: What kind of research did the production team conduct to ensure accuracy?
The production team likely conducted extensive research to ensure the accuracy of the historical details in the episode. This would have involved studying fashion trends, technology, and cultural events from the 1970s and 1990s to create a believable and authentic portrayal of those time periods. They may have also consulted with period specialists.
Q8: Was the script written before or after the Super Bowl that aired in February 2017?
The script was almost certainly written before the February 2017 Super Bowl. The writers knew the general direction of the story arc well in advance and planned the details of the episode accordingly.
Q9: How did the actors prepare for such emotionally demanding scenes?
The actors likely worked closely with the writers and directors to understand the nuances of their characters and the emotional weight of the scenes. They may have also engaged in personal preparation techniques, such as method acting or emotional recall, to tap into the necessary emotions. Rehearsals were undoubtedly crucial for honing the performances and ensuring a cohesive and impactful portrayal.
Q10: Why was the reveal of Jack’s death so important to the show?
The mystery surrounding Jack’s death was a central plot point from the beginning of the series. Revealing the circumstances provided closure for viewers and allowed the show to explore the long-term impact of grief and loss on the Pearson family. It also allowed the show to delve deeper into the complexities of Jack’s character and his relationships with his loved ones.
Q11: How did the episode impact the overall narrative of “This Is Us”?
The “Super Bowl Sunday” episode served as a turning point in the series, providing a foundation for understanding the characters’ motivations and behaviors in subsequent seasons. It also solidified the show’s reputation for emotional storytelling and its ability to tackle complex and relatable themes. The episode heightened the show’s emotional stakes and deepened viewers’ investment in the Pearson family’s journey.
Q12: Can I watch behind-the-scenes footage of the episode’s filming?
While specific behind-the-scenes footage dedicated solely to the “Super Bowl Sunday” episode might be limited, snippets likely exist in various promotional materials, interviews with the cast and crew, and special features on DVD or streaming releases. A general search for “This Is Us behind the scenes” may yield some relevant content. Looking for interviews with directors and production designers could also provide valuable insights.