Filming for Game of Thrones Season 6 commenced in late July 2015 and concluded in December 2015, spanning several months of rigorous production across diverse international locations. This extensive schedule was necessary to bring the epic scale and intricate plotlines of George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” to life on screen.
The Long Winter of Production: A Detailed Timeline
The making of a Game of Thrones season is a logistical and creative behemoth. Season 6, in particular, presented unique challenges, as it was the first season to significantly diverge from the published source material, requiring meticulous planning and execution. To understand when they filmed, it’s crucial to grasp the how and where.
July 2015: The First Shots
The cameras first rolled in Belfast, Northern Ireland, which served as the primary production hub for the series. Early filming likely focused on scenes within Castle Black and other Northern settings, crucial to setting the stage for Jon Snow’s resurrection (or not!). Belfast’s Paint Hall studios, the show’s long-time home, were a hive of activity.
August – November 2015: Expanding the Landscape
As August progressed, filming expanded beyond Northern Ireland. Spain, particularly locations in Girona and Peñíscola, once again stood in for warmer climates like Braavos and Meereen, crucial to Daenerys’ journey and Arya Stark’s training. Filming crews were spotted constructing elaborate sets and conducting extensive location shoots, often involving large numbers of extras. Dubrovnik, Croatia, the iconic King’s Landing, was also bustling with activity, filming pivotal scenes related to Cersei Lannister’s power plays.
December 2015: Wrapping Up the Ice and Fire
By December 2015, principal photography was winding down. The final weeks were likely dedicated to completing remaining scenes in Belfast and potentially reshoots or pick-ups necessary to ensure continuity and polish. Post-production, including visual effects (VFX), editing, and sound design, then commenced, a process that took several months before the season’s premiere in April 2016.
FAQs: Peeling Back the Layers of Season 6 Production
Here are frequently asked questions about the filming of Game of Thrones Season 6, providing a deeper dive into the production process and the challenges faced.
Q1: Why did filming take so long?
The sheer scale and complexity of Game of Thrones demanded an extended filming schedule. Multiple storylines unfolding across vast geographical locations required separate units shooting simultaneously. Intricate costumes, elaborate sets, and extensive VFX all contributed to the time-consuming nature of production. Furthermore, securing and preparing international locations, coordinating large casts and crews, and adapting George R.R. Martin’s intricate narrative into a visual medium were all significant undertakings. Filming duration reflected the ambition of the show.
Q2: What were the main filming locations for Season 6?
Key filming locations included:
- Northern Ireland: Belfast (Paint Hall studios and various outdoor locations), serving as Winterfell, Castle Black, and other Northern regions.
- Spain: Girona, Peñíscola, Almería, and other locations representing Braavos, Meereen, and Dorne.
- Croatia: Dubrovnik (King’s Landing) and Split.
- Iceland: Used for scenes Beyond the Wall.
Q3: Did the change in source material impact the filming schedule?
Yes, significantly. Season 6 was the first season to largely surpass the published books in terms of plot. This meant the showrunners had to rely on outlines and briefings from George R.R. Martin, which likely introduced additional planning and logistical complexities. The divergence from the books required a higher degree of creative problem-solving and adaptation during filming.
Q4: How many episodes did they film per month?
It’s difficult to pinpoint the exact number of episodes filmed per month. Production didn’t necessarily proceed linearly, filming scenes from different episodes concurrently. The pace also varied depending on the complexity of the scenes being shot. Some episodes with heavy action sequences might have taken longer to film than those with more dialogue-driven scenes.
Q5: Who directed the episodes in Season 6, and when did they start their preparation?
The directors for Season 6 included Jeremy Podeswa, Daniel Sackheim, Jack Bender, Mark Mylod, Miguel Sapochnik, and Michael Slovis. Directors typically begin pre-production months before filming begins, working closely with the writers, producers, and other department heads to plan their episodes. This involves location scouting, casting, storyboarding, and developing a detailed shooting schedule. Director preparation is crucial for efficiently executing the vision of each episode.
Q6: How much did each episode cost to film in Season 6?
Estimates suggest that each episode of Game of Thrones Season 6 cost around $10 million to produce. This high budget reflected the show’s massive scale, elaborate sets, extensive VFX, and high-profile cast.
Q7: How did they manage the massive cast and crew?
Managing such a large cast and crew required a highly organized and experienced production team. The show utilized a complex scheduling system, breaking down scenes into manageable units and assigning specific actors, crew members, and locations. Communication was paramount, ensuring everyone was aware of their responsibilities and deadlines. Effective coordination was essential to keep the production on track.
Q8: What were some of the biggest challenges filming Season 6?
Challenges included:
- Weather conditions: Filming in diverse locations exposed the crew to varying and often unpredictable weather, which could disrupt schedules.
- Security: Maintaining security around filming locations to prevent leaks and protect the privacy of the cast and crew was a constant concern.
- Logistics: Transporting equipment and personnel across multiple countries and coordinating travel arrangements for a large team presented significant logistical hurdles.
- Visual effects: Creating realistic and believable VFX required significant time and resources.
Q9: Did any major injuries or accidents occur during filming of Season 6?
While minor injuries are inevitable on a set of that scale, there were no widely reported major injuries or accidents during the filming of Game of Thrones Season 6. The production team placed a high priority on safety and implemented protocols to minimize risks.
Q10: What was the public’s reaction to the filming of Season 6?
The filming of Season 6 generated intense public interest and media attention. Fans eagerly sought out spoilers and leaked set photos, fueling speculation about the plot. The secrecy surrounding the production only heightened the anticipation for the season’s premiere. The production team worked diligently to maintain a degree of secrecy amidst the intense public scrutiny.
Q11: How did the actors prepare for their roles in Season 6?
Actors typically spent weeks or months preparing for their roles. This involved rehearsing lines, studying scripts, undergoing physical training (if required for action sequences), and working with dialect coaches to perfect their accents. They also collaborated with the directors and writers to develop their characters and understand their motivations. Dedication to character development was crucial for delivering compelling performances.
Q12: Where can I find behind-the-scenes footage or documentaries about the filming of Season 6?
HBO released various behind-the-scenes features and documentaries about the making of Game of Thrones, including Season 6. These can often be found on HBO Max (now Max), YouTube, and other streaming platforms. Searching for terms like “Game of Thrones Season 6 behind the scenes” or “Making of Game of Thrones Season 6” will yield relevant results. These resources offer valuable insights into the production process.
By understanding the timeline, challenges, and key elements of filming Game of Thrones Season 6, we gain a greater appreciation for the immense effort and artistry that went into bringing this epic fantasy world to life. The dedication of the cast, crew, and creatives ensured that Season 6 delivered a captivating and unforgettable viewing experience, solidifying Game of Thrones‘ place as a landmark achievement in television history.