“I Think We’re Alone Now,” the post-apocalyptic drama starring Peter Dinklage and Elle Fanning, paints a poignant picture of survival and connection in a seemingly desolate world. The film’s haunting beauty owes much to its carefully chosen setting: the Poughkeepsie area of New York’s Hudson Valley, specifically utilizing the abandoned IBM facility in East Fishkill as a primary location, coupled with other locations around Dutchess County.
The Rust Belt’s Canvas: Capturing Post-Apocalypse
The film masterfully leverages the existing landscape to evoke a sense of isolation and decay. The abandoned IBM campus in East Fishkill serves as the central location for much of the film’s interior and exterior shots. This sprawling, once-thriving tech hub, now dormant and reclaimed by nature, perfectly embodies the emptiness and stillness that permeates the post-apocalyptic narrative. Its stark architecture, decaying infrastructure, and overgrown surroundings contribute significantly to the film’s overall atmosphere of quiet desolation.
The strategic use of the Hudson Valley’s natural beauty further enhances the film’s visual storytelling. Rolling hills, dense forests, and the majestic Hudson River provide a contrasting backdrop to the industrial decay, hinting at the resilience of nature in the face of human absence. This juxtaposition creates a powerful visual tension that underscores the film’s themes of survival, hope, and the search for connection. Locations such as the Walkway Over the Hudson and various local roads and residences in Dutchess County were also utilized, contributing to a broader sense of place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3: General Filming Locations
FAQ 1: Was the IBM facility actually abandoned when they filmed the movie?
Yes, the IBM facility in East Fishkill was indeed abandoned and in a state of disrepair when filming took place. This was a major draw for the filmmakers, as it provided a ready-made post-apocalyptic setting without requiring extensive set design or artificial decay. The site’s existing conditions dramatically enhanced the film’s visual authenticity.
FAQ 2: Besides the IBM facility, where else in the Hudson Valley did they film?
While the IBM facility was central, other locations in Dutchess County were utilized to add depth and realism to the film’s world. These included segments of the Walkway Over the Hudson, various residential areas showcasing the character’s homes, and local roads offering scenic drives.
FAQ 3: Did the cast and crew stay in Poughkeepsie during filming?
Yes, the cast and crew primarily stayed in the Poughkeepsie area during the filming period. This provided them with convenient access to the various filming locations throughout Dutchess County and helped support the local economy.
H3: The Abandoned IBM Facility
FAQ 4: What is the history of the IBM facility in East Fishkill?
The IBM East Fishkill facility, also known as IBM Hopewell Junction, was a major semiconductor manufacturing plant that played a significant role in the development and production of computer chips. At its peak, it employed thousands of people and was a vital part of the local economy. However, due to shifts in the technology industry and IBM’s restructuring, the facility gradually declined and was eventually abandoned.
FAQ 5: Is the abandoned IBM facility accessible to the public?
No, the abandoned IBM facility is not accessible to the public. It is private property, and trespassing is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, the site’s deteriorating condition makes it potentially dangerous.
FAQ 6: What measures were taken to ensure safety during filming at the abandoned facility?
The production crew implemented strict safety protocols during filming at the abandoned IBM facility. This included conducting thorough safety assessments, securing hazardous areas, and providing training to the cast and crew on potential risks. Expert teams worked to make the location safe for filming, despite its inherent dangers.
H3: Authenticity and Impact
FAQ 7: How did the filmmakers use the Hudson Valley’s landscape to enhance the story?
The Hudson Valley’s rolling hills, dense forests, and the Hudson River provided a stark contrast to the industrial decay of the IBM facility. This juxtaposition created a powerful visual tension, highlighting the resilience of nature and the characters’ struggle for survival. The natural beauty also offered a sense of hope amidst the desolation.
FAQ 8: Did using real locations, instead of a studio set, impact the actors’ performances?
Absolutely. Filming in a real abandoned location like the IBM facility undoubtedly impacted the actors’ performances, adding a layer of authenticity and emotional depth. The palpable sense of isolation, decay, and eeriness of the environment likely influenced their portrayal of characters grappling with loneliness and survival in a post-apocalyptic world.
FAQ 9: What was the economic impact of the film’s production on the Hudson Valley?
The production of “I Think We’re Alone Now” provided a significant economic boost to the Hudson Valley. The cast and crew spent money on accommodation, food, transportation, and other services in the local community. The film also generated revenue for local businesses that provided supplies and support to the production.
H3: Behind the Scenes
FAQ 10: How did they choose the abandoned IBM facility as the primary filming location?
The abandoned IBM facility offered a unique combination of sprawling space, industrial decay, and architectural starkness that perfectly matched the filmmakers’ vision for the film’s setting. The facility’s history as a symbol of technological progress and its current state of abandonment added a layer of irony and thematic resonance to the story.
FAQ 11: Were there any challenges involved in filming in an abandoned location?
Filming in an abandoned location presented several challenges, including ensuring the safety of the cast and crew, dealing with environmental hazards, and obtaining the necessary permits and permissions. The production team had to navigate these challenges while also maintaining the authenticity and visual appeal of the setting.
FAQ 12: Did any local residents participate in the filming as extras or crew members?
Yes, the production team made efforts to hire local residents as extras and crew members, providing employment opportunities and fostering a sense of community involvement. This helped to integrate the film into the local culture and create a positive relationship with the Hudson Valley community.
Conclusion: A Landscape Speaks Volumes
“I Think We’re Alone Now” is a testament to the power of location in shaping a film’s narrative and atmosphere. The strategic use of the abandoned IBM facility in East Fishkill, along with other locations in the Hudson Valley, creates a visually striking and emotionally resonant backdrop for the story of two individuals navigating a desolate world. The film’s success lies, in part, in its ability to capture the stark beauty of abandonment and the enduring resilience of the human spirit, all set against the backdrop of a landscape that speaks volumes about the past, present, and potential future. The careful selection of these specific places significantly amplifies the themes explored within the film, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.