Season 3 of The Affair drastically expanded its geographical horizons, taking viewers beyond the familiar landscapes of Montauk and the Hamptons. Much of the season’s emotional turmoil unfolds against the backdrop of Paris, France, adding a layer of European sophistication and detachment to Noah Solloway’s increasingly fractured psyche.
A Parisian Shift: Setting the Stage
Season 3 sees Noah Solloway, grappling with the aftermath of his trial and incarceration, accepting a teaching position at a prestigious university in Paris. This move marks a significant departure from the series’ established setting, allowing the writers to explore themes of identity, alienation, and redemption in a new and visually arresting environment. The Parisian backdrop is not merely window dressing; it actively contributes to the narrative, mirroring Noah’s own feelings of being an outsider and struggling to find his place.
Key Parisian Locations
While specific Parisian addresses remain closely guarded, eagle-eyed viewers and online sleuths have identified several key locations:
- Sorbonne University: The imposing architecture of the Sorbonne, or a similar university building, likely serves as the exterior for the university where Noah teaches. The academic setting emphasizes his intellectual pursuits and the potential for a new beginning.
- Typical Parisian Apartments: Intricate details of Haussmannian architecture are visible in various scenes, highlighting the beauty and historical significance of the city. These apartments, with their wrought-iron balconies and high ceilings, further contribute to the overall atmosphere of Parisian elegance and seclusion.
- Seine River Banks and Bridges: The iconic Seine River and its picturesque bridges provide a stunning backdrop for reflective moments and clandestine meetings. These locations emphasize the romanticism often associated with Paris, even amidst the characters’ tumultuous relationships.
- Cafés and Bistros: Traditional Parisian cafés and bistros, crucial elements of French culture, are frequently featured, providing spaces for conversations and confrontations. These settings are integral to establishing the authentic Parisian atmosphere.
- Parks and Gardens: Paris’s beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Jardin du Luxembourg or the Tuileries Garden (though unconfirmed), serve as tranquil escapes from the city’s bustle and provide a visual representation of hope and renewal.
The Hamptons Remain: A Constant Reminder
Despite the shift to Paris, the Hamptons, particularly Montauk, remain a crucial part of the narrative. These locations serve as a constant reminder of the characters’ past and the complexities of their relationships.
Montauk’s Enduring Presence
The iconic beachside locations of Montauk, including the Lobster Roll restaurant, continue to feature prominently. They serve as touchstones for the characters’ shared history and the events that continue to haunt them. The contrast between the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of Paris and the serene, often melancholic beauty of Montauk underscores the emotional distance between the characters and the challenges they face in moving forward.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Filming Locations
Q1: Was all of season 3 filmed on location, or were there studio sets?
While significant portions of Season 3 were indeed filmed on location in Paris and Montauk, it’s highly likely that interior shots, especially those requiring controlled lighting and sound, were filmed on studio sets. This allows for greater flexibility and efficiency during production.
Q2: How did the filming in Paris impact the storyline?
The Parisian setting served as a catalyst for Noah’s character development, allowing him to distance himself from the drama of the Hamptons and explore new facets of his personality. The city’s atmosphere of intellectualism and artistic expression also provided a visual metaphor for his attempts at self-reinvention.
Q3: Did any of the actors learn to speak French for their roles?
While some actors may have known some French, it is most likely that the production used techniques such as script adjustments and strategically placed subtitles to convey the necessary information in French-speaking scenes. Using actors fluent in French would have significantly increased production costs.
Q4: Were local Parisians involved in the filming process?
Absolutely. Local Parisians were likely employed as extras, crew members, and location scouts. Their involvement would have been crucial in ensuring the authenticity and accuracy of the Parisian setting.
Q5: What were some of the challenges of filming in Paris?
Filming in a major city like Paris presents numerous challenges, including permitting issues, traffic congestion, language barriers, and navigating the city’s strict regulations. Gaining access to iconic locations and coordinating large-scale scenes would also have required meticulous planning and execution.
Q6: How did the producers choose the specific Parisian locations?
The selection of Parisian locations would have been driven by a combination of factors, including aesthetic appeal, logistical feasibility, and their relevance to the storyline. The producers would have sought locations that visually represented the themes and emotions explored in the season.
Q7: Did the production team scout other European cities before settling on Paris?
While it’s possible other cities were considered, Paris aligns perfectly with the narrative themes of intellectualism, alienation, and reinvention central to Noah’s journey. Its iconic imagery also offers a visually compelling contrast to the Hamptons.
Q8: Were there any noticeable changes in the filming style or cinematography compared to previous seasons?
The cinematography in Season 3 likely incorporated a more European aesthetic, reflecting the Parisian setting. This may have involved the use of different camera angles, lighting techniques, and color palettes to create a distinct visual atmosphere.
Q9: How much time was spent filming in Paris versus the Hamptons for Season 3?
It’s difficult to provide exact figures, but based on the screen time dedicated to each location, it’s safe to assume that a significant portion of the filming took place in Paris, perhaps even exceeding the time spent in the Hamptons.
Q10: Did the filming locations contribute to the overall tone and mood of Season 3?
Undoubtedly. The contrast between the bustling, cosmopolitan atmosphere of Paris and the more isolated, reflective environment of Montauk amplified the characters’ emotional journeys and highlighted the complexities of their relationships.
Q11: Were there any specific filming permits required for shooting in the Sorbonne (or similar university)?
Filming in or around any university, especially a historical institution like the Sorbonne, would require extensive permits and coordination with university authorities. Security protocols and restrictions on filming times would likely have been in place.
Q12: Can fans visit the filming locations used in Season 3 of The Affair?
While access to some locations, such as private residences or university interiors, may be restricted, many of the public locations, such as the Seine River, parks, and cafes, are easily accessible to visitors. Fans can retrace the characters’ steps and experience the Parisian atmosphere firsthand.