The Devil All the Time, Netflix’s unsettling and visually arresting adaptation of Donald Ray Pollock’s novel, paints a bleak portrait of post-war America. While the narrative unfolds amidst the fictional towns of Coal Creek, West Virginia, and Knockemstiff, Ohio, the film was primarily shot in the rural landscapes of Alabama and Ohio, masterfully recreating the distinct atmosphere of the story’s setting. These locations, chosen for their authenticity and ability to evoke the period, serve as a crucial element in conveying the film’s themes of poverty, violence, and religious extremism.
Recreating the Depths of Appalachia: Filming Locations Unveiled
Director Antonio Campos meticulously scouted locations to capture the gritty realism inherent in Pollock’s work. Instead of filming in the actual states depicted in the book, he opted for a combination of Alabama and Ohio, finding that these areas best embodied the decaying beauty and raw spirit of the Appalachian region.
Alabama: The Heart of Darkness
A significant portion of The Devil All the Time was filmed in Alabama, utilizing its diverse topography to represent both West Virginia and Ohio. The rolling hills, dense forests, and weathered buildings provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s dark narrative.
- Anniston, Alabama: This city served as a primary base of operations, with several scenes shot in and around its environs. The historic architecture and quiet atmosphere allowed the filmmakers to convincingly portray small-town life in the 1950s and 1960s.
- Riverside, Alabama: This area played a crucial role in depicting the rural landscapes and backwoods settings. The rivers and wooded areas offered a sense of isolation and despair that mirrored the characters’ internal struggles.
- Oak Hill Cemetery, Talladega, Alabama: The visually striking cemetery scenes, essential for establishing the film’s themes of death and remembrance, were filmed in Oak Hill Cemetery. Its aged tombstones and sprawling grounds provided a suitably eerie and evocative setting.
- Montevallo, Alabama: Used for several key exterior shots, Montevallo provided the perfect combination of rural charm and understated decay that the filmmakers were seeking.
Ohio: Echoes of Knockemstiff
While Alabama formed the primary filming location, some scenes were also shot in Ohio, adding another layer of authenticity to the depiction of Knockemstiff. These locations, though fewer, were carefully chosen to reflect the specific details described in the novel.
- Cambridge, Ohio: This city, nestled in the heart of Appalachian Ohio, provided authentic backdrops for scenes depicting Knockemstiff and its surrounding areas. Its small-town charm and historic architecture contributed to the film’s overall atmosphere of gritty realism. Specific areas within the county played a role as well.
- Meigs County, Ohio: Located on the southern border of Ohio, Meigs County was used for filming, chosen for it’s rural aesthetic.
Decoding the Filming Locations: FAQs
To further unravel the complexities of the filming locations and their significance, here are some frequently asked questions:
1. Why weren’t the actual states of West Virginia and Ohio used for all the filming?
While the novel is set in West Virginia and Ohio, the filmmakers found that Alabama provided a greater variety of landscapes and architectural styles that could convincingly represent both states. Cost considerations and the availability of resources also played a role in the decision. Finding the perfect setting to represent the time was the most important consideration.
2. How did the filmmakers ensure the Alabama locations looked like West Virginia and Ohio from the 1950s and 1960s?
The production design team meticulously researched the architectural styles, landscapes, and cultural nuances of West Virginia and Ohio during the mid-20th century. They used a combination of set dressing, visual effects, and careful camera angles to recreate the specific atmosphere of the time period.
3. Were any local residents involved in the filming process?
Yes, the production team actively engaged with local residents, hiring them as extras, crew members, and consultants. This not only contributed to the authenticity of the film but also provided economic benefits to the communities where filming took place.
4. What challenges did the filmmakers face while filming in these rural locations?
Filming in rural areas presented several logistical challenges, including limited infrastructure, unpredictable weather conditions, and the need to transport equipment and personnel to remote locations. The crew worked diligently to overcome these obstacles and maintain a smooth production schedule.
5. How did the locations contribute to the overall mood and atmosphere of the film?
The stark beauty and inherent desolation of the filming locations played a crucial role in conveying the film’s dark and unsettling themes. The weathered buildings, overgrown landscapes, and isolated settings mirrored the characters’ internal struggles and the pervasive sense of hopelessness that permeates the story.
6. Were any of the filming locations altered or enhanced using CGI?
While some minor alterations were made using CGI, the filmmakers primarily relied on practical effects and location scouting to achieve the desired look and feel. This commitment to authenticity added to the film’s gritty realism and enhanced its impact on viewers.
7. Is it possible to visit any of the filming locations used in The Devil All the Time?
Yes, many of the locations used in the film are accessible to the public. Anniston, Talladega and Montevallo, Alabama are accessible cities, and Oak Hill Cemetary is open to the public. Cambridge and Meigs County in Ohio are open to the public as well. It’s important to be respectful of private property and obtain permission before visiting any location that is not publicly accessible.
8. Did Donald Ray Pollock, the author of the novel, visit the filming locations?
While there’s no definitive public record confirming a visit by Pollock to all filming locations, it is highly likely he was consulted during pre-production and may have visited key sites. His intimate knowledge of the region was undoubtedly invaluable to the filmmakers.
9. How long did it take to film The Devil All the Time?
Principal photography for The Devil All the Time commenced in February 2019 and wrapped up in April 2019, spanning approximately two months.
10. Were there any unusual occurrences or local legends associated with the filming locations?
Many of the rural areas where The Devil All the Time was filmed are steeped in local folklore and legends. While there’s no evidence that these stories directly influenced the production, they undoubtedly contributed to the overall sense of mystery and intrigue surrounding the film.
11. What was the budget for The Devil All the Time, and how did it affect the choice of filming locations?
While the exact budget hasn’t been publicly disclosed by Netflix, it’s reasonable to assume that cost played a significant role in the decision to film primarily in Alabama. Alabama offers various incentives for filmmakers, making it a more financially attractive option compared to other states.
12. How does the film’s setting compare to the real-life Appalachian region in terms of accuracy and representation?
The Devil All the Time presents a deliberately bleak and exaggerated portrayal of Appalachia, focusing on its darker aspects of poverty, violence, and religious extremism. While the film captures some of the region’s unique cultural nuances, it is important to recognize that it is not a comprehensive or entirely accurate representation of Appalachian life.
Conclusion: A Landscape of Sin and Salvation
The filming locations of The Devil All the Time are more than just backdrops; they are integral to the film’s narrative power. By carefully selecting and utilizing the landscapes of Alabama and Ohio, the filmmakers created a world that is both hauntingly beautiful and deeply disturbing. The rolling hills, dilapidated towns, and isolated cemeteries serve as constant reminders of the characters’ struggles and the pervasive darkness that envelops their lives. The authenticity of the location work allows audiences to truly immerse themselves in the film’s story, making The Devil All the Time a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.