The sun-drenched, dramatic teen drama “Outer Banks” is beloved for its portrayal of the idyllic, yet intrigue-filled, North Carolina coast. However, surprisingly, the series isn’t actually filmed in the Outer Banks, a decision rooted primarily in North Carolina’s controversial “bathroom bill,” House Bill 2 (HB2), enacted in 2016.
The HB2 Controversy and its Impact on Production
The passage of HB2, also known as the Public Facilities Privacy & Security Act, sparked significant backlash and boycotts from businesses and individuals across the country. This legislation mandated that transgender individuals use public restrooms corresponding to their biological sex assigned at birth, effectively discriminating against the transgender community. This law resulted in businesses and events pulling out of North Carolina, costing the state millions of dollars.
Economic Repercussions and the Film Industry
The film industry, known for its progressive values and advocacy for inclusivity, was particularly vocal in its opposition to HB2. Several productions, including major film and television projects, threatened to relocate if the law remained in effect. The economic implications of losing film productions were substantial, impacting local economies and job opportunities.
Netflix’s Stance and the Decision to Relocate
Netflix, the streaming giant behind “Outer Banks,” joined the growing chorus of opposition. The company made the decision to relocate the production from the Outer Banks to Charleston, South Carolina, a state with more favorable tax incentives and a more welcoming social climate for the LGBTQ+ community. This decision underscored the importance of ethical considerations and social responsibility in the entertainment industry.
South Carolina: A Suitable Alternative
Charleston, South Carolina, offered a visually comparable substitute for the Outer Banks. While geographically distinct, Charleston boasts stunning coastal landscapes, historical architecture, and a similar laid-back atmosphere that allowed the production team to maintain the intended aesthetic of the series.
Tax Incentives and Production Infrastructure
South Carolina also offered attractive tax incentives for film productions, making it a financially viable alternative to North Carolina. The state has invested in building a robust film infrastructure, attracting numerous productions and bolstering its local economy. This combination of tax breaks and adequate resources made Charleston an appealing choice for Netflix.
Overcoming Geographical Differences
While Charleston possesses distinct architectural and geographical nuances compared to the Outer Banks, the production team skillfully leveraged camera angles, set design, and digital enhancements to create a believable representation of the North Carolina coast. Careful attention was paid to maintaining the show’s visual identity, ensuring that viewers would not immediately recognize the shift in location.
FAQs: Unpacking the “Outer Banks” Filming Location
FAQ 1: Why didn’t Netflix wait for HB2 to be repealed before filming in the Outer Banks?
HB2, although significantly amended in 2017 and eventually repealed in 2020, left a lasting impact on North Carolina’s reputation. The initial decision to move production was made during the height of the controversy. Even after the repeal, the damage to North Carolina’s image and the established production infrastructure in South Carolina made returning to the Outer Banks less appealing. Furthermore, the initial investment in infrastructure and relationships in Charleston made a return less fiscally sensible.
FAQ 2: Are there any scenes actually filmed in the Outer Banks?
While the vast majority of filming takes place in and around Charleston, South Carolina, there might be establishing shots or aerial footage of the Outer Banks used to enhance the authenticity of the setting. However, these instances are rare and do not involve principal cast members.
FAQ 3: What specific locations in Charleston were used to represent the Outer Banks?
Key locations in Charleston and its surrounding areas include Shem Creek for waterfront scenes, historic downtown Charleston for some town scenes, Mount Pleasant for residential areas, and various beaches along the South Carolina coast. Fort Moultrie was also used for some exterior shots.
FAQ 4: How do residents of the Outer Banks feel about the show not being filmed there?
Reactions are mixed. Some residents express disappointment that the show doesn’t contribute directly to the local economy, while others understand the reasons behind the decision and appreciate the national exposure the show brings to the region, albeit indirectly. Some feel that the show’s portrayal of the area is inaccurate and doesn’t truly represent the Outer Banks’ unique culture and environment.
FAQ 5: Did the creators of the show originally intend to film in the Outer Banks?
Yes, the initial plan was to film in the Outer Banks to authentically capture the region’s atmosphere and landscapes. The HB2 controversy disrupted these plans and forced the production team to seek an alternative location.
FAQ 6: How did the change in location affect the authenticity of the show?
While the production team worked diligently to recreate the look and feel of the Outer Banks, some subtle differences are noticeable to viewers familiar with the region. The architecture, vegetation, and overall atmosphere of Charleston differ in certain aspects from the Outer Banks. Despite this, the show’s core narrative and character dynamics remain compelling.
FAQ 7: What are the key differences between the Outer Banks and Charleston, South Carolina?
Geographically, the Outer Banks are a string of barrier islands, while Charleston is a historic coastal city. Architecturally, Charleston features more colonial-era buildings, whereas the Outer Banks have a more relaxed, beach-town vibe. Culturally, the Outer Banks have a strong maritime heritage, while Charleston is known for its Southern charm and rich history. The geography differs in that the Outer Banks has very distinct dunes along the shore, while Charleston’s coastline is smoother.
FAQ 8: Are there any plans to film future seasons in the Outer Banks?
As of the latest updates, there are no confirmed plans to shift filming back to the Outer Banks. The established infrastructure in Charleston and the continued availability of tax incentives make it a likely location for future seasons.
FAQ 9: What other factors, besides HB2, might have influenced the decision to film in Charleston?
Besides HB2, South Carolina’s aggressive tax incentives for film and television production were a significant draw. The state’s established film infrastructure and the availability of skilled crew members also contributed to the decision. The weather also played a role; Charleston offered more consistent weather for filming throughout the year.
FAQ 10: How has the show impacted tourism in both the Outer Banks and Charleston?
While the show is not filmed in the Outer Banks, it has undoubtedly increased awareness of the region, leading to a potential rise in tourism. Charleston has also seen a surge in tourism as fans visit filming locations and explore the city’s attractions. Both regions have benefited from the show’s popularity, albeit in different ways.
FAQ 11: Has the show addressed the controversy surrounding its filming location?
The show itself has not directly addressed the HB2 controversy or the decision to film in Charleston. However, the creators and cast members have publicly expressed their support for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity on various occasions.
FAQ 12: How can viewers tell the difference between locations when watching the show?
Experienced viewers familiar with both locations may notice subtle differences in architecture, landscape, and vegetation. For example, the distinctive dune systems of the Outer Banks are largely absent in the Charleston-based scenes. Paying attention to these details can provide clues about the actual filming location. However, the production team has made a concerted effort to blend the two locations seamlessly.
In conclusion, the decision not to film “Outer Banks” in the Outer Banks was primarily driven by the political climate surrounding HB2 and the more favorable economic and infrastructural conditions offered by South Carolina. While this choice disappointed some, Charleston has proven to be a visually appealing and logistically sound alternative, allowing the show to maintain its popularity and continue captivating audiences worldwide. The controversy highlights the powerful impact of social and political issues on the entertainment industry and the growing importance of corporate social responsibility.