Coming 2 America, the long-awaited sequel to the 1988 classic, brought the vibrant world of Zamunda back to the big screen, but surprisingly, much of its visual magic happened not in Africa, but closer to Hollywood. While the original film used locations in New York City, the sequel primarily filmed in Atlanta, Georgia, transforming various sites into the royal kingdom.
Atlanta’s Transformation into Zamunda
The decision to film in Georgia wasn’t arbitrary. The state offers significant tax incentives for film production, making it an attractive location for large-scale projects like Coming 2 America. More importantly, Georgia boasts a diverse range of architectural styles and natural landscapes that could convincingly stand in for the fictional African nation.
The Tyler Perry Studios Connection
A significant portion of the Zamundan palace scenes, both interior and exterior, were filmed at Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta. This sprawling studio complex provided ample space for the elaborate sets and intricate set designs that brought the kingdom to life. The studio’s backlot and soundstages were instrumental in creating the illusion of a royal palace nestled in the heart of Africa. The collaboration with Tyler Perry’s studios also contributed to the diversity both in front of and behind the camera, something director Craig Brewer championed.
Other Key Georgia Locations
Beyond Tyler Perry Studios, several other Georgia locations played crucial roles in the film. These include:
- Fairburn, Georgia: This location was used for establishing shots of Zamunda, utilizing the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Specific details about the precise locations within Fairburn used are scarce, adding to the mystique surrounding the filming process.
- Ric Flair Drip: While not a traditional filming location in the sense of providing a backdrop for scenes, this Atlanta streetwear shop became a must-visit spot for the cast and crew, reflecting the cultural vibrancy of the city and influencing some of the film’s wardrobe choices. This highlights how the atmosphere of Atlanta seeped into the production process.
The Absence of On-Location Filming in Africa
One notable aspect of Coming 2 America is the lack of actual on-location filming in Africa. This decision, driven primarily by budgetary and logistical considerations, sparked some debate regarding the film’s authenticity and cultural representation. However, the production team employed meticulous set design, visual effects, and costume design to create a believable and visually stunning depiction of Zamunda, despite the reliance on Georgia locations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Filming Locations of Coming 2 America
Here are some frequently asked questions concerning the filming locations of Coming 2 America, providing a deeper understanding of the production process and the geographical choices made:
FAQ 1: Why did Coming 2 America film in Atlanta instead of Africa?
The primary reason for filming in Atlanta was the significant tax incentives offered by the state of Georgia for film productions. These incentives dramatically reduced production costs. Logistical considerations, such as access to skilled crew and readily available resources, also played a crucial role. While filming in Africa would have added a layer of authenticity, the financial and practical benefits of shooting in Georgia were ultimately more compelling.
FAQ 2: What parts of Tyler Perry Studios were used in the film?
Tyler Perry Studios provided both interior soundstages for palace interiors and extensive backlot space for constructing exterior sets. The backlot was crucial for creating the illusion of Zamunda’s sprawling grounds and royal gardens. specific soundstage names or backlot sections aren’t typically released for security reasons, but its safe to assume a significant portion of the Zamunda palace scenes were filmed within its premises.
FAQ 3: Were any scenes filmed in New York City, like the original movie?
Unlike the original Coming to America, which featured prominent locations in New York City, Coming 2 America did not film any scenes in New York. The decision to shift the filming entirely to Georgia marked a significant departure from the original’s setting and aesthetic.
FAQ 4: How did the production team create the look of Zamunda without filming in Africa?
The production team relied heavily on elaborate set design, detailed costuming, and cutting-edge visual effects (VFX) to create the visual illusion of Zamunda. They meticulously researched African architecture, landscapes, and cultural traditions to inform the design of the sets and costumes. VFX were used to enhance the landscapes, add details that couldn’t be physically built, and seamlessly integrate the various locations.
FAQ 5: Did Eddie Murphy or any of the other cast members visit Africa for research or inspiration?
While information about specific pre-production research trips by the cast is limited, the production team likely conducted extensive research through various resources, including documentaries, photographs, and consultations with cultural experts. However, there’s no widely reported evidence of the main cast undertaking research trips to Africa directly associated with the film’s production.
FAQ 6: Were any local Georgia residents involved in the filming process as extras or crew members?
Yes, Coming 2 America, like many large-scale productions filmed in Georgia, provided numerous opportunities for local residents to work as extras and crew members. This contributes significantly to the local economy and fosters the growth of the film industry in the region.
FAQ 7: How did the filming locations influence the overall look and feel of Coming 2 America compared to the original?
The shift from New York to Georgia resulted in a slightly different visual aesthetic. The original film had a grittier, more urban feel, reflecting its New York setting. Coming 2 America, with its Georgia locations and emphasis on vibrant set design, possesses a more polished and visually lavish look. This difference in visual style contributes to the sequel’s distinct identity while still honoring the spirit of the original.
FAQ 8: Were any scenes filmed on location at actual castles or historical sites?
No, Coming 2 America did not utilize any existing castles or historical sites as filming locations. The Zamundan palace was primarily constructed on the backlot of Tyler Perry Studios, providing the production team with complete control over the design and appearance of the royal residence.
FAQ 9: How long did it take to film Coming 2 America in Georgia?
Filming for Coming 2 America commenced in August 2019 and concluded in November 2019. This three-month filming period allowed for the creation of the elaborate sets, the execution of the complex scenes, and the capture of the necessary footage to bring the story to life.
FAQ 10: What challenges did the production team face when filming in Atlanta?
While Atlanta offers numerous advantages for film production, the production team likely faced challenges such as managing large crowds of extras, coordinating the movements of cast and crew across multiple locations, and ensuring the safety and security of the production. Unexpected weather conditions can also present challenges, especially when filming outdoor scenes.
FAQ 11: Are there any tours or opportunities to visit the filming locations of Coming 2 America?
While Tyler Perry Studios generally doesn’t offer public tours that include specific set visits, it is a working studio, and accessibility is limited. Check Tyler Perry Studios’ official website for tour information, though access to Coming 2 America-specific sets is unlikely. The Ric Flair Drip store is open to the public.
FAQ 12: How did the local community in Atlanta react to the filming of Coming 2 America?
The filming of Coming 2 America in Atlanta generated excitement and buzz within the local community. It provided economic opportunities for local businesses and residents and contributed to the growing reputation of Atlanta as a major hub for film production. The presence of high-profile actors and filmmakers also added to the city’s cultural vibrancy.