Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives, arguably one of the most beloved installments in the franchise, brought Jason Voorhees back from the dead in spectacular fashion. While the fictional Camp Forest Green (formerly Camp Crystal Lake) serves as the chilling backdrop, the real-world filming locations reside primarily within the state of Georgia, breathing life – or undeath – into the slasher classic.
Unveiling the Georgia Settings
The film crew primarily utilized areas in Rutledge, Covington, and Oxford, Georgia, to create the picturesque yet terrifying setting for Jason’s resurgence. These towns, nestled in the heart of Georgia, provided the perfect combination of rustic charm and dense woodlands required to convincingly portray the infamous camp and its surrounding areas.
Rutledge: The Heart of Forest Green
Rutledge, Georgia, stands as the primary location for the bulk of Friday the 13th Part VI. The town square and surrounding buildings were cleverly transformed to represent the revitalized, yet still ominous, Camp Forest Green.
Covington and Oxford: Expanding the Landscape
While Rutledge served as the core, Covington and Oxford, Georgia, offered supplementary locations to flesh out the world around Camp Forest Green. These areas provided the sprawling landscapes and specific structures necessary to tell the film’s story.
Exploring Key Locations
Understanding the specific sites used in filming allows fans to connect with the movie on a deeper level. By exploring these actual locations, you can gain a unique perspective on the film’s production and its enduring appeal.
The Old Mill
A crucial element of Jason Lives is the old mill, where Tommy Jarvis initially attempts to destroy Jason’s corpse. This iconic location is actually the Cochran Mill Park near Atlanta, Georgia, providing a historical and scenic backdrop to the gruesome scene.
Camp Forest Green Cabins
The cabins that formed the ill-fated Camp Forest Green were specifically constructed for the film near Hard Labor Creek State Park. While the original structures no longer exist, the areas around the Park offer a sense of the atmosphere that permeated the set.
Sheriff Garris’s Residence
The Sheriff’s residence and surrounding neighborhood scenes were filmed in downtown Rutledge, capturing the small-town essence of the community terrorized by Jason’s return. The architecture and overall aesthetic are instantly recognizable to fans of the movie.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Filming of Jason Lives
FAQ 1: Were any scenes actually filmed at Crystal Lake?
No. Despite the franchise’s strong association with Crystal Lake, Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives was entirely filmed in Georgia, utilizing the state’s natural beauty to represent the fictional setting. No filming took place in New Jersey, where the original Camp Crystal Lake was supposedly located.
FAQ 2: Why was Georgia chosen as the filming location?
Georgia was chosen for its cost-effectiveness, diverse landscapes that could convincingly portray the Camp Crystal Lake area, and the availability of skilled local crew. Filmmakers often seek locations that offer a blend of visual appeal and practical benefits.
FAQ 3: Are any of the original sets still standing?
Unfortunately, most of the original sets constructed for Friday the 13th Part VI, including the cabins and many of the temporary structures, were dismantled after filming concluded. Only some of the existing buildings in Rutledge remain.
FAQ 4: Can I visit the filming locations today?
While the specific cabins and sets are gone, you can visit Rutledge, Covington, Oxford, and Cochran Mill Park in Georgia. These locations offer a tangible connection to the film and allow you to experience the atmosphere that contributed to its success. However, be respectful of local residents and private property.
FAQ 5: Was the town of Rutledge aware of the film’s horror theme during filming?
Yes. The town was aware of the horror theme and cooperated with the production team. Many locals even participated as extras, adding to the authenticity of the small-town setting.
FAQ 6: Did any local businesses benefit from the filming?
Yes. Local businesses benefited from the presence of the film crew, providing accommodation, meals, and supplies. Film productions often contribute to the local economy, providing a temporary boost.
FAQ 7: What other movies have been filmed in Rutledge, Covington, and Oxford?
These areas in Georgia are popular filming locations. Covington, in particular, is known for its appearances in The Vampire Diaries and In the Heat of the Night. Oxford has been used for films like Remember the Titans. This highlights the region’s versatility as a filming hub.
FAQ 8: How did the filmmakers create the look of Camp Forest Green?
The filmmakers utilized a combination of practical effects, set design, and location scouting to create the chilling look of Camp Forest Green. They sought locations that had a natural beauty but also conveyed a sense of isolation and unease.
FAQ 9: Was there any local controversy surrounding the filming of a horror movie?
While some residents might have had initial reservations, the overall reception to the filming was positive. The economic benefits and the excitement of having a major motion picture filmed in their town outweighed any concerns about the horror theme.
FAQ 10: How can I find the exact addresses of the filming locations?
While specific addresses for temporary sets are difficult to pinpoint, you can research online forums and fan sites dedicated to Friday the 13th. These communities often share information and maps related to filming locations. Visiting the town squares of Rutledge, Covington and Oxford is a good start.
FAQ 11: What challenges did the filmmakers face while filming in Georgia?
The filmmakers likely faced typical challenges associated with location filming, such as weather conditions, logistics, and coordinating with local authorities and residents. Maintaining continuity across different locations would also have been a consideration.
FAQ 12: Did the use of Georgia locations influence the tone or style of Jason Lives?
Yes. The landscapes and small-town settings of Georgia likely contributed to the film’s unique blend of horror and humor. The idyllic scenery juxtaposed with the gruesome violence created a memorable and unsettling atmosphere. The slower pace of life in these towns likely influenced the rhythm of the film’s storytelling.
The Legacy of Georgia in Jason Lives
The selection of Georgia as the primary filming location for Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives was a crucial decision that significantly shaped the film’s visual identity and overall atmosphere. The state’s natural beauty, coupled with the charm of its small towns, created a backdrop that was both idyllic and terrifying, contributing to the film’s enduring popularity among horror fans. So next time you watch Tommy Jarvis battle the undead Jason Voorhees, remember that Camp Forest Green is actually the product of meticulous location scouting and creative filmmaking in the heart of Georgia.