Ben Stiller’s 2013 film, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, isn’t just a movie; it’s a visual journey across the globe. From the mundane streets of New York City to the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland, Greenland, and the Himalayas, the film masterfully blends fantasy and reality, prompting the question: Where exactly did they film this incredible story? The answer is a captivating tapestry woven from diverse locations, with Iceland serving as the most significant and visually arresting canvas.
A Journey of Transformation: Filming Locations Explored
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is a film about escaping the ordinary and embracing adventure. This theme is reflected in the diverse and stunning locations that serve as the backdrop for Walter’s transformative journey. While the film sets the stage in New York City, the heart of Walter’s fantastical adventures lies in the remote and picturesque landscapes that represent Greenland and the Himalayas.
Iceland: The Soul of the Film
Iceland plays a crucial role in bringing Walter Mitty’s daydreams to life. Much of the film’s supposed Greenland scenes were actually shot in Iceland. The town of Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes peninsula stood in for Nuuk, Greenland. The iconic skateboarding scene was filmed in Grundarfjörður, also on the Snæfellsnes peninsula, utilizing its steep streets and dramatic mountain backdrop.
The vast and rugged landscapes of southern Iceland, including areas near Vatnajökull glacier, were used to depict the Himalayas. The desolate beauty of the region, with its black sand beaches and glacial lagoons, provided a stunning and convincing portrayal of the harsh but majestic mountain range. The Seyðisfjörður fjord, with its charming town and colorful buildings, also featured prominently in scenes depicting Greenland and Iceland itself.
New York City: Grounding the Fantasy
Before his transformative journey, Walter Mitty’s life is rooted in the everyday reality of New York City. Scenes were filmed in various locations across the city, including around the Time Life Building where Walter works as a negative assets manager. Specific streets and buildings in Manhattan were used to establish Walter’s mundane and routine existence before his adventure begins. The contrast between these urban settings and the expansive landscapes of Iceland and Greenland highlights the dramatic shift in Walter’s life.
Other Notable Locations
While Iceland and New York City constitute the bulk of the filming locations, other places contribute to the film’s global feel. Brief scenes were filmed in Los Angeles, California, primarily for studio work. The final scenes, which depict Walter back in the United States and embracing his new life, were filmed in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, providing a sense of closure and completion to his adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Filming Locations
H3: Was all of Greenland footage actually filmed in Greenland?
No, most of the scenes that were supposed to be set in Greenland were primarily filmed in Iceland. The filmmakers chose Iceland due to its diverse landscapes that could effectively mimic the look and feel of Greenland.
H3: Which specific town in Iceland stood in for Nuuk, Greenland?
The town of Stykkishólmur on the Snæfellsnes peninsula in Iceland was used to portray Nuuk, the capital of Greenland.
H3: Where was the famous skateboarding scene filmed?
The skateboarding scene, a pivotal moment in Walter’s journey, was filmed in Grundarfjörður, Iceland, another town on the Snæfellsnes peninsula.
H3: What part of Iceland was used to represent the Himalayas?
The vast and rugged landscapes of southern Iceland, particularly areas near the Vatnajökull glacier, were used to create the illusion of the Himalayas.
H3: Were any scenes filmed in the actual Time Life Building in New York City?
While exterior shots around the actual Time Life Building were used, it’s likely that some of the interior office scenes were filmed in studios or other buildings to facilitate filming.
H3: Are there any tours that visit the filming locations in Iceland?
Yes, several tour companies in Iceland offer guided tours that take visitors to the various filming locations used in The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. These tours often include stops in Stykkishólmur, Grundarfjörður, and the southern coast.
H3: Why did the filmmakers choose Iceland for so many locations?
Iceland offered a combination of accessibility, diverse landscapes, and favorable filming conditions. Its landscapes could convincingly double for both Greenland and parts of the Himalayas, making it a cost-effective and visually stunning choice.
H3: What was the significance of using real locations versus relying solely on CGI?
Using real locations added a layer of authenticity and realism to the film. The tangible beauty of the Icelandic landscapes, for example, resonated with viewers and enhanced the emotional impact of Walter’s transformative journey.
H3: Did the film contribute to tourism in Iceland?
Yes, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is widely credited with contributing to a surge in tourism to Iceland. The film’s stunning visuals showcased the country’s natural beauty, inspiring many people to visit and experience it firsthand. This is often referred to as the “Walter Mitty Effect.”
H3: How accurately does the film portray the actual locations?
While the film takes creative liberties, it does a relatively good job of capturing the essence of the locations. The vastness of Iceland’s landscapes and the charm of its small towns are effectively portrayed, albeit sometimes embellished for cinematic effect.
H3: What equipment and challenges were involved in filming in such remote locations?
Filming in remote locations like the Icelandic highlands presented significant logistical challenges. Transporting equipment, housing the cast and crew, and dealing with unpredictable weather conditions required careful planning and specialized resources. The use of drones and helicopters was crucial for capturing the expansive landscapes.
H3: Are there any other notable films that have used Iceland as a filming location?
Yes, Iceland has become a popular filming location for numerous movies and TV shows, including Batman Begins, Interstellar, Oblivion, Prometheus, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, and Game of Thrones. Its diverse and dramatic landscapes make it an ideal backdrop for a wide range of genres.