The iconic Starcourt Mall from Stranger Things Season 3, a vibrant, 1980s time capsule teeming with life and foreshadowing impending doom, was primarily filmed at the now-defunct Gwinnett Place Mall in Duluth, Georgia. While some interior shots were created on a soundstage, the majority of the recognizable exterior and interior locations are undeniably rooted in this real-world shopping center.
Gwinnett Place Mall: The Heart of Starcourt
The Gwinnett Place Mall, once a bustling hub of suburban life, provided the perfect canvas for the Duffer Brothers to bring their vision of Starcourt to life. The mall’s existing architecture, coupled with masterful set design and special effects, transformed it into the vibrant and ultimately terrifying setting for the season’s climactic events. The show’s production team capitalized on the mall’s large open spaces, outdated aesthetic, and even its state of disrepair to create a believably authentic 1980s mall experience.
A Transformation Through Time
While the Gwinnett Place Mall provided the skeletal structure for Starcourt, significant modifications were undertaken to fully realize the vision. Existing storefronts were completely revamped, transforming into recognizable brands from the era, such as “The Gap,” “RadioShack,” and the infamous “Scoops Ahoy!” ice cream parlor. The mall’s central court, a key location for many scenes, was meticulously decorated to reflect the era’s vibrant trends and consumer culture.
Beyond Gwinnett Place: The Soundstage Factor
Although Gwinnett Place Mall was the primary filming location, it’s important to note that not all scenes were shot on location. Interior scenes, particularly those involving complex special effects or demanding specific environmental controls, were often filmed on a purpose-built soundstage. This allowed the production team to maintain consistency and control over the filming environment, ensuring the seamless integration of practical effects and CGI. For instance, the underground Russian base beneath the mall was entirely constructed on a soundstage.
FAQs: Unpacking the Secrets of Starcourt
Here are some frequently asked questions that delve deeper into the filming of the iconic mall scenes in Stranger Things Season 3:
1. Why was Gwinnett Place Mall chosen as the filming location?
The Gwinnett Place Mall was chosen primarily due to its resemblance to a typical 1980s mall and its availability. The mall had already experienced a decline in popularity, which likely made it easier for the production team to secure permits and transform the space. Its location in Georgia, where Stranger Things is largely filmed, also contributed to its selection.
2. Did any other malls contribute to the Starcourt Mall scenes?
While Gwinnett Place Mall served as the primary location, some additional filming may have occurred at other locations for specific shots. However, the vast majority of the recognizable mall footage originates from Gwinnett Place. Details about other potential filming locations are not widely publicized, but their contribution is likely minimal compared to Gwinnett Place.
3. Is the Gwinnett Place Mall still accessible to the public?
Unfortunately, the Gwinnett Place Mall is currently not readily accessible to the public in its Stranger Things state. After filming concluded, the mall underwent renovations and modifications. Its future is uncertain, and it’s important to respect any existing closures or restrictions.
4. What specific stores were recreated for Starcourt Mall?
Several iconic stores from the 1980s were meticulously recreated for Starcourt Mall, including The Gap, RadioShack, Scoops Ahoy!, and Orange Julius. These recreations played a vital role in immersing viewers in the 1980s setting and adding authenticity to the narrative. Other stores like Claire’s Boutique and a movie theatre also featured prominently.
5. How long did it take to transform Gwinnett Place Mall into Starcourt Mall?
The transformation process took several months, involving extensive set design, construction, and decoration. The production team worked diligently to recreate the look and feel of a bustling 1980s shopping mall, paying meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the environment.
6. Were any real stores operating in Gwinnett Place Mall during filming?
No, the Gwinnett Place Mall was largely vacant during filming. This allowed the production team complete creative freedom to transform the space without disrupting ongoing business operations. This also contributed to the mall’s appeal as a filming location.
7. Did the show use CGI to enhance the Starcourt Mall scenes?
Yes, CGI played a significant role in enhancing the Starcourt Mall scenes. While the physical transformation of the mall was impressive, CGI was used to add crowds, create visual effects, and seamlessly integrate the supernatural elements of the storyline.
8. What happened to the Starcourt Mall set after filming concluded?
After filming concluded, the Starcourt Mall set was largely dismantled. The Gwinnett Place Mall underwent some renovations, although the extent of these renovations and their impact on the mall’s original architecture are not fully known.
9. Are there any behind-the-scenes tours or documentaries about the filming of Starcourt Mall?
While official, comprehensive behind-the-scenes tours or documentaries focused solely on the filming of Starcourt Mall are not readily available, snippets of behind-the-scenes footage can be found online through various fan channels and interviews with cast and crew. Keep an eye out for official releases or fan-made documentaries that may emerge in the future.
10. How did the Duffer Brothers ensure the accuracy of the 1980s mall setting?
The Duffer Brothers are known for their meticulous attention to detail, and the 1980s mall setting was no exception. They employed a team of researchers and consultants to ensure the accuracy of the set design, fashion, and cultural references. This commitment to authenticity contributed significantly to the show’s immersive quality.
11. What was the biggest challenge in filming the Starcourt Mall scenes?
One of the biggest challenges was likely coordinating the complex logistics of filming in a large, real-world location. This involved managing a large crew, actors, and equipment, as well as navigating the challenges of transforming a real space into a fictional environment.
12. Can fans still visit locations in Georgia where Stranger Things was filmed?
Yes, many other locations in Georgia that were used for filming Stranger Things are still accessible to the public. However, it’s essential to research specific locations and adhere to any rules or restrictions. Exploring these locations can offer fans a unique glimpse into the world of Hawkins and beyond. The Gwinnett Place Mall itself remains a point of interest, though its accessibility may vary.