‘This Is Where I Leave You,’ the 2014 comedy-drama featuring an all-star cast, primarily filmed in New York City and Long Island, creating a relatable suburban backdrop for its poignant family drama. The film’s core setting, the Altman family home where the week-long shiva takes place, is a significant location, alongside various others in the surrounding areas, contributing to the film’s overall sense of authenticity and groundedness.
Unveiling the Filming Locations of the Altman Family Saga
The heart of ‘This Is Where I Leave You’ resides in its depiction of family dynamics within the confined space of the Altman home. While the film weaves a narrative of grief, dysfunction, and ultimately, reconciliation, the carefully chosen filming locations provide a realistic and relatable environment. Let’s explore these locations further:
The Altman House: The Center of the Storm
The Altman family home, a picturesque suburban residence where most of the film’s key scenes unfold, is arguably the most crucial filming location. This house isn’t a studio set, but rather a real house located in New City, Rockland County, New York. The filmmakers chose this particular house for its inviting exterior and interior layout that facilitated the filming of multiple characters interacting in shared spaces. Its classic American suburban design further enhances the film’s theme of familial connection and the complex emotions that often simmer beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary lives.
Beyond the Home: Exploring Other New York Filming Sites
While the Altman house provides the central setting, other locations in New York contribute significantly to the film’s overall aesthetic. These include:
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Congers, New York: The town of Congers, also in Rockland County, served as a backdrop for several exterior scenes, further establishing the suburban environment. Look closely and you may recognize local businesses and streets contributing to the movie’s atmosphere.
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Westchester County: Certain scenes were also shot in Westchester County, adding to the diverse collection of locales within the greater New York area. Specific details of these Westchester County locations are harder to come by, but they contribute to the overall impression of a bustling yet close-knit community.
Crafting the Authenticity: The Importance of Location
The decision to film on location, rather than solely in a studio, played a pivotal role in capturing the realistic feel of ‘This Is Where I Leave You.’ By using real homes and towns, the filmmakers grounded the story in a tangible reality, allowing the audience to connect with the characters and their experiences on a deeper level. This authenticity enhances the impact of the film’s themes of family, grief, and forgiveness, making it a more compelling and emotionally resonant experience for viewers.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Filming of “This Is Where I Leave You”
Here are some frequently asked questions about the filming locations of “This Is Where I Leave You,” providing a more comprehensive understanding of the production process and the choices behind the setting.
FAQ 1: Was the Altman House a Real Home or a Set?
The Altman house was a real home located in New City, Rockland County, New York. It was not a set built for the film, which contributed significantly to the movie’s authentic atmosphere.
FAQ 2: Can You Visit the Altman House?
While it’s a private residence, it is technically possible to drive by the house in New City, NY. However, respecting the homeowner’s privacy is essential. Treat it as you would any private property.
FAQ 3: Were Any Scenes Filmed Outside of New York?
No, all principal photography for “This Is Where I Leave You” took place in New York State, primarily in Rockland and Westchester Counties.
FAQ 4: Why Was New York Chosen as the Filming Location?
New York’s diverse landscapes, from bustling cityscapes to quiet suburban neighborhoods, offered the perfect backdrop for the film’s story. The filmmakers sought a location that felt both relatable and authentic, and the suburban areas of New York provided that setting.
FAQ 5: Did the Actors Enjoy Filming on Location?
Reports suggest that the cast enjoyed filming on location, appreciating the realistic environment and the opportunity to bond as an ensemble. The sense of community fostered by the location likely contributed to the film’s overall chemistry.
FAQ 6: How Did the Location Impact the Storytelling?
The location played a crucial role in grounding the film in reality. The authenticity of the suburban setting helped to create a relatable and emotionally resonant experience for the audience, enhancing the impact of the film’s themes.
FAQ 7: Were Any Famous Landmarks Featured in the Film?
While the film focuses on the suburban setting, there are no prominent famous landmarks featured in “This Is Where I Leave You.” The emphasis remained on the ordinary and everyday aspects of suburban life.
FAQ 8: Did the Local Community Support the Filming?
Yes, the local communities in Rockland and Westchester Counties were generally supportive of the filming. Film productions often bring economic benefits to local businesses and create a sense of excitement in the area.
FAQ 9: How Long Did Filming Take?
Specific details about the exact filming schedule are not widely publicized. However, a film of this scale typically involves several weeks or months of shooting, including preparation and post-production work.
FAQ 10: Was the House Interior Actually Used for Filming?
Yes, the interior of the house in New City was used extensively for filming. The layout and design of the house were crucial in depicting the Altman family’s close quarters during the shiva.
FAQ 11: Are There Any Behind-the-Scenes Photos or Videos Showing the Filming Locations?
Searching online using keywords like “This Is Where I Leave You filming locations behind the scenes” may yield some results, including articles, interviews, and potentially some behind-the-scenes photos or videos. Social media may also provide insights.
FAQ 12: What Makes the Location Choices in This Film Stand Out?
The deliberate decision to use real locations, particularly the Altman house, makes this film stand out. It prioritizes authenticity and relatability over glamour and spectacle, which enhances the audience’s connection to the characters and their story. The suburban setting adds a layer of emotional depth, making the film a poignant exploration of family dynamics in a familiar environment.