“What We Do in the Shadows,” the mockumentary sitcom that follows the hilarious misadventures of vampire roommates on Staten Island, masterfully blends the mundane with the macabre, creating a uniquely absurd and visually compelling world. The show’s principal filming locations, creating the exterior world and some of the interiors, are primarily found in and around Toronto, Ontario, Canada, with a significant portion of the iconic vampire mansion interiors meticulously crafted on purpose-built sound stages at Cinespace Film Studios, also located in Toronto.
Behind the Fangs: Toronto’s Role in Vampire Domination
While the show is emphatically set on Staten Island, New York, the reality is that the logistical and financial benefits of filming in Canada proved too alluring to resist. Toronto, with its diverse architecture, skilled crew, and attractive tax incentives, stepped in to become the backdrop for the nocturnal escapades of Nandor, Nadja, Laszlo, and Colin Robinson.
The production team skillfully utilized various locations around the city to convincingly portray the less glamorous side of Staten Island. Residential neighborhoods in Toronto’s west end, particularly around High Park and Swansea, are frequently used for exterior shots of the vampire mansion and surrounding streets. These areas offer the desired mix of older, stately homes and urban grit, creating a believable environment for vampires attempting to integrate (or, more accurately, fail to integrate) into modern society.
The most crucial element, the interior of the vampire mansion, is a complex set constructed within the Cinespace Film Studios. This allows the production team complete control over lighting, camera angles, and set design, contributing significantly to the show’s distinctive visual style. The sound stage environment allows for elaborate set pieces and complex special effects, all while maintaining a consistent aesthetic that defines the show’s unique brand of humor.
Deep Dives: Unmasking the Filming Locations
Beyond the general locations, some specific details have emerged about the filming process. While specific addresses are often kept under wraps to prevent unwanted attention, careful observation and location scouting by fans have yielded interesting findings. For example, certain scenes taking place in parks or public spaces are often filmed in and around High Park, one of Toronto’s largest and most iconic parks.
The production design team has also been commended for their dedication to creating a believable and immersive world. Intricate details, such as the aged wallpaper, antique furniture, and subtle hints of the supernatural, contribute to the show’s overall atmosphere. The use of practical effects and careful lighting further enhances the illusion, making it easy to forget that you’re watching a carefully constructed set rather than a real, dilapidated vampire mansion.
FAQs: Sinking Your Teeth Into the Details
Here are some frequently asked questions about the filming locations of “What We Do in the Shadows,” providing even more insight into the show’s production:
FAQ 1: Is the Vampire Mansion a Real House?
No, the primary interior of the vampire mansion is not a real house. It’s a meticulously designed and constructed set on a sound stage at Cinespace Film Studios in Toronto. Exterior shots of houses used to depict the mansion are taken at various houses in Toronto and its surrounding areas.
FAQ 2: Why Was Toronto Chosen Over Staten Island?
The primary reason for choosing Toronto was the financial benefits offered by Canadian tax incentives for film and television productions. Toronto also boasts a highly skilled crew and a diverse range of locations that can convincingly double for Staten Island.
FAQ 3: Can I Visit the Vampire Mansion Set?
Unfortunately, no. The interior set is located within a private studio, and public access is not permitted. However, you might be able to catch glimpses of exterior shots being filmed in residential areas of Toronto if you’re lucky.
FAQ 4: Does the Show Ever Film in Staten Island?
While the vast majority of filming takes place in Toronto, it’s possible that some establishing shots or brief exterior scenes are filmed in Staten Island to enhance the authenticity of the setting. However, these instances are rare.
FAQ 5: Are There Any Notable Landmarks Used as Filming Locations in Toronto?
While specific landmarks are not overtly featured, areas around High Park are often used for park scenes. The production team typically focuses on finding residential streets and buildings that resemble the architecture of Staten Island.
FAQ 6: Who is Responsible for the Show’s Impressive Set Design?
The show’s impressive set design is the result of the combined efforts of the production designer and their team. They are responsible for creating the overall look and feel of the show, including the vampire mansion and other recurring locations.
FAQ 7: How Much Does it Cost to Build a Set Like the Vampire Mansion?
The cost of building a set like the vampire mansion is significant and depends on various factors, including the size of the set, the level of detail, and the construction materials used. It can easily run into the hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
FAQ 8: What Kind of Research Goes Into Creating the Look of the Show?
The production team conducts extensive research to ensure that the show’s visuals are both believable and aesthetically pleasing. This includes studying the architecture and decor of Staten Island, researching vampire lore, and experimenting with different lighting and camera techniques.
FAQ 9: How Does the Use of a Sound Stage Affect the Show’s Aesthetic?
Filming on a sound stage allows the production team to have complete control over the environment, including lighting, sound, and camera angles. This contributes to the show’s distinctive visual style and allows for more elaborate special effects.
FAQ 10: Are Any Other Shows Filmed at Cinespace Film Studios?
Yes, Cinespace Film Studios is a popular filming location for many other television shows and movies. Its diverse range of sound stages and backlots makes it an attractive option for productions of all sizes.
FAQ 11: Where Can I Find More Information About Filming Locations in Toronto?
You can find more information about filming locations in Toronto by searching online resources such as film commissions, location scouting websites, and fan forums dedicated to the show. Be mindful of respecting privacy when exploring potential locations.
FAQ 12: Will the Show Continue to Film in Toronto?
Given the success of the show and the benefits of filming in Toronto, it’s highly likely that future seasons will continue to be filmed in the same location. The city has become synonymous with the show’s unique visual identity.
In Conclusion: A Shadowy Legacy
“What We Do in the Shadows” has successfully crafted a captivating world that blends the mundane with the supernatural, thanks in no small part to the strategic use of Toronto as its primary filming location and the intricate set design within Cinespace Film Studios. The show’s ability to transport viewers to Staten Island, while simultaneously benefiting from the logistical advantages of filming in Canada, is a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of the production team. From the carefully chosen residential streets to the meticulously constructed vampire mansion, every detail contributes to the show’s unique and hilarious charm, solidifying its place as a modern comedic masterpiece.