“What We Do in the Shadows,” the uproariously funny mockumentary series and film, transports viewers to the darkly comedic lives of vampire roommates. While ostensibly set in Staten Island, New York, the filming locations cleverly blend real-world environments with meticulously crafted sets, primarily in Toronto, Canada.
The Toronto Bite: Primary Filming Hub
The majority of “What We Do in the Shadows,” both the film and the series, found its home base in Toronto, Ontario. This strategic choice offered several advantages, including access to skilled production crews, established studio facilities, and a cityscape that could convincingly double for the urban sprawl of New York.
Specifically, Cinespace Film Studios in Toronto played a crucial role. The interior shots of the vampires’ dilapidated mansion, with its gothic architecture and cobweb-draped corners, were primarily constructed and filmed within the studio’s soundstages. The production team meticulously designed these sets to capture the eerie and claustrophobic atmosphere crucial to the show’s comedic tone. The authenticity achieved here is a testament to the team’s dedication to immersive world-building.
Beyond the studio walls, Toronto provided a wealth of external locations. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, with their mix of historic buildings and modern developments, offered the perfect backdrop for the vampires’ nocturnal excursions.
Beyond Toronto: Authentic New York Touches
While Toronto forms the core of the filming process, the producers didn’t completely abandon the promise of Staten Island. Select scenes were filmed on location in New York to add an extra layer of authenticity. These usually involve establishing shots of Staten Island landmarks, carefully integrated with the Toronto footage. These short bursts of true location shooting serve to bridge the geographical divide and reinforce the series’ stated location.
The skillful blending of Toronto and New York locations creates a seamless viewing experience, contributing significantly to the show’s believability and comedic impact. This hybrid approach allows for controlled studio filming while maintaining a connection to the show’s purported setting.
FAQs: Sinking Our Teeth Deeper
H2: Common Questions About the Filming of “What We Do in the Shadows”
H3: Was the Film Entirely Shot in Staten Island?
No. While the show is set in Staten Island, New York, the primary filming location is actually Toronto, Canada. Select establishing shots and brief scenes were filmed in Staten Island to provide visual authenticity.
H3: Why Was Toronto Chosen as the Main Filming Location?
Toronto offers numerous advantages, including access to established studio facilities (like Cinespace), skilled production crews, tax incentives, and a cityscape that can convincingly stand in for many urban environments, including parts of New York.
H3: Where Exactly in Toronto Was the Show Filmed?
Many of the interior scenes, particularly those within the vampire mansion, were filmed at Cinespace Film Studios in Toronto. Various external locations throughout the city were also used to portray different parts of Staten Island.
H3: How Do They Make Toronto Look Like Staten Island?
The production team employs various techniques, including clever camera angles, set dressing, visual effects, and on-location filming in Staten Island for select shots. This combination creates a believable sense of place.
H3: Were Any Real Staten Island Landmarks Featured?
Yes. The show often includes establishing shots of recognizable Staten Island landmarks, such as the Staten Island Ferry and specific streets and neighborhoods, to ground the series in its purported location.
H3: Did the Actors Ever Film On Location in New York?
Yes, the main cast and crew did film on location in Staten Island for short periods, mainly to capture these key establishing shots and specific scenes that required the visual distinctiveness of the area. These moments are crucial for establishing a geographic grounding.
H3: What About the Special Effects? Were They All Done in Post-Production?
While a significant portion of the special effects, such as vampire transformations and flying sequences, were indeed created in post-production using computer-generated imagery (CGI), practical effects were also used whenever possible to enhance the realism.
H3: Did They Use Real Animals, Like Bats, in the Show?
While some bats may have been used in some background scenes, for scenes requiring close interaction, CGI or animatronic bats were typically employed for safety and ethical reasons. The use of CGI allows for greater control over the bat’s movements and expressions.
H3: How Long Does It Take to Film One Episode of “What We Do in the Shadows”?
The filming schedule can vary, but typically it takes approximately two to three weeks to film a single episode, depending on the complexity of the script, the number of locations, and the special effects required.
H3: Who Is Responsible for Finding the Filming Locations?
The location manager and their team are responsible for scouting and securing suitable filming locations. They work closely with the director and production designer to ensure that the locations align with the show’s aesthetic and narrative requirements.
H3: Does the Show Use Any Green Screen Technology?
Yes, green screen technology is used extensively, particularly for scenes involving flying, transformations, and supernatural abilities. This allows the actors to perform in a controlled environment, while the special effects team can later add the necessary visual elements.
H3: Are There Any Plans to Film More in Staten Island in Future Seasons?
While there have been no official announcements regarding increased filming in Staten Island, the production team remains committed to maintaining a sense of authenticity and may explore opportunities to incorporate more on-location footage in future seasons, depending on logistical and budgetary considerations. The fanbase generally appreciates the extra effort for the realistic look, so they may be swayed.
A Symbiotic Relationship: Location and Comedy
The choice of Toronto as the primary filming location, combined with strategic on-location shoots in Staten Island, demonstrates a clever approach to filmmaking that prioritizes both efficiency and authenticity. This delicate balance contributes significantly to the show’s unique charm and comedic brilliance. The believable backdrop allows the actors to fully inhabit their roles, amplifying the humor and absurdity of the vampire roommates’ everyday lives. The success of “What We Do in the Shadows” hinges, in part, on this meticulous attention to detail in creating a world that is both fantastical and strangely relatable. The show thrives because the visual believability enhances the comedic performances.