The 1960s daytime soap opera Dark Shadows has become an iconic television show, remembered for its gothic horror setting, campy humor, and a strong fan base. Since its creation, fans have been curious to learn the locations where Dark Shadows was filmed. Of course, a show that has been around for over 50 years is sure to have had some interesting filming locations, and this blog post will answer the question “where was Dark Shadows filmed?” In this post, I will discuss the various filming locations used throughout the series, as well as some of the iconic scenes that were shot at each of these places. Furthermore, I will explore how the production team managed to use the same locations to tell different stories, as well as how the show’s supernatural elements were brought to life through the show’s filming locations. So join me as I take you on a journey back in time to explore the places that brought the world of Dark Shadows to life.
1. Primary filming locations in California
The cult classic “Dark Shadows” was primarily filmed in California. Scenes of the show were shot in studios in Los Angeles, Burbank, and Hollywood, as well as on location throughout California. Locations included the San Fernando Valley, Marin County, and the Hollywood Hills, among others. Some of the outdoor scenes were shot at Vasquez Rocks, a notable rock formation in the Antelope Valley near Los Angeles.
2. Secondary filming locations in Maine
Though primarily filmed at MGM Studios in Los Angeles, California, the Dark Shadows television series also included some secondary filming locations. The cast and crew spent time in Maine to shoot scenes at the Camden Opera House and at the historic mansion of Camden’s owner, Hal Price. Price’s estate was used to film exteriors of the Collinwood mansion, and the Camden Opera House was used for the interiors. The Camden area also served as the backdrop for the show’s outdoor scenes.
3. Use of stock footage of locations around the world
Stock footage of locations around the world can be invaluable when creating a film like Dark Shadows. Stock footage can be used to fill in background scenes or to add a sense of realism to a scene. For example, if a scene takes place in a city, stock footage of that city can be used to create a more immersive experience. Stock footage can also be used to show viewers the actual locations where the movie was filmed, such as the town of Collinsport, Maine. This helps to bring the world of Dark Shadows to life.
4. Most exterior shots filmed on the set at Universal Studios
4. Most exterior shots filmed on the set at Universal Studios. Dark Shadows was primarily filmed at Universal Studios in Hollywood, California. The show’s outdoor scenes were also filmed on the backlot at Universal Studios, with a few scenes taking place at other nearby locations. One of the show’s most iconic outdoor scenes, the arrival of Barnabas Collins at Collinwood, was filmed at the nearby Bronson Canyon.
5. Interiors filmed at MGM Studios in Culver City, California
The interiors for the 1960s hit TV show, Dark Shadows, were filmed at MGM Studios in Culver City, California. Many of the sets were built specifically for the show, including the interior of Collinwood, a mansion that served as the home of the show’s main characters. The studio also had an extensive library of props and furnishings that were used to decorate the sets. The studio also provided an actual stairway to the second floor of the mansion and a spacious garden area where outdoor scenes were filmed. The studio was a great asset to the show, and the producers often used its resources to create the perfect atmosphere and mood for the show.
In conclusion, Dark Shadows was filmed in both a studio, and on location. The series was filmed at Pinewood Studios in London, and various other locations around England, including the villages of Hartfield, East Grinstead, and Camber Sands. The series also featured visits to the towns of Chatham, Rochester, and Bradgate Park in Leicestershire. The series’ gothic setting and supernatural themes remain iconic to this day, and the show continues to be a fan favorite.
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