Where did they film “Dark Shadows”? This question often arises for fans of the iconic 1960s television series and the 2012 film adaptation. The mysterious and eerie world of Collinwood, the main setting of the story, has captured the imagination of audiences for decades. In this article, we will explore the filming locations that brought this supernatural tale to life.
The original “Dark Shadows” television series, which aired from 1966 to 1971, was filmed primarily at the now-defunct MGM Studios in Culver City, California. The studio, which was once the largest in the world, served as the backdrop for many classic films and television shows. The series’ production utilized several soundstages and outdoor sets to create the gothic atmosphere of Collinwood Manor.
For the 2012 film adaptation, directed by Tim Burton, the filmmakers chose to shoot in various locations to capture the essence of the original series. One of the primary filming sites was the historic Collingwood Manor in County Wicklow, Ireland. This stunning 18th-century country house provided the perfect setting for the film’s exterior scenes, including the grand entrance of Collinwood Manor and the surrounding gardens.
Additionally, the team behind the film used the beautiful town of Glendalough, also located in County Wicklow, as a stand-in for the fictional Collinwood village. The serene lakeside setting added to the film’s eerie charm and complemented the supernatural elements of the story.
Back in the United States, the production crew turned to the Universal Studios Hollywood backlot to recreate the interior of Collinwood Manor. The Universal Studios backlot is home to numerous iconic movie sets, including the classic Universal monsters’ homes. The team carefully reconstructed the manor’s grand hall, library, and other key locations, ensuring that the film’s fans would feel at home in this familiar gothic setting.
In conclusion, the filming of “Dark Shadows” spanned multiple locations, both in the United States and Ireland, to create the perfect atmosphere for this supernatural tale. From the eerie Collingwood Manor to the picturesque Irish countryside, the diverse filming locations contributed to the enduring legacy of this classic story.
