Where Is The Series Justified Filmed

The biting social commentary and razor-sharp wit of the television series Justified captivated audiences for six seasons. But beyond the compelling storylines and memorable characters, the show's gritty realism was significantly enhanced by its evocative settings. While the narrative heart of Justified lay in the fictional Harlan County, Kentucky, the where is Justified filmed question leads to a more geographically diverse answer than many might expect.

Unveiling the Filming Locations of Justified

The story of Deputy U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, reassigned to his rural Kentucky hometown, unfolded against a backdrop of coal mines, backwoods cabins, and small-town bars. The visual landscape became as integral to the show's identity as its dialogue. While Justified aimed for authenticity in its portrayal of Appalachia, the reality of production economics and logistical considerations meant that the actual filming locations were primarily situated elsewhere. This blend of real and reel created the unique atmosphere that defined the show.

A Comprehensive Look at the Filming Locations

The visual tapestry of Justified was woven from various locations, each contributing to the show's overall ambiance. Although the series is set in Kentucky, the primary filming location was California.

California: The Heart of Production

Southern California, with its diverse landscapes and established film industry infrastructure, served as the primary production hub for Justified. Several locations within the state stood in for the fictional Harlan County.

Los Angeles County: The greater Los Angeles area provided the bulk of the filming locations. Soundstages in the region housed interior sets, including the U.S. Marshal's office and various characters' homes. The versatility of the surrounding areas allowed for the creation of exterior scenes that mimicked the Appalachian environment.
Santa Clarita: This city in Los Angeles County became a frequent stand-in for rural Kentucky. Its open spaces and mountainous terrain were easily transformed to resemble the backwoods of Harlan. Many of the show's exterior scenes, including those involving Raylan's encounters in the wilderness, were filmed in Santa Clarita and its surrounding areas.
Other Southern California Locations: Production crews utilized other locales across Southern California to capture specific environments. Desert landscapes, forests, and even certain architectural styles were sourced to provide the necessary visual elements for different episodes.

Kentucky: A Touch of Authenticity

While California provided the foundation for filming, Justified occasionally ventured to Kentucky to capture the genuine atmosphere of the region.

Harlan County: Despite the challenges of filming on location, the production team made efforts to shoot some scenes in Harlan County itself. These visits, though limited, provided valuable footage of the actual landscapes and towns that inspired the show's setting.
Other Kentucky Locations: Additional filming took place in other parts of Kentucky to capture specific visuals. These locations helped to enrich the show's authenticity and provide a sense of place that could not be replicated elsewhere.

Why California over Kentucky?

The decision to primarily film Justified in California was driven by several key factors:

Cost-Effectiveness: California's established film industry offered significant cost advantages. Access to experienced crews, readily available equipment, and existing infrastructure made production more efficient and budget-friendly.
Logistics: Filming in Southern California simplified logistical challenges. The proximity to major studios, post-production facilities, and a large talent pool streamlined the entire production process.
Climate and Accessibility: Southern California's favorable climate allowed for year-round filming. The region's accessibility, with its well-developed transportation network, further facilitated the movement of cast, crew, and equipment.
Tax Incentives: California, at the time of filming, offered tax incentives for television productions, making it a more financially attractive location compared to Kentucky.

The Art of Creating Harlan County

The production team behind Justified employed various techniques to create a believable portrayal of Harlan County, despite filming primarily in California.

Set Design: Meticulous set design played a crucial role in recreating the look and feel of Appalachian homes, businesses, and landscapes. Attention to detail, including the use of appropriate building materials, furniture, and props, helped to create authentic environments.
Location Scouting: Careful location scouting was essential for finding areas in California that resembled Kentucky. The production team sought out landscapes with similar topography, vegetation, and architectural styles.
Visual Effects: Visual effects were used to enhance certain scenes and create a seamless transition between locations. These effects helped to blend footage shot in California with establishing shots filmed in Kentucky, further blurring the lines between reality and fiction.
Accent Coaching: The actors worked with dialect coaches to perfect their Kentucky accents. This attention to linguistic detail added another layer of authenticity to the show's portrayal of Appalachian culture.

Trends and Latest Developments

The trend of filming television shows and movies in locations that stand in for others is a common practice in the entertainment industry. Several factors contribute to this trend, including cost considerations, logistical challenges, and the availability of tax incentives.

Rise of "Runaway Productions": The term "runaway productions" refers to film and television projects that are filmed outside of Hollywood, often in other states or countries, to take advantage of lower costs or tax breaks. This trend has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, as studios seek to maximize their profits.
Impact of Tax Incentives: State and local governments often offer tax incentives to attract film and television productions. These incentives can take the form of tax credits, rebates, or exemptions, and they can significantly reduce the cost of filming in a particular location.
Technological Advancements: Advances in visual effects technology have made it easier and more affordable to create believable environments in post-production. This has reduced the need to film on location, allowing productions to take place in more convenient and cost-effective areas.

Tips and Expert Advice

For aspiring filmmakers and location scouts, understanding the nuances of location management is crucial. Here are some tips to navigate the complexities of finding the perfect filming location:

Thorough Research is Key: Start by conducting in-depth research on potential filming locations. Consider the specific requirements of your project, including the type of environment, accessibility, and availability of local resources. Utilize online databases, film commissions, and local contacts to gather information.
- Scouting virtually through online resources can save time and resources in the initial stages. Look for photo galleries, virtual tours, and local government websites that showcase potential filming locations.
Consider the Budget: Be realistic about your budget and choose locations that align with your financial constraints. Factor in the costs of permits, transportation, accommodation, and local crew. Explore options for securing tax incentives or grants to offset expenses.
- Negotiate with local businesses and property owners to secure favorable rates for filming permits and location fees. Building relationships with the local community can lead to cost-saving opportunities and valuable support.
Scout in Person: Whenever possible, visit potential filming locations in person. This allows you to assess the suitability of the environment, identify any potential challenges, and establish relationships with local stakeholders.
- Bring a checklist of essential criteria when scouting locations. Document your observations with photos and videos to share with the production team. Consider factors such as natural light, sound levels, and potential disruptions.
Obtain Necessary Permits: Ensure that you obtain all necessary permits and permissions before filming. Contact local film commissions, government agencies, and property owners to understand the requirements and application process.
- Start the permit application process well in advance of your filming dates. Be prepared to provide detailed information about your project, including the location, dates, and activities involved. Failure to obtain proper permits can result in fines or legal action.
Build Relationships: Cultivate strong relationships with local communities, businesses, and government agencies. This can help you navigate logistical challenges, secure access to resources, and gain support for your project.
- Attend local events, meet with community leaders, and communicate your project's goals and benefits. Demonstrating respect for the local culture and environment can foster goodwill and create a positive filming experience.

FAQ

Was Justified actually filmed in Harlan County, Kentucky?
- While some scenes were filmed in Harlan County for authenticity, the majority of filming took place in California due to cost and logistical reasons.
Where in California was Justified filmed?
- The primary filming locations in California were in Los Angeles County, particularly Santa Clarita, which offered landscapes that resembled the Appalachian region.
Why didn't they film the entire series in Kentucky?
- Filming the entire series in Kentucky would have been significantly more expensive and logistically challenging. California's established film industry provided the necessary resources and infrastructure to support the production.
How did they make California look like Kentucky?
- The production team used meticulous set design, careful location scouting, visual effects, and accent coaching to create a believable portrayal of Harlan County in California.
Are there any other TV shows or movies filmed in similar locations?
- Yes, many TV shows and movies utilize locations that stand in for others due to cost considerations and logistical challenges. Examples include The Dukes of Hazzard (filmed in Georgia) and Twin Peaks (filmed in Washington State).

Conclusion

The captivating world of Justified, though rooted in the spirit of Harlan County, Kentucky, was brought to life through a blend of Californian landscapes and strategic on-location shoots. The question of where is Justified filmed reveals a complex answer, showcasing the practicalities and creative solutions employed in television production. While the primary filming location was Southern California, the occasional forays into Kentucky added a layer of authenticity that resonated with viewers. The show's success lies not just in its compelling narrative, but also in its ability to transport audiences to a world that felt both real and captivating, regardless of the actual filming locations. Dive deeper into the world of Justified - revisit your favorite episodes, explore behind-the-scenes documentaries, and share your favorite filming locations with fellow fans.