Where Did They Film Ghostbusters: Afterlife and Why Does It Feel Like a Time Capsule of Nostalgia?

When it comes to the filming locations of Ghostbusters: Afterlife, the movie takes us on a journey that feels both familiar and fresh. Directed by Jason Reitman, the son of the original Ghostbusters director Ivan Reitman, the film pays homage to the 1984 classic while carving out its own identity. But where exactly did they film this nostalgic yet modern take on the beloved franchise? And why does it feel like stepping into a time capsule of the 1980s? Let’s dive into the details.
The Primary Filming Location: Alberta, Canada
The majority of Ghostbusters: Afterlife was filmed in the province of Alberta, Canada. Known for its stunning landscapes and versatile terrain, Alberta provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s small-town setting. The fictional town of Summerville, where the story unfolds, was brought to life in several real-life Alberta locations.
1. Fort Macleod: The Heart of Summerville
Fort Macleod, a small town in southern Alberta, served as the primary filming location for Summerville. With its charming, old-fashioned streets and historic buildings, Fort Macleod effortlessly captured the essence of a sleepy Midwestern town. The town’s Main Street was transformed into a nostalgic hub, complete with vintage storefronts and a sense of timelessness that harkens back to the original Ghostbusters era.
2. The Iconic Farmhouse
The farmhouse where the Spengler family resides is one of the most memorable locations in the film. This picturesque property is located near the town of Beiseker, Alberta. The farmhouse, surrounded by vast fields and rolling hills, adds a sense of isolation and mystery to the story. It’s a stark contrast to the urban setting of the original Ghostbusters, yet it feels like a natural progression for the franchise.
3. The Shandor Mine
The eerie Shandor Mine, a key location in the film, was filmed at the Drumheller Badlands. Known for its unique, otherworldly rock formations, the Badlands provided the perfect setting for the mine’s ominous atmosphere. The rugged terrain and desolate landscape added to the film’s sense of adventure and danger.
Why Alberta?
Alberta was chosen for its versatility and ability to mimic the Midwest United States. The province’s diverse landscapes allowed the filmmakers to create a cohesive world that felt both grounded and fantastical. Additionally, Alberta’s film-friendly policies and tax incentives made it an attractive choice for the production team.
The Nostalgic Connection
One of the most striking aspects of Ghostbusters: Afterlife is its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while telling a new story. The film’s locations play a significant role in this. By setting the story in a small town rather than a bustling city, the filmmakers were able to create a more intimate and personal narrative. The rural setting also allowed for a deeper exploration of the Spengler family’s history and their connection to the original Ghostbusters.
The use of practical effects and real locations, as opposed to heavy reliance on CGI, further enhances the film’s nostalgic feel. The farmhouse, the mine, and the town of Summerville all feel tangible and lived-in, much like the firehouse in the original Ghostbusters. This attention to detail helps bridge the gap between the old and the new, making Ghostbusters: Afterlife a worthy successor to the classic films.
The Legacy of the Original Filming Locations
While Ghostbusters: Afterlife takes place in a new setting, it doesn’t forget its roots. The film includes several nods to the original Ghostbusters locations, such as the iconic firehouse in New York City. Although the firehouse doesn’t play a central role in Afterlife, its presence is felt throughout the film, serving as a reminder of where it all began.
The Role of Filming Locations in Storytelling
The choice of filming locations in Ghostbusters: Afterlife is more than just a logistical decision; it’s a storytelling tool. The rural setting reflects the film’s themes of family, legacy, and rediscovery. The isolation of the farmhouse and the vastness of the Badlands mirror the characters’ emotional journeys as they uncover their connection to the Ghostbusters’ legacy.
Moreover, the contrast between the small-town setting and the supernatural elements of the story creates a unique tension. The familiar, everyday locations make the paranormal events feel even more unexpected and thrilling.
Conclusion
Ghostbusters: Afterlife is a film that beautifully balances nostalgia with innovation, and its filming locations play a crucial role in achieving this balance. From the charming streets of Fort Macleod to the haunting landscapes of the Drumheller Badlands, each location adds depth and texture to the story. By grounding the film in real, tangible places, the filmmakers have created a world that feels both fantastical and relatable.
So, where did they film Ghostbusters: Afterlife? In the heart of Alberta, Canada, where the past and present collide to create a cinematic experience that honors the legacy of the Ghostbusters while paving the way for new adventures.
Related Q&A
Q: Why was Alberta chosen as the filming location for Ghostbusters: Afterlife?
A: Alberta was chosen for its versatile landscapes, which could mimic the Midwest United States, and its film-friendly policies, including tax incentives.
Q: Is the town of Summerville a real place?
A: No, Summerville is a fictional town created for the film, but it was brought to life using real locations in Alberta, such as Fort Macleod.
Q: How do the filming locations contribute to the film’s nostalgic feel?
A: The use of practical locations and real sets, combined with the rural setting, evokes a sense of timelessness that connects the film to the original Ghostbusters.
Q: Are there any connections to the original Ghostbusters filming locations?
A: While the film is set in a new location, it includes nods to the original, such as the iconic firehouse in New York City, which serves as a reminder of the franchise’s roots.
Q: What role does the farmhouse play in the story?
A: The farmhouse is central to the film’s narrative, serving as the Spengler family’s home and a key location for uncovering the Ghostbusters’ legacy. Its isolated setting adds to the film’s sense of mystery and adventure.