Where was True Detective filmed Season 1?
True Detective Season 1, a crime drama anthology series, premiered in 2014 and captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and atmospheric cinematography. The show’s creators, Nic Pizzolatto and Cary Joji Fukunaga, spared no expense in crafting a visually stunning series that transported viewers to the depths of the American South. But where exactly was True Detective Season 1 filmed?
New Orleans, Louisiana
The majority of True Detective Season 1 was filmed in New Orleans, Louisiana. The city’s unique architecture, rich history, and atmospheric atmosphere made it the perfect backdrop for the show’s dark and moody narrative. Over 70% of the series was filmed in New Orleans, with many iconic locations serving as settings for the show’s pivotal scenes.
Oak Alley Plantation, Louisiana
One of the most iconic locations in True Detective Season 1 is the Oak Alley Plantation, located in Vacherie, Louisiana. This stunning antebellum mansion, built in 1837, was used as the exterior of the Cohle’s family home. The plantation’s majestic oak trees and picturesque grounds added to the show’s sense of nostalgia and foreboding.
Shreveport, Louisiana
Shreveport, Louisiana, served as the primary filming location for the show’s opening scenes, which take place in 1995. The city’s downtown area and historic buildings were used to recreate the setting of the early 1990s, with many of the show’s main characters visiting the iconic Shreveport Riverboat.
Other Locations
While New Orleans and Shreveport were the primary filming locations, other parts of Louisiana and surrounding states were also used. Some notable locations include:
• Cahawba Plantation, near Natchez, Mississippi, which served as the location for the Cohle’s family home.
• St. Francisville, Louisiana, which stood in for the town of Carcosa.
• The Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, near New Orleans, which was used as the setting for the show’s hunting scenes.
Timeline of Filming
The filming of True Detective Season 1 took place over several months, with principal photography beginning in February 2013 and wrapping up in September 2013. Post-production work was completed in early 2014, with the show premiering on January 12, 2014.
Conclusion
True Detective Season 1 was a critical and commercial success, thanks in large part to its atmospheric cinematography and carefully chosen filming locations. From the historic Oak Alley Plantation to the vibrant city of New Orleans, the show’s creators spared no expense in crafting a visually stunning series that transported viewers to the depths of the American South. Whether you’re a fan of the show or just interested in exploring the world of True Detective, this article has provided a comprehensive guide to the filming locations of Season 1.
Table: True Detective Season 1 Filming Locations
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| New Orleans, Louisiana | 70% of the series was filmed here |
| Oak Alley Plantation, Louisiana | Exterior of Cohle’s family home |
| Shreveport, Louisiana | Downtown area and historic buildings used for 1995 scenes |
| Cahawba Plantation, Mississippi | Cohle’s family home |
| St. Francisville, Louisiana | Town of Carcosa |
| Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, Louisiana | Hunting scenes |
Bullets List: Notable Locations
• Oak Alley Plantation
• Shreveport Riverboat
• Cahawba Plantation
• St. Francisville
• Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge
