Where Was The Movie The Help Filmed?

Where Was The Movie The Help Filmed?

“The Help,” directed by Tate Taylor and starring Emma Stone as Aibileen Clark and Viola Davis as Minny Jackson, is a powerful and poignant film that explores themes of racial injustice, empathy, and resilience in 1960s Mississippi. This classic drama has been praised for its authentic portrayal of Southern life and the impact it had on both cinema and society at large. In this article, we’ll delve into the locations where the film was shot to uncover the rich tapestry of settings that brought this story to life.

Filming Locations Across Mississippi

Oxford, Mississippi

Oxford is the primary filming location for “The Help.” The city served as a microcosm of the segregated South, providing a backdrop that accurately reflected the era’s social norms and prejudices. Key scenes were shot in various parts of Oxford, including:

  • University of Mississippi (Umbrellas): Here, students gather under umbrellas during rain showers, symbolizing the oppressive heat faced by African Americans working in the summer months.
  • Old Town Square: This area features the homes of the main characters, allowing viewers to experience their daily lives within the confines of their own neighborhood.
  • Jackson Street: Scenes set in Jackson Street highlight the stark contrast between the white upper class and the black lower class, reflecting the deep-seated racial divide of the time.

Laurel, Mississippi

Laurel, located just outside Oxford, provided additional locales for several pivotal scenes. Notable locations include:

  • Hickory Lane Apartments: These apartments became iconic representations of the wealthy white households in the film, showcasing the disparity between social classes.
  • Dewey Avenue: This street played host to many important events, from Aibileen’s meetings with her employer to Minny’s interactions with local residents.
  • Crescent Pointe Shopping Center: The shopping mall featured prominently in the film, serving as a place where tensions could escalate among different social groups.

Additional Locations in Other States

While most of the film took place in Mississippi, certain elements were shot elsewhere due to budgetary constraints or logistical reasons. For instance:

  • Atlanta, Georgia: Some exterior shots were taken in Atlanta, particularly focusing on the city skyline and cultural landmarks that would have been familiar to audiences in the late 1960s.
  • Miami Beach, Florida: A few scenes involving Aibileen’s visits to Miami showcased the tropical setting against which she worked hard to maintain dignity and respect.

Historical Context and Significance

The choice of locations in “The Help” reflects not only the aesthetic appeal of each site but also the historical context of the film. Each locale encapsulates a different aspect of southern life in the mid-20th century, from rural poverty to urban luxury, all while maintaining an air of authenticity that resonates deeply with viewers today.

  1. Q: Why did the filmmakers choose these specific locations?

    • A: The directors chose these locations based on their ability to authentically represent the period, capture the essence of Southern culture, and align with the film’s thematic focus on racial dynamics.

  2. Q: How does the film portray race relations in the 1960s?

    • A: Through the lens of three main characters—Aibileen, Minny, and Skeeter—the film depicts how race influenced every aspect of daily life, from employment opportunities to personal relationships. It highlights the pervasive racism and discrimination prevalent in the region.

  3. Q: What role do the cinematographers play in bringing the film to life?

    • A: Cinematographers like Roger Deakins, who won an Oscar for his work on “The Help,” contribute significantly to the visual storytelling by capturing the mood, atmosphere, and texture of each location. Their choices often reflect the tone and emotional depth required for the narrative.

  4. Q: How does the film address issues of female empowerment?

    • A: The film showcases the strength and determination of women, especially those of color, through the experiences of Aibileen, Minny, and Skeeter. These characters’ journeys serve as a testament to the resilience and voice that can emerge when given a platform to share their stories.

  5. Q: Did any particular scene stand out in terms of filming difficulty?

    • A: One notable challenge was shooting the sequence where Aibileen meets with her employers after being fired from her job. The shoot involved navigating a complex relationship dynamic while ensuring the realism of the scene without overstepping ethical boundaries related to racial tension.

By exploring the diverse array of locations used in “The Help,” we gain insight into the meticulous planning behind such a culturally significant film. Each chosen spot contributes uniquely to the overall narrative, creating a vivid picture of a world that continues to resonate powerfully with modern audiences.