Where Was The Color Purple Filmed?

The Color Purple, Steven Spielberg’s cinematic masterpiece released in 1985, captivated audiences worldwide with its poignant story and vibrant characters. While the story itself transports viewers to rural Georgia in the early 20th century, you might be surprised to learn that the movie’s filming locations took the production team beyond the borders of the American South. So, where did they film Color Purple? Let’s delve into the world of Celie and explore the beautiful landscapes that brought her story to life.

Filming in North Carolina: A Stand-In for Georgia

While The Color Purple is set in Georgia, the majority of filming actually took place in North Carolina. The state’s diverse landscapes and charming small towns offered the perfect backdrop to recreate the rural Southern atmosphere of the early 1900s.

One of the most important filming locations was the town of Marshville, North Carolina, which served as the fictional town of “Rural Georgia.” The production team transformed Marshville, using its historic buildings and rural roads to capture the essence of Celie’s world.

Another key location in North Carolina was the town of Shelby. Here, the crew meticulously built the set for Celie’s house and Mr.____’s farm, which became central locations for the film’s emotional narrative.

Beyond North Carolina: A Touch of Africa

Although North Carolina served as the primary filming location, the production team also ventured outside the United States to capture the essence of Africa. A small portion of the film was shot in Kenya, bringing authenticity to the scenes depicting Celie’s stepson, Adam, and his family in their African homeland.

The inclusion of these scenes not only added visual richness to the film but also underscored the importance of Celie’s African heritage and its impact on her journey of self-discovery.

The Legacy of The Color Purple’s Filming Locations

The filming locations of The Color Purple have become pilgrimage sites for fans of the film and the book it’s based on. Today, visitors can explore Marshville and Shelby, North Carolina, and trace the footsteps of Celie, Shug, and other beloved characters. These locations serve as a reminder of the film’s enduring power and its ability to transport audiences to a different time and place.

Conclusion

The Color Purple’s filming locations, primarily in North Carolina with a touch of Kenya, played a crucial role in bringing Alice Walker’s powerful story to life. Through meticulous set design and the use of authentic locations, Steven Spielberg and his team created a visually stunning and emotionally resonant world that continues to captivate audiences today. The film’s legacy lives on, not only in its moving story but also in the beautiful landscapes that served as its backdrop. If you’re ever in North Carolina, why not take a trip to Marshville or Shelby and experience a piece of cinematic history?

FAQs

  1. What year was The Color Purple filmed?
    The Color Purple was filmed in 1985.

  2. Was The Color Purple filmed in Georgia?
    While the film is set in Georgia, the majority of filming actually took place in North Carolina.

  3. Why was The Color Purple filmed in North Carolina?
    North Carolina was chosen for its diverse landscapes, charming small towns, and ability to recreate the rural Southern atmosphere of the early 20th century.

  4. What other movies have been filmed in Marshville, North Carolina?
    Marshville, North Carolina, has been a filming location for several other movies, including “Days of Thunder” and “The Last of the Mohicans.”

  5. Can I visit the filming locations of The Color Purple?
    Yes, you can visit many of the filming locations of The Color Purple, including Marshville and Shelby, North Carolina. These locations offer a chance to step back in time and experience the film’s magic firsthand.

Other Frequently Asked Questions:

  • What are some other movies filmed in North Carolina?
  • Where can I find more information about The Color Purple?
  • What are some other books by Alice Walker?

You might also be interested in:

Need help?

For further assistance, please contact us:

We have a 24/7 customer service team ready to assist you.