In the world of streaming entertainment, Netflix has once again captivated audiences with its gripping psychological thriller, “Eric.”
This new psychological masterpiece not only keeps viewers on the edge of their seats but also transports them to a meticulously crafted 1980s New York.
But where did the cameras actually roll to bring this haunting tale to life? Let’s pull back the curtain and explore the fascinating filming locations that helped shape the series’ atmospheric allure.
Setting the Scene: “Eric” Unpacked
Before we embark on our location-hopping journey, let’s set the stage. “Eric” follows Vincent, a famous puppeteer whose life unravels when his young son Edgar goes missing.
In his desperate quest to find the boy, Vincent turns to his blue monster puppet, Eric, believing it holds the key to his son’s whereabouts.
As Detective Ledroit delves deeper into the case, the lines between reality and fantasy blur in the gritty backdrop of 1980s New York.
Why do filming locations matter so much in storytelling? They’re not just pretty backdrops; they’re silent characters that breathe life into the narrative.
In “Eric,” the locations serve as a time machine, whisking us back to a bygone era while amplifying the psychological tension that permeates every frame.
Budapest: The Heart of “Eric”
Surprised? You might be wondering why a show set in 1980s New York kicked off its production in Hungary’s capital. Well, Budapest stole the show for several compelling reasons:
- Versatile architectural landscape: Budapest’s eclectic mix of architectural styles, from grand baroque buildings to gritty industrial zones, provided a chameleon-like canvas for the series.
- Cost-effective production perks: Hungary’s film-friendly tax incentives and lower production costs made it an attractive choice for Netflix.
Iconic Budapest Spots Featured
- Andrássy Avenue: This grand boulevard, with its neo-renaissance mansions, doubled as upscale New York streets.
- Gellért Thermal Bath: The art nouveau splendor of this famous spa lent an air of faded glamour to certain scenes.
“Budapest’s ability to transform into 1980s New York is nothing short of cinematic alchemy.” – Eric’s Production Designer
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Budapest as 1980s New York
How did Budapest pull off this time-traveling act? It’s all about the details:
- Vintage American cars were imported and strategically placed
- Shop fronts were meticulously dressed with period-appropriate signage
- CGI was used sparingly to erase modern elements and add iconic NYC landmarks
New York City: The Big Apple Bites Back
While Budapest played a starring role, the actual filming couldn’t skip the real deal. New York City lent its inimitable energy to key scenes in “Eric.”
Authentic NYC Locations Used
- Lower Manhattan: The gritty streets provided the perfect backdrop for Vincent’s nocturnal wanderings.
- Central Park: Its timeless appeal served as a poignant reminder of Edgar’s favorite playground.
Challenges of Filming in NYC
Shooting in the city that never sleeps comes with its own set of hurdles:
- Permits and red tape: Navigating NYC’s bureaucratic maze requires patience and precision.
- Crowd control: Keeping eager New Yorkers and tourists out of shots is a full-time job.
New Jersey: The Unexpected Co-Star
The Garden State might not scream “glamorous filming location,” but it played a crucial role in bringing “Eric” to life.
Key Scenes Filmed in New Jersey
- Suburban landscapes: These provided the perfect setting for character backstories and flashbacks.
- Industrial areas: New Jersey’s less picturesque spots doubled convincingly as NYC’s grittier outskirts.
Why New Jersey? It offered:
- Proximity to NYC
- More flexible filming conditions
- A diverse range of locations within a small area
Behind the Scenes: Crafting the “Eric” World
Creating the immersive world of “Eric” required more than just finding the right locations. It demanded a perfect blend of set design wizardry and cinematographic magic.
Set Design Wizardry
The production team went all out to recreate authentic 1980s aesthetics:
- Sourced period-appropriate props from vintage stores and collectors
- Meticulously researched color palettes typical of the era
- Created custom pieces to match the show’s unique visual style
Cinematography Tricks
To unify the diverse locations and maintain the show’s distinctive look:
- Used consistent color grading to blend Budapest and NYC footage seamlessly
- Employed vintage lenses to capture that ’80s film look
- Utilized practical lighting techniques to enhance the noir atmosphere
The Impact of Locations on “Eric’s” Atmosphere
The carefully chosen locations do more than just provide a backdrop; they actively enhance the show’s themes and emotional resonance.
How Settings Enhance the Show’s Themes
- Cramped NYC apartments reflect Vincent’s increasingly claustrophobic mental state
- Vast, empty streets mirror the hollowness of loss
- Shadowy alleyways symbolize the dark recesses of the human psyche
Viewer Reactions
Fans have been buzzing about how the locations contribute to the show’s immersive quality:
“I felt like I was right there in 1980s New York. The attention to detail is mind-blowing!” – @EricFanatic on Twitter
Comparing “Eric” to Other Netflix Hits
“Eric” stands out in Netflix’s impressive lineup of psychological thrillers. Let’s see how it measures up:
| Series | Primary Location | Era | Distinctive Visual Element |
|---|---|---|---|
| “Eric” | Budapest/NYC | 1980s | Blue monster puppet |
| “Stranger Things” | Atlanta (as Indiana) | 1980s | The Upside Down |
| “Mindhunter” | Pittsburgh | 1970s-80s | Interview rooms |
What sets “Eric” apart is its unique blend of European and American locations, creating a familiar yet slightly off-kilter version of 1980s New York that perfectly matches the show’s psychological underpinnings.
Plan Your Own “Eric” Location Tour
For die-hard fans looking to immerse themselves in the world of “Eric,” here’s a must-visit list:
- Budapest:
- Andrássy Avenue
- Gellért Thermal Bath
- New York Café (ironically, a Budapest landmark)
- New York City:
- Washington Square Park
- Staten Island Ferry (featured in a pivotal scene)
- The Lower East Side
- New Jersey:
- Liberty State Park (for skyline views featured in the show)
- Historic Jersey City & Hoboken streets
Hidden Gem: The abandoned Glenwood Power Plant in Yonkers, NY, which served as a stand-in for several of the show’s more ominous locations.
What’s Next? The Future of Netflix’s Location Scouting
As “Eric” captivates audiences worldwide, it’s worth pondering the future of location choices in Netflix productions.
Trends in Global Production Locations
- Increased use of Eastern European cities for their versatility and cost-effectiveness
- Growing interest in lesser-known US locations to avoid over-saturation of familiar sights
- Advancements in VFX allowing for more creative location choices
Potential Settings for “Eric” Season 2
While a second season hasn’t been confirmed, fans are already speculating about potential new locations:
- Montreal (for its ability to double as multiple cities)
- Prague (for its gothic architecture and moody atmosphere)
- New Orleans (for its unique blend of history and mystique)
Wrapping Up: Why “Eric’s” Locations Are a Character in Their Own Right
The brilliance of “Eric” lies not just in its gripping storyline and stellar performances, but in how it uses its locations to create a living, breathing world.
From the grand boulevards of Budapest to the gritty alleys of New York, each setting adds layers of depth to this psychological thriller.
As viewers, we’re not just watching Vincent’s journey unfold; we’re walking alongside him through meticulously crafted environments that echo his internal struggles.
The famous puppeteer’s quest to find his missing son Edgar becomes our own, with every location offering new clues and deepening the mystery.
In the end, “Eric” reminds us that in the best productions, the where is just as important as the who and the what. It’s a testament to the power of place in storytelling, and a masterclass in using locations to heighten drama, tension, and emotional impact.
So the next time you’re binge-watching “Eric,” take a moment to appreciate the unseen star of the show: the locations that bring this dark, compelling world to life.
Who knows? You might find yourself booking a ticket to Budapest or New York, eager to step into the shadowy, fascinating world of “Eric” for yourself.
FAQs: Unraveling the Mysteries of “Eric’s” Filming Locations
Q: Did they really film everything in Budapest?
A: No, while Budapest played a significant role, key scenes were also shot in New York City and New Jersey to capture authentic locations and atmospheres.
Q: How did they make modern locations look like the 1980s?
A: Through a combination of set dressing, prop sourcing, and strategic filming angles. CGI was used sparingly to remove modern elements and add period-specific details.
Q: Can fans visit all the filming locations?
A: Many locations in Budapest, New York, and New Jersey are accessible to the public. However, some private or studio locations may not be open for visits.
Q: Were any scenes filmed on soundstages?
A: Yes, while the production favored on-location shooting, some interior scenes and more complex setups were filmed on soundstages for greater control over the environment.
Q: How long did filming take in each location?
A: While exact schedules aren’t public, typical high-end TV productions spend several weeks in each major location. Budapest likely saw the longest shooting period, followed by shorter stints in New York and New Jersey.
David Lee is a seasoned writer specializing in filming locations. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for cinema, David explores the stories behind iconic sites and shares unique insights that bring your favorite films and series to life.
