In the realm of historical drama series, “The Chosen” has carved out a unique niche, captivating audiences with its portrayal of Jesus’ life and ministry. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of The Chosen Season 4, let’s embark on a fascinating journey through the stunning filming locations that bring this biblical narrative to life.
Introduction: The Chosen’s Cinematic Evolution
“The Chosen” has revolutionized the way we experience stories from the Bible, particularly Jesus’ life. With each season, the show has expanded its scope and ambition, and Season 4 is no exception. This latest installment promises to take viewers on an unprecedented visual journey, thanks in large part to its bold decision to relocate production.
“We’re not just making a show; we’re creating an experience that transports viewers back to first-century Judea.” – Dallas Jenkins, Director of The Chosen
Behind the Scenes: The Production’s Big Move
Farewell to Texas: A New Chapter Begins
For its first three seasons, “The Chosen” called the Lone Star State home. The show’s production was based at the Capernaum Studios in Weatherford, Texas, where its team crafted intricate sets that transported viewers to ancient times.
However, as the series grew in popularity and scope, it became clear that a change was necessary to fully realize the director’s vision for Season 4 and beyond.
Hello, Utah: A Land of Biblical Proportions
The decision to move production to Utah wasn’t made lightly. The state’s diverse landscapes offer a striking similarity to the terrain of ancient Israel, providing a more authentic backdrop for Jesus’ ministry.
This move also allowed for the construction of a permanent set, promising to elevate the production value to new heights.
Key Factors in Choosing Utah:
- Diverse landscapes mirroring biblical settings
- Opportunity for larger, more permanent sets
- Supportive film industry infrastructure
- Potential for year-round filming
Exploring Utah’s Cinematic Landscapes
Goshen: The New Heart of Biblical Jerusalem
At the core of The Chosen Season 4’s filming locations lies Goshen, Utah. This picturesque area, located about 70 miles south of Salt Lake City, has been transformed into the show’s version of ancient Jerusalem.
| Goshen, Utah Features | Biblical Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Rolling hills | Judean countryside |
| Arid climate | Mediterranean weather |
| Rock formations | Ancient city walls |
| Open plains | Gathering places |
The natural beauty of Goshen provides an unparalleled backdrop for the series. Its rugged terrain and expansive vistas allow viewers to feel as if they’re walking alongside Jesus and his disciples through the Holy Land.
Other Key Utah Locations
Salt Flats: A Canvas for Ancient Settings
Utah’s famous Bonneville Salt Flats serve as a versatile filming location for The Chosen Season 4. This vast, white expanse can be transformed to represent:
- The shores of the Sea of Galilee
- Desert scenes from Jesus’ 40-day fast
- Miraculous feeding of the 5,000
Mountain Ranges: The Galilean Hills Come to Life
The Wasatch and Oquirrh mountain ranges provide a stunning backdrop for scenes set in the Galilean countryside. These locations offer:
- Dramatic vistas for Jesus’ sermons
- Secluded areas for private conversations among disciples
- Challenging terrain for journey sequences
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The Chosen Experience: A Unique Filming Approach
Building a Permanent Set: The Jerusalem Sound Stage
One of the most exciting developments for The Chosen Season 4 is the construction of a permanent Jerusalem set. This ambitious project includes:
- A full-scale recreation of Jerusalem’s streets
- Authentic period housing and marketplaces
- A temple complex for crucial biblical scenes
Benefits of the Permanent Set:
- Increased production efficiency
- Greater control over filming conditions
- Enhanced authenticity in set details
- Opportunity for fan tours and experiences
Involving the Fans: The Chosen’s Innovative Crowdfunding Model
“The Chosen” has broken new ground with its crowdfunding approach, allowing fans to invest directly in the show’s production. This model has had a significant impact on the filming locations and overall scale of Season 4.
- Fan-Funded Expansion: The increased budget has allowed for more elaborate sets and diverse locations.
- Community Engagement: Supporters can visit the set, creating a unique connection between the audience and the production.
- Authenticity Drive: Fan involvement pushes the team to maintain high standards of historical accuracy in locations and set design.
Director’s Vision: Dallas Jenkins on Season 4 Locations
Dallas Jenkins, the visionary behind “The Chosen,” has been vocal about the importance of location in bringing the story of Jesus to life. In discussing Season 4’s filming locations, he emphasizes:
“Utah gives us the canvas we need to paint a vivid picture of Jesus’ world. The landscape here speaks to the soul in a way that perfectly aligns with our mission.”
Jenkins highlights several challenges and triumphs in adapting to the new filming environment:
Challenges:
- Acclimating the cast and crew to a new working environment
- Ensuring continuity with scenes from previous seasons
- Battling unpredictable weather conditions
Triumphs:
- Achieving a new level of visual authenticity
- Expanding the scale of crowd scenes and miracles
- Creating a more immersive experience for both actors and viewers
From Page to Screen: How Locations Bring the Script to Life
The Chosen Season 4’s locations play a crucial role in translating the script into a visual feast. Let’s explore how specific scenes are enhanced by their settings:
- The Sermon on the Mount
- Location: Mount Timpanogos
- Why it works: The natural amphitheater formation allows for realistic crowd placement and stunning visuals of Jesus addressing his followers.
- Feeding of the 5,000
- Location: Bonneville Salt Flats
- Why it works: The vast, open space provides the perfect backdrop for this miraculous scene, allowing for creative cinematography to capture the scale of the event.
- Jerusalem Market Scenes
- Location: Permanent Jerusalem set
- Why it works: The intricately designed set allows for dynamic camera movements and authentic background action, immersing viewers in the bustling life of ancient Jerusalem.
The Ripple Effect: Impact on Local Communities
The decision to film The Chosen Season 4 in Utah has had far-reaching effects beyond just the production itself.
Economic Boost for Utah’s Film Industry
- Creation of hundreds of local jobs
- Increased demand for film-related services and equipment
- Boost to local hospitality and tourism sectors
Tourism Potential: The Chosen’s Filming Locations as Pilgrimage Sites
As “The Chosen” continues to gain popularity, its filming locations are becoming attractions in their own right.
Potential Tourism Impacts:
- Guided tours of the Jerusalem set
- “The Chosen” themed events and conferences
- Increased interest in Utah’s natural landscapes
What’s Next: Future Filming Plans
While the focus is currently on The Chosen Season 4, the production team is already looking ahead. Here’s what we know about future plans:
- Continued Use of Utah: The permanent set and established locations will likely feature prominently in future seasons.
- Potential International Filming: There are hints of possible filming in Israel for key scenes in later seasons.
- Expanding the Universe: As the story progresses, new locations may be scouted to represent different parts of the ancient world.
Conclusion: The Chosen’s Legacy in Filming Locations
The Chosen Season 4’s filming locations represent more than just beautiful backdrops; they’re an integral part of the show’s storytelling. By choosing to film in Utah and invest in permanent sets, the production has:
- Elevated the visual quality of the series
- Created a more immersive experience for viewers
- Established a new standard for biblical dramas
- Fostered a unique connection between the show and its fans
As we anticipate the release of Season 4, it’s clear that the chosen filming locations will play a starring role in bringing Jesus’ story to life like never before.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When and where can I watch The Chosen Season 4?
A: The official release date for The Chosen Season 4 is yet to be announced. However, it’s expected to be available through The Chosen app and potentially other streaming platforms in late 2023 or early 2024.
Q: Can fans visit the filming locations?
A: Yes, there are plans to offer guided tours of the permanent Jerusalem set in Utah. Details will be announced on The Chosen’s official website and social media channels.
Q: How does the new location affect the show’s narrative?
A: The new Utah locations allow for a more expansive and visually authentic portrayal of Jesus’ ministry. This enhances the narrative by providing a more immersive backdrop for the stories being told.
Q: What makes Utah ideal for biblical settings?
A: Utah’s diverse landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and salt flats, closely resemble various terrains found in the Holy Land. This natural similarity, combined with the ability to build large-scale sets, makes it an ideal location for recreating biblical scenes.
By embracing the stunning landscapes of Utah and investing in permanent sets, The Chosen Season 4 promises to deliver a visual and emotional experience that will transport viewers back to the time of Jesus.
As we eagerly await its release, one thing is certain: the chosen filming locations will play a pivotal role in bringing this beloved series to new heights.
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.
