Filming Locations of The Last of Us
The crumbling world of The Last of Us resembles modern-day America only in traces. The series, based on the popular dystopian video game, imagines remnant versions of major cities like Boston, Kansas City, and Jackson, Wyoming. To bring the game’s story to the screen, production designer John Paino utilized a whopping 180 locations, primarily in Alberta, Canada.
Over nine episodes, Joel (Pedro Pascal) escorts Ellie (Bella Ramsey) across dangerous stretches of the United States, encountering rogue gangs, cannibals, and the zombie-like infected along the way. While the majority of the interior sets were built on sound stages in Calgary, the exteriors were shot on location in places like High River, Canmore, Waterton Lakes National Park, and Mount Royal University.
Key Filming Locations
Calgary and Surroundings
Most of the series takes place in the middle of America, so we sought locations that could effectively fill in. For example, a sliver of downtown Calgary served as Kansas City. The ambush scene where the characters crash into the laundromat was really filmed in Calgary.
Bill’s House and Beechwood Estates
Bill’s house was constructed from scratch in Beechwood Estates, located in High River. The area had recently experienced a flood, leading to the demolition of several houses. Calgary’s abundance of pine trees helped recreate the New England aesthetic essential for the house’s design.
Custom Builds
The cul-de-sac where Joel and Ellie confront Kathleen and a mass of infected was fully built; it was challenging to find authentically run-down areas of Canada that met the artistic requirements of the show.
Finding the Perfect Tunnels
The tunnels that Joel and Ellie navigate to escape Kansas City were scouted under a now-closed brewery in Calgary. Modifications were made to extend the tunnels, creating an eerie feel appropriate for the storyline.
Natural Landscapes
Waterton Lakes National Park
Scenes showcasing the wilderness were shot predominantly in Waterton Lakes National Park. The breathtaking natural beauty of Alberta closely mirrors the American Rockies, making it an ideal stand-in for the show’s expansive landscapes.
Other Unique Locations
Many interior sets, such as those depicting the town of Silver Lake, Colorado, were built on location in additional areas, with some being specially constructed for particular scenes to enhance the ominous atmosphere.
Conclusion
The filming locations for The Last of Us not only contributed to the show’s visual storytelling but also emphasized the contrast between its haunting narrative and the stunning Canadian backdrop. This effective use of location proves that Alberta can authentically stand in for various settings in the United States.
