The original film The Color Purple was primarily filmed in North Carolina, specifically in Anson and Union counties.
Filming Locations for The Color Purple in North Carolina
The acclaimed 1985 film The Color Purple, directed by Steven Spielberg, is famously set in rural Georgia. However, much of its authentic period atmosphere was captured through filming on location in North Carolina. The production team carefully selected sites within the state that could convincingly portray the early 20th-century Southern United States.
Key North Carolina Counties Used for Filming
The principal filming for The Color Purple took place across two distinct counties in North Carolina, providing the diverse backdrops needed for the narrative:
- Anson County: This county offered various settings that matched the film's requirement for a rural, historical environment. Its landscapes and existing structures contributed significantly to the movie's visual authenticity.
- Union County: Similar to Anson County, Union County provided additional locations that helped bring the film's Georgian setting to life, utilizing its natural scenery and period-appropriate areas.
These locations were instrumental in creating the cinematic world of Celie and her journey, allowing the filmmakers to craft a visually compelling narrative despite the story being set in a different state.
Local Involvement in the Production
The filming process also created memorable experiences for local residents. For example, a North Carolina man named Don Scarborough has shared his positive recollections of being an extra in The Color Purple. This highlights the direct interaction and impact the production had on the communities where it was filmed.
