No, the popular NBC sitcom Superstore was not primarily filmed in a Walmart. While the production of the pilot episode did take place in an actual retail store, the vast majority of the series was brought to life on a specially constructed set.
Filming Locations for Superstore
The beloved comedy, which ran for six seasons, meticulously recreated the bustling environment of a big-box store. Here's a breakdown of where Superstore was filmed:
- Pilot Episode: The very first episode was shot inside an actual store. This helped establish the authentic look and feel for the series.
- Subsequent Seasons: Following the pilot, a dedicated three-story set was constructed at Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles, California. This elaborate set allowed for consistent filming and provided a controlled environment that replicated a large retail space.
The decision to move to a studio set after the pilot is common in television production, offering greater control over lighting, sound, and overall production design.
Key Aspects of the Cloud 9 Set
The custom-built set was designed to mimic every detail of a real superstore, from the aisles stocked with fictional products to the backroom and employee break areas. This ensured a consistent and believable setting for the show's many comedic scenarios.
- Authentic Replication: The set meticulously replicated the various departments found in a large retail chain, including electronics, apparel, groceries, and seasonal sections.
- Multi-Level Design: A three-story design allowed for varied camera angles and dynamic shots, giving the illusion of a massive, sprawling store.
- Controlled Environment: Filming on a studio lot provided the production team with complete control over elements like lighting, sound, and crowd management, which would be challenging in a live retail environment.
This table summarizes the primary filming locations:
| Filming Phase | Location Type | Specifics |
|---|---|---|
| Pilot | Actual Store | Initial production to capture authentic retail feel. |
| Series | Studio Set | Three-story custom-built set at Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles, California. |
By using a purpose-built set, Superstore was able to create its unique blend of workplace comedy and social commentary within a highly convincing, yet entirely fictional, retail world.
