Introduction
The critically acclaimed show “Better Call Saul” has become a fan favorite since its debut in 2015. Developed as a prequel to the hit show “Breaking Bad”, the show follows the story of Jimmy McGill (Bob Odenkirk) as he goes from being a small-time lawyer to becoming the criminal lawyer Saul Goodman. The show has been praised for its writing, acting, and direction, and has received numerous awards and nominations.
Understanding when and where the show was filmed is important for appreciating the craftsmanship that went into creating this beloved show. From the locations used to the cast and crew involved, this article will explore the behind-the-scenes aspects of “Better Call Saul” and provide an inside look at the production process.
Behind the Scenes of ‘Better Call Saul’: Examining the Filming Locations
The majority of the show was filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the same location as “Breaking Bad”. The showrunners chose this location for its unique landscape and variety of filming locations. Some of the notable locations used include the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the KiMo Theatre, and the Fuddruckers restaurant. Other scenes were filmed in locations outside of Albuquerque, such as Santa Fe and Las Cruces.
In addition to New Mexico, some scenes were also filmed in Los Angeles, California. This includes the scenes involving the character Kim Wexler (Rhea Seehorn), which were filmed on the Universal Studios backlot. Other scenes were filmed at various locations throughout the city, such as the Hollywood Forever Cemetery and the Union Station.
The show also made use of other filming locations, including Canada, Mexico, and Europe. These locations were used to film scenes set in places like Chicago and Montreal. The showrunners also used CGI to create virtual sets, such as the courtroom scenes in Season 2.
A Look at the Cast and Crew of ‘Better Call Saul’
The show features an impressive ensemble cast, including Bob Odenkirk as Jimmy McGill/Saul Goodman, Jonathan Banks as Mike Ehrmantraut, Rhea Seehorn as Kim Wexler, Patrick Fabian as Howard Hamlin, Michael Mando as Nacho Varga, Giancarlo Esposito as Gus Fring, and many more. Each actor brings their own unique style and energy to the show, and together they create a compelling and memorable viewing experience.
The show also boasts an impressive list of directors, writers, and producers. Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould are the showrunners, and have written and directed multiple episodes of the show. Other notable directors include Thomas Schnauz, Adam Bernstein, and Michelle MacLaren. Writers include Gennifer Hutchison, Gordon Smith, and Alison Tatlock. Producers include Melissa Bernstein, Mark Johnson, and Diane Mercer.
Exploring the Visual Effects in ‘Better Call Saul’
The show also makes extensive use of visual effects to create powerful and realistic scenes. Special effects techniques used include green screen compositing, CG animation, matte painting, and motion capture. Examples of visual effects in the show include the desert scenes in Season 1, the waterfalls in Season 2, and the car chase scenes in Season 3.
‘Better Call Saul’: How the Show Was Filmed
Filming for “Better Call Saul” began in June 2014 and lasted until April 2018. The show was shot on 35mm film, with most scenes being shot in single takes. The production process for each episode took about seven days, with a two-day prep period and five days of shooting. Pre-production included scouting locations, casting actors, and creating storyboards. During filming, multiple cameras were used to capture different angles of the scene.
An Inside Look at the Filming of ‘Better Call Saul’
The cast and crew of “Better Call Saul” have shared some interesting stories about the filming of the show. One of the biggest challenges faced during filming was the heat, particularly during outdoor scenes. The showrunners had to come up with creative ways to keep the actors cool, such as having ice cubes in their pockets and fans on the set. Another challenge was the language barrier between the American crew and the Mexican extras.
The cast and crew also shared some fun behind-the-scenes secrets. For example, Bob Odenkirk would often break out into song or dance during filming. The showrunners also made sure to give the crew plenty of snacks to keep them going. And of course, there was the “Breaking Bad” reunion at the end of Season 4, which was a special moment for everyone involved.
Conclusion
The filming of “Better Call Saul” was a complex process that involved a lot of hard work and dedication from the cast and crew. From the locations used to the special effects employed, every aspect of the show was carefully crafted to create a unique viewing experience. By understanding when and where the show was filmed, viewers can better appreciate the artistry that went into creating this beloved show.
For those looking to gain a deeper appreciation for “Better Call Saul”, we recommend watching the show with an eye for detail. Pay attention to the locations used and the visual effects employed. Also, take note of the cast and crew involved, as each person played a key role in bringing this show to life.
(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)