The Filming Locations of Hidden Figures: Tracing the Steps of NASA’s Pioneering Women

Every movie, regardless of the genre, has a unique story behind its creation, including the intricate journey of filming locations. This article delves into the intriguing locations where the 2016 film Hidden Figures was filmed. From the bustling city of Atlanta to historic universities and iconic landmarks, discover the places that brought to life the story of NASA’s pioneering African American women mathematicians during the Space Race.

Hidden Filming Locations in Atlanta

The film predominantly takes place in Atlanta, Georgia, which provided a perfect backdrop for this historical drama. Hidden Figures utilized the diverse and culturally rich landscape of Atlanta to enhance the narrative. The city's mix of modern skyscrapers, historical sites, and residential neighborhoods came together to create an authentic setting for the film's events.

Canton

Canton is one of the numerous Atlanta suburbs chosen for the film's backdrop. While specific scenes were set in Canton, the area primarily serves to introduce the city's geographical context, particularly its sprawling nature that contrasts with the more urban scenes filmed elsewhere.

Columbus

Another significant Atlanta suburb, Columbus, played a minor role in the film. However, it contributed to the film's portrayal of the suburban life that Bette Young, played by Taraji P. Henson, experienced.

East Point

The quaint suburb of East Point is featured in several scenes. This location was chosen for its residential feel, mirroring the neighborhood where the characters' daily lives transpired. The area's authenticity helps in depicting the characters' home life accurately.

Emory University

Emory University, a prestigious educational institution, provided the academic setting for the film. The university's historic buildings and modern classrooms served as the backdrop for scenes where the mathematicians worked. Emory University's campus is substantial and diverse enough to provide multiple settings from offices to lecture halls, making it a perfect fit for the film's needs.

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics

The film's most iconic scenes were filmed at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Marietta, Georgia. This aerospace and defense company serves as a symbol of the cutting-edge technology and engineering prowess of the time. Scenes at this facility showcase the challenges the characters faced in a male-dominated industry, while also highlighting the contributions of the mathematicians to space exploration.

Marietta, Morehouse College, and Norcross

The cities of Marietta, Morehouse College, and Norcross offer additional filming locations critical to the film's narrative. Marietta, Morehouse College, and Norcross provided sets for key sequences, sometimes offering a stark contrast to the bustling urban settings in Atlanta, emphasizing the broader social and racial context of the film's story.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look: Filming in Atlanta

The production team behind Hidden Figures relied heavily on Atlanta's diverse locations to create an accurate and compelling visual narrative. While the film's primary locations were in Atlanta, the crew utilized the city's wide range of settings to add depth and realism to the story. From the suburban homes where the characters lived to the corporate and academic landscapes they worked in, Atlanta served as the perfect backdrop for this historical drama.

Why Atlanta?

Atlanta was chosen as the filming location for its historical significance and its bustling urban environment that closely parallels the 1960s era depicted in the film. The city's rich history and diverse neighborhoods provided a perfect setting for a film that needed to authentically capture the atmosphere of the time.

Takeaways: The Impact of Location on Filmmaking

The choice of filming locations in Hidden Figures played a crucial role in the film's success. Not only did it add to the authenticity of the story but it also helped in creating a vivid and engaging visual experience for audiences. The diverse settings, ranging from urban centers to suburban neighborhoods, provided a complete picture of the characters' lives and challenges.

Conclusion: Capturing the Essence of Hidden Figures

The film Hidden Figures was not just about telling a story; it was about capturing the essence of a time and place. The strategic choice of filming locations in Atlanta and its suburbs played a crucial role in bringing the story to life. From the academic institutions to the aerospace facilities, each location contributed to the film's overall narrative, ensuring a rich and compelling visual experience for viewers.

Further Resources

To delve deeper into the filming locations and the historical context of Hidden Figures, consider exploring the following resources:

Google Search Results for Filming Locations IMDb Trivia and Filming Locations Official Hidden Figures Movie Website

Understanding the importance of filming locations in storytelling, especially in historical dramas like Hidden Figures, can provide valuable insights for both filmmakers and enthusiasts.