Crafting the Adventure: Filming Locations and Set Design
“Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain,” a comedy film on Peacock, takes viewers on an adventurous journey with three friends – Ben, Martin, and John. The trio, played by Martin Herlihy, John Higgins, and Ben Marshall, embark on a quest for hidden treasure that leads them to self-discovery. Let’s delve into the making of this film, exploring its filming locations and the production team’s efforts to bring this story to life.
The Charm of Charlotte, North Carolina
A City as a Starting Point
Charlotte, North Carolina, served as the primary filming location for “Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain.” The city’s diverse settings, including shop fronts, bars, and a church, provided the perfect backdrop for the beginning of the trio’s journey. The production team’s choice of Charlotte was instrumental in setting the tone for the film’s narrative.
Exploring the Fictional Foggy Mountain
Diverse State Parks as Backdrops
To create the fictitious Foggy Mountain, the film utilized various shooting locations, including:
- South Mountains State Park: Offering scenic hiking and biking trails, this park was a key filming site.
- Crowders Mountain State Park: Located in Gaston County, this park added to the film’s adventurous ambiance.
- Mount Mitchell State Park: Situated in Yancey County, it further enhanced the film’s natural settings.
Capturing Charlotte’s Local Flavor
Iconic Businesses on the Big Screen
Several local businesses in Charlotte were featured in the film, including:
- Boudreaux’s Louisiana Kitchen: This spot was recognizable in an early scene featuring the main characters.
- Billy Jack’s Shack: A celebrated landmark in Charlotte, it was showcased in the film.
- The Evening Muse: Known for its diverse cultural offerings, it also appeared in the movie.
Despite some creative liberties taken with the geography, these locations grounded the film in a real, relatable world.
Filming in East Charlotte
Recognizable Spots for Key Scenes
The film also utilized several locations in East Charlotte:
- Segen Food Market: This site was transformed for a pivotal scene in the movie.
- Crunch Fitness University: Featured in the exterior shots of Trout Plus.
- New Hope Missionary Baptist Church: Doubled as a movie church, with exterior shots from St Martin De Tours Catholic Church in Louisiana.
The Cult Scene at Bost Grill Mill
A Custom-Built Set for Climactic Moments
Bost Grill Mill in Concord, North Carolina, was the location for the film’s cult scenes. An elaborate set was constructed here, taking ten weeks to complete, adding to the film’s authenticity and visual appeal.
The Creative Minds Behind the Film
Direction and Production
Paul Briganti directed “Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain.” Known for his work on “Saturday Night Live,” Briganti brought his expertise to this comedy film. Judd Apatow and Jimmy Miller, with Apatow Productions, produced the film, adding to its comedic pedigree.
A Film Crafted with Care and Creativity
“Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain” is not just a comedy film; it’s a creative endeavor that showcases the talents of its cast and crew. From carefully chosen filming locations to a dedicated production team, the film is a testament to the collaborative spirit of filmmaking. With its mix of humor, adventure, and heart, it stands as a noteworthy addition to the world of comedy cinema.
