Decoding the Post-Apocalyptic Landscape: Where Was The Last of Us Episode 4 Filmed?
Episode 4 of HBO’s “The Last of Us,” titled “Please Hold to My Hand,” takes viewers deeper into the fraught journey of Joel and Ellie. While the narrative unfolds across a ravaged United States, the actual filming locations for this gripping episode, like much of the first season, were situated in the stunning landscapes of Alberta, Canada. This installment makes particularly notable use of Calgary and its surrounding areas, offering a blend of practical sets and recognizable Alberta landmarks that contribute to the show’s immersive post-apocalyptic atmosphere. Specifically, keep an eye out for fleeting glimpses of Calaway Park, west of Calgary, and the majestic High Level Bridge in Lethbridge.
Unveiling the Alberta Backdrops
The Fictional Kansas City Connection
One of the most intriguing aspects of “The Last of Us” is its ability to transform real-world locations into believable representations of its fictional setting. Episode 4 is no exception. While the episode is intended to depict the characters’ arrival near Kansas City, very little was filmed there. Calgary became the canvas upon which the ravaged remnants of Kansas City were painted. Key scenes, including the intense ambush sequence where Joel and Ellie crash their vehicle, were filmed in a section of downtown Calgary. The set design masterfully disguised the Albertan cityscape to create the impression of an urban battlefield.
Strathmore’s Fictional Rest Stop
A pivotal scene in Episode 4 occurs at an abandoned Shell Station, where Joel and Ellie encounter other survivors. This isn’t a relic of some bygone era, but a purpose-built set created by the production team. Located approximately ten miles south of Strathmore, Alberta, this location adds a sense of desolation and vulnerability to the episode.
The High Level Bridge: A Glimpse of Lethbridge
Eagle-eyed viewers may recognize a distinct landmark in Episode 4: the Lethbridge Viaduct, more commonly known as the High Level Bridge. This impressive structure is briefly visible as Joel and Ellie navigate the Crowsnest Highway. The High Level Bridge, a historical railway bridge and national historic site, offers a moment of awe amidst the series’ grim atmosphere.
Calaway Park Roller Coaster: A Flashback to Normalcy
A brief shot during Joel and Ellie’s journey showcases the Calaway Park roller coaster west of Calgary. It provides a stark contrast with the perilous reality they are facing. This fleeting glimpse of a familiar location underscores the loss of normalcy in the post-apocalyptic world.
The Broader Filming Context of “The Last of Us”
“The Last of Us” made extensive use of Alberta as its primary filming location for Season 1. The province provided diverse landscapes and urban environments that mirrored the varied settings of the game. Edmonton, Canmore, and Fort Macleod also served as key filming locations. The series, acclaimed for its authentic recreation of the source material, is a testament to the capabilities of the Alberta film industry.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into The Last of Us Filming Locations
1. Why was “The Last of Us” filmed in Alberta, Canada?
Alberta offered a wide array of landscapes, from urban centers to mountain ranges, that closely resembled the settings in “The Last of Us” video game. Additionally, Alberta’s film industry and infrastructure, along with tax incentives, made it an attractive filming location.
2. Was any of “The Last of Us” filmed in the actual cities depicted in the show, like Boston or Kansas City?
While the show’s narrative takes place across the United States, filming primarily occurred in Alberta, Canada. Calgary was used as a stand-in for Kansas City, while locations near Boston were captured near Calgary and Edmonton. Digital enhancements were likely used.
3. What other notable locations in Calgary were used for filming “The Last of Us”?
Besides downtown Calgary, SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) and Mount Royal University also served as filming locations.
4. Where was the Jackson settlement from “The Last of Us” filmed?
Jackson City, a key location in the series, was filmed in Canmore, Alberta, in the Canadian Rockies.
5. Was the abandoned mall featured in “The Last of Us” a real place?
Yes, the abandoned mall scenes were filmed in Calgary’s Northland Village Mall, which was undergoing redevelopment at the time. The production team transformed the gutted mall to create the desolate atmosphere seen in the series.
6. How did the Covid-19 pandemic affect filming of “The Last of Us”?
Filming took place during the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in reduced crew sizes and adherence to strict health and safety protocols.
7. Where was the “River of Death” scene filmed?
The intense “River of Death” scene was filmed on the Engine Bridge over the Bow River in Canmore, Alberta.
8. What amusement park is in episode 4 of The Last of Us?
The amusement park you can see in episode 4 of The Last of Us is Calaway Park, just west of Calgary.
9. Where was Episode 3 of The Last of Us filmed?
Bill’s bucolic hamlet in Episode 3 was shot in the High River neighbourhood of Beachwood.
10. What’s the name of the bridge that Joel and Ellie cross in Lethbridge in Episode 4?
The bridge they cross is the Lethbridge Viaduct also known as the High Level Bridge.
11. How many filming locations were used in Alberta for season 1 of The Last of Us?
The Last Of Us was filmed in Alberta, Canada between July 2021 and June 2022, across a whopping 180 filming locations.
12. Was the series filmed in Salt Lake City?
No, “The Last of Us” was never actually shot in Salt Lake City. Most of the show was filmed in Alberta, Canada. Digital additions were used so that viewers believe the characters were walking around Utah.
13. Did they film Last of Us in Austin?
Fort Macleod stood in for Austin during a climactic car escape scene.
14. Where will The Last of Us season 2 be filmed?
Production for the second season of the post-apocalyptic series is moving west. Season 2 will be filmed in Vancouver after filming took place in Alberta for season 1.
15. Where did they film the giraffe scene in The Last of Us?
While some of the giraffe scene uses CGI, much of it was shot with real-life animals. The production team painstakingly built a set in Calgary Zoo’s giraffe enclosure.
The Power of Place in Storytelling
The choice of Alberta as the primary filming location for “The Last of Us” wasn’t arbitrary. It exemplifies the importance of place in storytelling. The authenticity of the landscapes, the versatility of the urban environments, and the dedication of the Alberta film industry contributed to the show’s immersive quality and critical acclaim. As the fictional story continues to engage audiences, consider how geographic locations can profoundly enhance narrative impact and character development.
Further enriching your understanding of the intersection between video games and education, consider exploring the resources available at the Games Learning Society.
Looking Ahead: Season 2 and Beyond
As “The Last of Us” ventures into its second season, the production will shift to Vancouver, British Columbia. While the specific locations for future episodes remain to be seen, one thing is clear: the commitment to finding compelling and authentic filming locations will remain a key aspect of the show’s success. The legacy of Alberta’s contribution to the first season, however, will undoubtedly be a lasting one.
This exploration of the filming locations for “The Last of Us” Episode 4 highlights how meticulous attention to detail and the strategic use of real-world environments can elevate a story, transporting viewers to a world that feels both familiar and disturbingly altered. The use of Alberta’s landscapes has made the show successful. The show highlights the value of location scouting.