Where Was the Movie “The Judge” Filmed?
“The Judge” is a 2014 American legal drama film directed by David Dobkin and starring Robert Downey Jr., Robert Duvall, and Vera Farmiga. The film follows a successful lawyer who returns to his hometown after his mother’s death, only to discover that his estranged father, a judge, is suspected of murder. “The Judge” garnered critical acclaim for its powerful performances and compelling storyline. In this article, we will explore the filming locations of this captivating movie and provide answers to some frequently asked questions.
Filming Locations:
“The Judge” takes place in the fictional town of Carlinville, Indiana. However, the movie was shot primarily in various locations in Massachusetts and Indiana. Let’s delve into some of the primary shooting spots.
1. Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts:
Shelburne Falls, a picturesque town in Franklin County, served as the backdrop for several scenes in “The Judge.” The village’s iconic Bridge of Flowers, a former trolley bridge adorned with vibrant flowers, can be seen in the film. The charming streets and scenic beauty of Shelburne Falls perfectly capture the small-town feel depicted in the movie.
2. Worcester, Massachusetts:
Worcester, the second-largest city in New England, was another prominent filming location. The Worcester County Courthouse, a stunning architectural gem, was used as the setting for many courtroom scenes. The grandeur and elegance of the courthouse added a touch of authenticity to the film’s legal proceedings.
3. Quincy, Massachusetts:
The Thomas Crane Public Library in Quincy was transformed into the Carlinville Public Library for the film. This beautiful library, with its classic architectural style, played a significant role in portraying the town’s community spirit.
4. Shelburne Falls Bowling Alley:
The Shelburne Falls Bowling Alley featured prominently in “The Judge.” This historic bowling alley, built in the 1900s, provided an authentic setting for the scenes involving the characters’ leisure activities.
5. Indiana:
While most of the film was shot in Massachusetts, some scenes were filmed in Indiana to capture the essence of the Midwest. The picturesque town of Zionsville, just outside of Indianapolis, served as the main location for Carlinville, Indiana. The quaint streets and charming houses of Zionsville added an authentic touch to the movie’s portrayal of a small-town atmosphere.
FAQs about the Filming Locations:
Q: Is Carlinville, Indiana, a real town?
A: No, Carlinville, Indiana, is a fictional town created for the movie. The actual filming took place in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, and Zionsville, Indiana.
Q: Can I visit the locations where “The Judge” was filmed?
A: Yes, many of the filming locations are open to the public. Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, offers the opportunity to explore the Bridge of Flowers and the Shelburne Falls Bowling Alley. Zionsville, Indiana, also welcomes visitors to experience its small-town charm.
Q: Were any other locations used for filming?
A: Apart from Massachusetts and Indiana, some scenes were also shot in cities like Boston and Dedham in Massachusetts.
Q: Are there any iconic landmarks featured in the film?
A: Yes, the Worcester County Courthouse in Massachusetts is a prominent landmark featured in the movie. Its imposing architecture adds authenticity to the courtroom scenes.
Q: Was there any specific reason for choosing Massachusetts and Indiana as filming locations?
A: Massachusetts offers a wide range of stunning landscapes and picturesque towns, making it an ideal choice for capturing the essence of a small Midwest town. Indiana, being the heartland of America, provided an authentic backdrop for certain scenes in the film.
In conclusion, “The Judge” was primarily filmed in Massachusetts and Indiana, with Shelburne Falls, Worcester, and Quincy in Massachusetts being the main locations. The mix of charming small-town settings and architectural landmarks created an immersive experience for viewers. If you’re a fan of the movie, exploring these filming locations will allow you to relive the magic of “The Judge” firsthand.