FILM LOCATIONS: ERIC ON NETFLIX
Eric is the latest binge-worthy psychological drama starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Gaby Hoffman on Netflix. The story centres around the disappearance of a young boy, Edgar (Ivan Howe) in New York city, and the investigation which follows. The series, set in the 1980s, takes place both above ground and in subterranean New York, where a large community of ‘mole people’ live before being ‘swept out’ by the local authorities. Vincent (Benedict Cumberbatch), one of New York’s leading puppeteers and the creator of a popular children’s television show, struggles to cope after his son, Edgar, goes missing. The father becomes fixated on his son’s drawings of a blue monster puppet named Eric, convinced that featuring Eric on the show will bring him home.
Where Was Eric Filmed?
Although the series is set in New York City, was it actually filmed there?
Yes! The show was filmed in both Budapest and New York. Many of the exterior shots were filmed in New York City, while the interiors were shot in the Hungarian capital.
Series director Lucy Forbes explained to Radio Times, "There was never going to be an option to shoot the whole thing in New York because it's so expensive. So, it was about choosing the right place to go, and Budapest has lots of very good studio space that is cost-effective and has an amazing crew."
Forbes continued, "We built loads of interior sets in Budapest. Vincent and Cassie's apartment, Good Day Sunshine... Then everything exterior-wise is pretty much 80 percent New York."
Regarding the scenes of the unhoused people living underground, the tunnels depicted in Eric are based on real-life locations in New York but were filmed in Hungary.
BudaPest the new home of filming?
Budapest has rapidly emerged as a prime destination for big production companies and broadcasters looking for an ideal filming location. Several factors contribute to the Hungarian capital’s growing popularity in the film industry.
Cost-Effectiveness
One of the primary reasons Budapest has become a favoured choice is its cost-effectiveness. Compared to traditional film hubs like New York and Los Angeles, Budapest offers significantly lower production costs. This financial advantage is particularly attractive for large-scale projects that require extensive resources and complex sets.
Versatile Locations and Architecture
Budapest is renowned for its diverse and stunning architecture, which can double for various global locations. Its mix of historical and modern buildings provides filmmakers with a wide range of settings, from ancient European streets to contemporary urban landscapes. This versatility allows production companies to shoot scenes set in different parts of the world without leaving the city.
State-of-the-Art Studio Facilities
The city boasts top-notch studio facilities equipped with the latest technology. These studios provide the necessary infrastructure for high-quality film and television production, making it easier for filmmakers to bring their creative visions to life. The availability of advanced soundstages, post-production services, and experienced local crews further enhances Budapest's appeal.
Generous Tax Incentives
Hungary offers attractive tax incentives for filmmakers, including rebates and subsidies that can significantly reduce production costs. These financial benefits are a major draw for international production companies looking to maximize their budgets while maintaining high production values.
Skilled Workforce
Budapest is home to a pool of highly skilled and experienced film professionals. From directors and producers to technicians and set designers, the local workforce is well-versed in international standards and practices. This expertise ensures smooth and efficient production processes, making Budapest a reliable choice for big projects.
Recent Productions
Several high-profile productions have chosen Budapest as their filming location, solidifying its reputation as a film-friendly city. A recent example including Eric.
As the global film industry continues to seek new and cost-effective locations, Budapest stands out as a top contender. Its combination of affordability, versatile settings, advanced facilities, attractive incentives, and skilled professionals makes it an ideal choice for big production companies and broadcasters looking to create compelling content.
At Silverstein Locations, we love all things film and filming locations. Our diverse portfolio of homes and spaces across London, the UK and internationally are designed to cater to big budget productions or smaller projects. If you are looking for locations for your next televesion series, then please reach out!
Eric is streaming on Netflix now.
