The critically acclaimed movie “American Fiction,” nominated for Golden Globes and winner of the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay, has captivated audiences with its sharp satire and poignant exploration of identity. But beyond its compelling narrative, the film has also sparked curiosity about its production locations. So, where was “American Fiction” filmed? The answer lies in the historic and picturesque state of Massachusetts.
“American Fiction” brought its production to Massachusetts, utilizing the diverse landscapes of Boston, the Greater Boston Area, and the scenic South Shore. Director Cord Jefferson selected this region for specific reasons that resonate with the film’s themes and characters.
Filming Locations Across Massachusetts
The movie strategically utilized various locations within Massachusetts to bring its story to life. Principal photography took place in:
- Boston: As a hub of intellectual and academic life, Boston served as a key backdrop for portraying the world of Monk Ellison, the protagonist author and professor. The city’s urban environment and academic institutions provided a fitting setting for his professional life.
- Greater Boston Area: Extending beyond the city limits, the Greater Boston Area offered a range of settings that contributed to the film’s narrative. Specific towns and locales within this area provided diverse backdrops for various scenes.
- South Shore: The coastal region south of Boston, known as the South Shore, added another layer to the film’s visual tapestry. The area’s scenic beauty and distinct character likely played a role in depicting certain aspects of Monk’s life and experiences.
- Martha’s Vineyard (Oak Bluffs): Crucially, Martha’s Vineyard, specifically the historic town of Oak Bluffs, was highlighted as a significant location. Oak Bluffs, with its rich history and association with upper-middle-class Black families, provided a particularly relevant setting for portraying the Ellison family’s background and social context.
Alt text: Historic brick buildings in Boston, Massachusetts, representing the urban setting for filming ‘American Fiction’.
Why Massachusetts? Director Cord Jefferson’s Location Choice
Cord Jefferson, in interviews, explained the rationale behind choosing Massachusetts as the primary filming location. His reasons were deeply intertwined with the narrative and themes of “American Fiction”:
- Intellectual and Academic Hub: Jefferson emphasized the need for a location that could convincingly portray a setting where an intellectual like Monk Ellison would thrive. Boston, with its numerous universities and literary scene, naturally fit this requirement. The city’s atmosphere lends credibility to Monk’s profession as a respected author and professor.
- Representation of an Upper Middle Class Black Family: The director specifically sought a location that could represent a multi-generational upper-middle-class Black family. Massachusetts, with its historical enclaves like Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard, offered the perfect backdrop. Oak Bluffs, in particular, has a long and significant history as a vacation and residential destination for affluent African American families.
- Martha’s Vineyard’s Unique History: The history of Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard was a key draw. This location provided a visually and culturally rich setting to depict the Ellison family’s established background and social standing. The area’s unique character added depth and authenticity to the portrayal of their lives.
Alt text: Picturesque coastline of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, highlighting the island’s scenic beauty and historical significance as a filming location for ‘American Fiction’.
“American Fiction”: A Story Rooted in Relevant Locations
“American Fiction” is more than just a comedy; it’s a film that delves into complex societal issues with wit and nuance. The choice of Massachusetts as its filming location was not arbitrary. It was a deliberate decision to ground the story in a setting that resonated with the film’s themes of intellect, identity, and the Black experience within a specific socio-economic context.
By filming in Massachusetts, “American Fiction” utilized the state’s unique blend of urban sophistication, historical richness, and natural beauty to enhance its storytelling. The locations became integral to portraying the world of Monk Ellison and the nuanced narrative that has resonated with audiences and critics alike. The film’s success, culminating in Oscar recognition, further spotlights the impactful choice of Massachusetts as its filming backdrop.
Alt text: Behind-the-scenes image from ‘American Fiction’ filming, showing actors and crew on location in a Massachusetts urban environment.
For those interested in experiencing the world of “American Fiction,” exploring the Massachusetts locations where the movie was filmed offers an additional layer of appreciation for this Golden Globe-nominated and Oscar-winning film.
