Exploring the Filming Locations- Where the Thriller ‘Top of the Lake’ Captured Its Chilling Atmosphere
Where was the movie “Top of the Lake” filmed? This critically acclaimed series, created by Jane Campion and Gerard Lee, has captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and stunning visuals. The answer to this question lies in the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand, a country known for its breathtaking scenery and serene beauty. In this article, we will explore the various locations where “Top of the Lake” was filmed, highlighting the unique settings that contributed to the show’s success.
The first season of “Top of the Lake” was primarily filmed in the picturesque regions of New Zealand. The series is set in the fictional town of Laketown, which is based on the real-life town of Queenstown. Queenstown, located in the South Island, is renowned for its stunning alpine backdrop and crystal-clear lakes. The serene beauty of Queenstown provided the perfect setting for the mysterious and gripping storylines that unfolded in the series.
One of the most iconic locations in “Top of the Lake” is the Lake Wakatipu, which served as the backdrop for the fictional Lake Hutt. The lake’s stunning blue waters and dramatic mountain ranges added a sense of awe and wonder to the show. Filming took place along the lake’s shoreline, capturing the natural beauty that made Queenstown a popular destination for tourists and filmmakers alike.
Another significant location in the series is the Arrowtown, a historic gold mining town located just a short distance from Queenstown. Arrowtown’s charming cobblestone streets and preserved Victorian architecture provided the perfect setting for the series’ fictional town of Laketown. The town’s unique ambiance and rich history added depth to the story, as characters navigated through the complexities of life in a small, close-knit community.
The series also made use of the nearby Mount Aspiring National Park, which is one of New Zealand’s most stunning national parks. The park’s diverse landscapes, ranging from lush rainforests to rugged mountain peaks, provided a variety of filming locations that added to the show’s visual appeal. Mount Aspiring’s dramatic scenery played a crucial role in the series, serving as a backdrop for several key scenes and contributing to the overall sense of isolation and mystery.
In addition to the natural beauty of New Zealand, the series also made use of purpose-built sets. One of the most notable sets is the fictional Laketown police station, which was constructed specifically for the show. The station’s design and layout were inspired by the real-life Queenstown police station, and it served as the central hub for the series’ investigations.
In conclusion, “Top of the Lake” was filmed in several stunning locations across New Zealand, including Queenstown, Arrowtown, and Mount Aspiring National Park. The natural beauty and rich history of these regions contributed to the show’s success, providing a captivating backdrop for the gripping storylines and memorable characters. As a result, “Top of the Lake” has become a shining example of how the right setting can enhance the viewing experience and leave a lasting impression on audiences around the world.
