Netflix series East of Eden filmed in New Zealand instead of California
The Netflix adaptation of John Steinbeck's novel East of Eden was filmed on the South Island of New Zealand rather than in Northern California.
Original setting lost to development
John Steinbeck described the Salinas Valley and its mountains as the story's opening scene. That specific patch of early 20th century Northern California has since been lost to human development. The expansive landscapes described in the book cannot be recreated on a set.
Production designer cites terrain match
Grant Major, the production designer for the series, noted that New Zealand possesses mountains and snow. He also pointed out the presence of lakes and rivers in the location. These features make it an easy stand-in for a bygone American West.
Previous films used same region
The South Island is not a novel filming location these days. Recent productions like Heart of the Beast have been shot there. Jane Campion has also filmed many movies in this area.
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