Where Was Godless Filmed

Jordan Emanuel

2 min read

·

02-01-2025

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Netflix's acclaimed Western miniseries, Godless, captivated audiences with its stunning visuals and atmospheric storytelling. But where exactly was this gritty, beautiful landscape brought to life? The answer is multifaceted, relying on a blend of real-world locations carefully chosen to evoke the Wild West.

New Mexico's Diverse Landscapes

The majority of Godless was filmed in New Mexico, leveraging the state's incredible diversity of terrain. This wasn't just a matter of finding one suitable location; the production team strategically selected multiple locations to create the show's distinct visual tapestry.

The Ghost Town of La Belle

The fictional town of La Belle, the central setting of the story, wasn't built from scratch. Instead, the production team utilized existing locations and added sets to create the look and feel of a deserted, yet resilient, mining town. Much of La Belle's exterior shots were filmed in the Bonanza Creek Ranch, a well-known filming location near Santa Fe, known for its history in numerous Western films. Other scenes were shot in Santa Fe itself, cleverly utilizing the city's unique architecture to contribute to the overall aesthetic.

The Expansive Landscapes of the New Mexico Territory

The sweeping shots of the desolate, breathtaking landscape outside La Belle weren't confined to a single location. The production team extensively used various locations across New Mexico, capitalizing on the state's vast and varied topography. These locations included areas exhibiting dramatic mesas, canyons, and open plains, all expertly filmed to convey the vastness and harsh beauty of the American West.

Beyond New Mexico: A Touch of Authenticity

While New Mexico provided the primary backdrop for Godless, the production might have used other locations to achieve specific visual requirements, though this information is not publicly available. The careful selection and blending of these varied locations contributed significantly to the show's immersive and realistic portrayal of the Wild West.

Conclusion: A Masterclass in Location Scouting

Godless's success is partly attributable to its skillful use of location scouting. By thoughtfully utilizing the natural beauty and historical locations of New Mexico, the production team created a world both believable and visually captivating. The show serves as a testament to the power of location in shaping the audience's experience and immersing them in the story's narrative.