Today AMC released two production photos from its popular zombie-filled drama “The Walking Dead.” The show’s premiere was such a ratings hit that AMC renewed it for a second season almost immediately. The second season is currently in production in areas in and around Atlanta, Georgia.
Locals near the filming locations aren’t exactly thrilled by the zombie invasion, however. Roads have been closed and detours created so that highway scenes can be shot, though this has been done under the thinly veiled lie that the closures are due to roadwork, according to an article at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s website.
AMC’s press release reveals some of the excitement from the set:
Executive Producer/Writer/Director Frank Darabont says, “At this moment, I’m standing on a stretch of post-apocalypse interstate in Georgia, littered with abandoned cars and blessing my good luck to be reunited with our amazing cast, and our fantastic directors and crew. Across the board, there are none better. It’s great to be shooting again. I think we’ve embarked on a great season.”
Since I am a Georgian, part of the fun of watching each episode is trying to recognize local sites amidst the chaos and drama that takes place in each show. Longtime attendees of Dragon*con may have recognized the Westin Peachtree Plaza hotel, which is where some panels take place each year. Those more familiar with areas outside of Atlanta may have realized that the “CDC” destroyed in the season finale is actually the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. (The real CDC didn’t have the right “look,” according to cast members during a convention panel I attended this past winter.) Most interesting is how the film crew managed to create the appearance of desolation in the heart of a usually bustling and congested city.
“The Walking Dead” is based on the comic series by Robert Kirkman. The upcoming fall season will contain 13 episodes and will continue to follow the adventures of recently comatose Rick Grimes as he continues to make sense of a much-changed world. Nearly everyone he knew is dead, his wife is harboring a guilty secret, and it’s a kill or be killed world.
And if you haven’t already watched Season 1, it’s out on DVD now.
For additional information, visit www.amctv.com