Where Was Netflix’s “Below” Filmed? See the Thriller’s Real-Life Picturesque Locations

The Netflix miniseries “Below,” which premiered on 8 October 2023, is set against the stunning backdrop of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. The series, steeped in a mix of folklore and sci-fi elements, tells the gripping story of a small town named Snooks Arm, where residents are haunted by a gigantic creature lurking in the waters. Leading the cast is Josh Hartnett, who plays Calvin Penney, a fisherman determined to protect his loved ones, including his son Wade, portrayed by Charlie Heaton.

Most of the filming took place in Brigus South, a small fishing community on the Avalon Peninsula with a population of under 100. This tight-knit community was transformed into the fictional town of Snooks Arm, with set designers making various changes to integrate aspects of local culture into the series. Longtime resident Lillian Carey recounted to CBC News that the production team made significant alterations to enhance the town’s aesthetic, such as erecting a new church that emulates an older version of its predecessor and redesigning a home to resemble a traditional fishing shed.

The atmosphere of cordiality and trust in the region was noted by Heaton, who expressed admiration for Newfoundland’s residents. “They’re really good storytellers and they’re really open and very trusting,” he said, while also acknowledging the rich tapestry of Newfoundland culture that informed the narrative. He emphasised the importance of local folklore in shaping the series, referring to the creator Jesse McKeown’s efforts to weave the cultural essence of Newfoundland into the script.

Other filming locations included Pouch Cove, a historic town situated around 60 miles north of Brigus South. Its rugged cliffs and unspoiled coastline provided dramatic backdrops, including scenes involving fish farms and community halls in the series. The production team took advantage of the natural beauty offered by the area, particularly the East Coast Trail, known for its waterfalls and stunning vistas.

Additionally, some scenes were filmed in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital. Downtown St. John’s served as the backdrop for various background scenes, while the marine research facility portrayed in the series was established at St. John’s Ocean Sciences Centre. Commenting on the project, Dr. Andrew Furey, a former premier of Newfoundland, emphasised the province’s rich storytelling heritage and scenic landscapes, highlighting their ability to bring the series’ ambitious vision to life.

Another filming location was Harbour Main, where the local establishment, Linda’s Bar, appeared in “Below.” The real bar, named Town of Old, was praised by cast members. Heaton described the venue as “timeless,” recalling how the character Linda Best is reminiscent of the actual proprietor.

Bay Bulls, a picturesque fishing village on the rugged Irish Loop, also served as a key location. Renowned for its whale watching and coastal views, Bay Bulls was used in some major scenes that involved local expeditions. The landscape, featuring cliffs on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other, perfectly complemented the show’s thematic elements.

Lastly, one of the series’ most notable features is the “Mudder,” a massive floating ice formation near Snooks Arm that serves as the habitat of the creature menacing the town. In reality, the ice where Calvin harvests is near the Twillingate Islands in Notre Dame Bay, an area celebrated as the “Iceberg Capital of the World.” Twillingate’s unique location allows it to be a prime spot for iceberg sightings, a geographical advantage stemming from its proximity to Greenland and the Canadian Arctic.

Overall, “Below” is a captivating exploration of urban folklore, community spirit, and the stunning natural beauty found in Newfoundland and Labrador, with its filming locations contributing significantly to the series’ atmospheric storytelling. As the narrative unfolds against this breathtaking backdrop, viewers are invited to immerse themselves not only in the drama but also in the rich cultural heritage of this extraordinary region.