Hillbilly Elegy, directed by Ron Howard, is a 2020 American drama film based on J.D. Vance's 2016 memoir of the same name. The film features a stellar cast, including Amy Adams, Glenn Close and Gabriel Basso, and explores themes of family, addiction and resilience.
Released by Netflix in November 2020, the film has been both praised and critiqued for its portrayal of Appalachian life and the struggles faced by the Vance family.
The shooting locations of this movie are vital, as they help to bring out a true background that augments its narration. It was shot in Ohio and Georgia, capturing both rural and urban settings that play a central role in its story. Places like Middletown, Ohio where his difficult young ages were spent to his academic pursuits ending to success were selected for the shoot.
Where was Hillbilly Elegy filmed?
1) Middletown, Ohio, USA
Many exterior scenes were filmed in Middletown which is JD Vance’s real-life hometown.
It's an important setting because it signifies JD’s origins or roots like where he comes from as far as community influence is concerned. The choice to shoot Middletown allowed for depth into what JD went through during his earlier life.
2) Macon, Georgia, USA
Various external scenes were also shot in Macon city which was used extensively as one of the major filming sites.
It was also used to replicate the Appalachian region, showing how these places looked like according to Vance’s memoirs. The choice of Macon helped to seamlessly blend the different settings in the film.
3) Clayton, Georgia, USA
Other areas include sections of Clayton as the home rehab facility featured within the narrative. Showcasing what Bev went through in her long struggle with addiction, this location was selected to describe heart-rending stages of J.D.’s mother’s life.
4) Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Atlanta served as one of the filming locations that featured Ken’s house. The choice of this place was because it was easily accessible and provided flexibility for the crew and also helped capture various aspects that are associated with J.D.’s life.
5) 2433 Shallowford Rd, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Another location used was number 2433 Shallowford RD Atlanta Georgia where the scenes at Ken’s home were shot.
The detailed depiction of this setting was crucial for the storyline, showcasing J.D.'s interactions with his family and the complex dynamics at play within his household.
What is Hillbilly Elegy about?
Hillbilly Elegy follows the life of J.D. Vance, who reflects on his tumultuous upbringing in Middletown, Ohio. Raised by his mother Bev, who struggles with drug addiction, and his grandparents from Jackson, Kentucky, J.D.'s childhood is marked by instability and hardship.
The film portrays his journey from a troubled youth to a Yale Law School graduate, highlighting the support of his grandmother, Mamaw, and his determination to break free from the cycle of poverty and addiction that has plagued his family.
More details about the movie
The narrative of Hillbilly Elegy is driven by powerful performances, particularly by Amy Adams as Bev Vance and Glenn Close as Mamaw Vance. Bev is portayed by Adams with unrestrained brutality, revealing a mother struggling with addiction and raising her children.
Gabriel Basso and Owen Asztalos star as adult JD Vance and young JD, respectively, effectively portraying the emotional and psychological journey of the protagonist.
Hillbilly Elegy is available to watch on streaming platform Netflix.