Exploring the Filming Locations of The Help in Mississippi

The Help, a critically acclaimed period drama film directed by Tate Taylor and based on Kathryn Stockett’s novel of the same name, was primarily filmed in the state of Mississippi. The filmmakers carefully selected various locations to recreate the 1960s-era Jackson, as well as other significant settings in the story. This article delves into the filming locations used in The Help and highlights some noteworthy sites for fans and film enthusiasts to explore.

The Town of Greenwood, Mississippi

The town of Greenwood played a pivotal role in portraying the 1960s-era Jackson in the film. Its authentic charm and historical architecture provided the ideal backdrop for many scenes. Visitors can appreciate the town’s unique atmosphere and explore the streets that served as the setting for several memorable moments in the movie.

Real-Life Jackson, Clarksdale, and Greenville

In addition to Greenwood, parts of The Help were also filmed in the real-life city of Jackson. The filmmakers utilized various locations in Jackson to capture the essence of the story, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in the film’s world. Nearby towns such as Clarksdale and Greenville also served as filming locations, adding further depth to the movie’s portrayal of Mississippi during the Civil Rights Movement.

Respecting Privacy

It is important to note that many of the filming locations used in The Help are private houses. While these sites may be of interest to fans, it is crucial to respect the privacy of the residents and refrain from trespassing on private property. Visitors can still appreciate the significance of these locations from a distance and admire the artistry that went into creating the film.

Notable Filming Locations

Several notable filming locations from The Help deserve special mention. These sites played integral roles in the narrative and added authenticity to the film’s depiction of 1960s Mississippi. Here are a few locations worth visiting:

• Mayflower Cafe in Jackson: This establishment was where Skeeter and Stuart had dinner, and it remains a popular dining spot today.
• Brent’s Drugs in Jackson: This local soda fountain and pharmacy is where Skeeter frequently met with her friends, highlighting the social dynamics of the era.
• Jackson Junior League club in Greenwood: The club served as the filming location for Hilly’s “sanitation initiative,” a significant scene in the movie.
• Minny’s house in Greenwood: Located in the Baptist Town neighborhood, this house is a key setting for the character of Minny and her story.
• Skeeter’s house in Greenwood: The exterior scenes of Skeeter’s house were filmed on Money Road, showcasing the character’s background and environment.
• The former Bank of Clarksdale in Clarksdale: This building was transformed into the Jackson Journal, a significant location in the film.

Exploring these filming locations allows visitors to connect with the story of The Help on a deeper level. It provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the film’s attention to detail and the skillful use of real-life settings to enhance the storytelling.

Overall, The Help offers a poignant portrayal of a significant period in American history. By visiting the filming locations, fans can gain a deeper understanding of the film’s context and appreciate the skill and creativity involved in its production.

Sources:

• Wikipedia: The Help (film)
• Movie-Locations.com: The Help (2011)
• This Is My South: The Help Filming Locations to Visit

FAQs

Exploring the Filming Locations of The Help in Mississippi

Which town in Mississippi was chosen to portray 1960s-era Jackson in the film?

The town of Greenwood, Mississippi, was chosen to portray 1960s-era Jackson in the film The Help. Its authentic charm and historical architecture provided an ideal backdrop for many scenes.

Besides Greenwood, were any other locations in Mississippi used for filming?

Yes, parts of the film were also shot in the real-life city of Jackson, as well as in nearby Clarksdale and Greenville. These locations added depth to the movie’s portrayal of Mississippi during the Civil Rights Movement.

Can visitors explore the filming locations that are private houses?

While some of the filming locations in The Help are private houses, it is important to respect the privacy of the residents and not trespass on private property. Visitors can still appreciate the significance of these locations from a distance.

What are some notable filming locations from The Help?

Some notable filming locations from The Help include:
– Mayflower Cafe in Jackson, where Skeeter and Stuart had dinner.
– Brent’s Drugs in Jackson, a local soda fountain and pharmacy where Skeeter met her friends.
– Jackson Junior League club in Greenwood, which was used as the filming location for Hilly’s “sanitation initiative.”
– Minny’s house, located in the Baptist Town neighborhood of Greenwood.
– Skeeter’s house, with the exterior scenes filmed on Money Road in Greenwood.
– The former Bank of Clarksdale in Clarksdale, which portrayed the Jackson Journal in the film.

How can exploring these filming locations enhance the understanding of the film?

Exploring these filming locations allows fans and film enthusiasts to connect with the story of The Help on a deeper level. It provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the film’s attention to detail, the skillful use of real-life settings, and gain a deeper understanding of the film’s context.

Are there any other resources available to learn more about The Help’s filming locations?

For more information about The Help’s filming locations in Mississippi, you can refer to reliable sources such as Wikipedia, Movie-Locations.com, and This Is My South. These sources provide detailed information and insights into the filming process and specific locations used in the film.