New Netflix series The Boroughs uses a mix of real life locations and custom built sets to create a new sci-fi world.
The Boroughs is currently one of the most popular titles on the streaming platform right now. At the time of writing, it is the second most watched series among UK-based subscribers despite only being made available just a few days ago.
According to its synopsis, the eight-part mystery thriller is set in a seemingly picturesque retirement community, a group of unlikely heroes must band together to stop an otherworldly threat from stealing the one thing they don’t have: time.
It is created by writers Jeffrey Addiss and Will Matthews with previous credits include The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance and The Lord of the Rings: The War of Rohirrim. However, it is also being billed as the new series from the makers of Stranger Things.
That is because the Duffer Brothers are both credited as executive producers. They have even spoken about how The Boroughs shares the same spirit as their own creation. One aspect it shares is its use of location to present a believable world, despite the strange goings on.
So where was The Boroughs filmed? Here’s all you need to know.
View 2 ImagesThe production took advantage of the New Mexico desert and surrounding areas(Image: Netflix)
The large majority of the series was filmed where the series was set, among the desert of New Mexico in the USA. Primarily filming spots in the state included Santa Fe and Albuquerque, where Breaking Bad was famously filmed.
Netflix has its own large studios complex in Albuquerque where a lot of the production took place. This includes the stand out houses that are located on the cul-de-sac where Sam and his neighbours reside within The Boroughs.
It seems that the residences located on this specific road where custom built. You can even see the location for yourself by searching for the studios location on Google Maps.
Elsewhere, filming took advantage of some other real life spots in New Mexico. Those familiar with the surrounding area, will spot that the Sandia Mountains appear several times in the background during episodes.
The Manor, which serves as part headquarters of The Boroughs and place where residents with extra needs are kept, was partially filmed at a former hotel. It used to be a Ramada by Wyndham Albuquerque East but the business since closed the location.
View 2 ImagesThe Manor is set to be housing for actual senior residents in the future(Image: Netflix)
It has since been renovated into an apartment complex called Juniper Flats. In a reflection of The Boroughs, it is intended to provide affordable housing for seniors.
Website Atlas of Wonders, also notes that the abandoned desert town featured in episode 2 was filmed at the famous Bonanza Creek Ranch near Santa Fe.
Established in the 1940s, this Western-style film ranch has a long history as a filming location for Hollywood productions, and has previously served Netflix shows like Godless and American Primeval.
According to local news website KOB, other notable locations that can be spotted include:
- First Plaza Galeria – Albuquerque, NM
- Old Ramada Inn – Albuquerque, NM
- Rio Rancho Storage – Rio Rancho, NM
- Sunport Pool – Albuquerque, NM
- Expo NM – Albuquerque, NM
- Luna Mansion – Los Lunas, NM
- Traditions – Algodones, NM
- Twin Warriors Golf Club / Tamaya Resort – Santa Ana Pueblo, NM
- J & A Quick Stop – Los Lunas, NM
- Montessa Park – Albuquerque, NM
- Southwest Livestock Auction – Los Lunas, NM
- Raks – Albuquerque, NM
- Albuquerque Convention Center – Albuquerque, NM
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The Boroughs is streaming on Netflix.