After the Flood: A Dark Detective Drama Set Against a Real British Landscape
The critically acclaimed series After the Flood has captivated audiences with its gripping narrative, compelling characters, and striking visuals. Set against the backdrop of a perpetually rain-soaked town in the north of England, the show not only delivers a tense crime thriller but also makes a powerful statement about the climate crisis and its impact on vulnerable communities. But where is After the Flood filmed? Let's take a closer look at the real locations that bring this dark detective drama to life.
The Yorkshire Setting: A Familiar Yet Striking Backdrop
Like many British TV dramas, After the Flood draws inspiration from the scenic beauty of Yorkshire. The series is primarily set in a fictional town that mirrors the real-life communities in the region, particularly those that have been affected by flooding in recent years. The show's use of Yorkshire as a setting is more than just a matter of aesthetics; it's a deliberate choice that underscores the series' themes of environmental crisis and social injustice.
The Moors: A Haunting and Atmospheric Location
One of the most striking aspects of After the Flood is its use of the Yorkshire moors. These vast, windswept landscapes serve as more than just a backdrop; they become a character in their own right, reflecting the turmoil and tension of the story. In Series Two, a body is discovered on the moors, setting in motion a complex investigation that touches on multiple environmental and ethical issues.
The moors are not just visually arresting; they also play a crucial role in the show's exploration of environmental themes. The burning of heather on the uplands, a practice that facilitates grouse shooting but leaves downstream communities more vulnerable to floods, is one of the key plot points in Series Two. By filming on the real moors, the series brings this contentious issue to life in a way that feels immediate and urgent.
Flood-Affected Towns: A Glimpse into Reality
The title of the series itself hints at its central theme: the impact of flooding on northern English communities. While the specific town in the series is fictional, the flooding events depicted are inspired by real-life disasters that have affected parts of Yorkshire and other regions in the north of England. The show's use of flood-affected locations adds a layer of authenticity that resonates with viewers who may have experienced or witnessed similar events.
In Series One, the aftermath of a flood serves as the catalyst for the main plot, allowing the series to make a powerful, yet not hectoring, point about the climate crisis. In Series Two, environmental issues continue to be at the forefront, with the investigation touching on pollution, fly-tipping, and other forms of environmental degradation. By filming in locations that mirror these real-world problems, the series underscores the urgent need for action on climate change and environmental protection.
The Production Team: Bringing the Story to Life
Behind the scenes, the production team for After the Flood has done an exceptional job of capturing the essence of the Yorkshire landscape. Writer Mick Ford, known for his socially conscious storytelling, has crafted a series that is as much about the environment and social justice as it is about crime and detection. Director and cinematographer Matt Squire has brought Ford's vision to life with stunning visuals that capture both the beauty and the harshness of the Yorkshire landscape.
The lead actress, Sophie Rundle, delivers a luminous performance as Joanna Marshall, a character who embodies the series' blend of personal struggle and social consciousness. Rundle's portrayal of Jo, a determined and morally driven detective who is also navigating the challenges of motherhood and a broken marriage, is a testament to the show's commitment to complex, nuanced character development.
A Premium Genre Piece with Social Consciousness
In an era where many crime dramas are content to follow the formula without pushing the boundaries, After the Flood stands out as a premium genre piece that doesn't shy away from tackling important social and environmental issues. By filming in real locations that reflect these issues, the series adds a layer of authenticity that elevates it above the ordinary.
As the series continues to explore the intersection of crime, community, and the environment, viewers are not just entertained; they are also invited to reflect on the pressing issues of our time. Whether it's the flooding that serves as the backdrop for the series or the environmental crimes that form the basis of the investigations, After the Flood is a show that reminds us of the urgent need to address the challenges that affect us all.
Conclusion: A Drama Rooted in Reality
In conclusion, After the Flood is filmed in locations that are as much a part of the story as the characters and the plot. From the dramatic moors to the flood-affected towns, the series uses its setting to explore themes that are relevant and urgent in today's world. By filming in real locations that mirror these issues, the series adds a layer of authenticity that makes it both compelling and thought-provoking.
For viewers who are fans of the show, knowing where After the Flood is filmed adds another dimension to their appreciation of the series. For those who are yet to discover this gem of a drama, the real-world settings are just one more reason to dive into a story that is as much about the world we live in as it is about the crimes that happen within it.
