The Authenticity of White House Replicas in Filmed Entertainment
Have you ever wondered where the iconic scenes of the White House shown in TV shows and movies are filmed? The answer is often in a meticulously crafted replica that closely resembles the real White House. These replicas are used to maintain the authenticity of the setting without the logistical and security challenges of filming on the actual premises.
Replicas of the White House Used in Filming
The White House and its iconic surroundings have been a backdrop in numerous films and television shows. One of the most notable replicas is the White House set at Universal Studios. This set is designed to capture the unique architecture and interior of the real White House, allowing filmmakers to create authentic-looking scenes without the need for on-location filming. Similarly, the Universal set has been used in a variety of productions including The West Wing, The Missiles of October, and other notable titles.
Exterior and Interior Differences
It is important to note that while the exterior shots often appear to be taken at the real White House, the interiors are typically filmed on a movie set. This separation ensures that the filming process does not interfere with the operations of the White House, adheres to strict security measures, and provides the creative freedom needed for the production to succeed. Many documentaries and informational sources can provide a detailed tour of the White House rooms, and a liaison person is often assigned to manage the details for filmmakers.
Purpose-Built West Wing Elements
For productions like The West Wing, the creators needed more than just the oval office. Aaron Sorkin, the creator, and Martin Sheen, who played the role of the President, were granted permission to take pictures of the Oval Office, Roosevelt Room, and a few other rooms. However, most other elements were created through the imagination of the production team and were built according to their specifications. These sets, often referred to as movie sets, can be compared to Lego pieces, where smaller components are combined to create a larger scene. This method allows for flexibility and precision in recreating an authentic and detailed setting.
Availability of Oval Office Sets
The Oval Office set is one of the most recognizable and used elements when filming scenes that require a White House setting. With the advancements in filming technology, there are now several standing and packaged Oval Office sets available in Los Angeles at major studios and from scenic rental vendors. These sets vary in accuracy and detail but are invaluable in providing a realistic background for filmed entertainment.
These sets are not only limited to the Oval Office. Other sets are erected as needed, and components are stored on set. They are often as intricate as the real thing, with furniture, drapes, artwork, and props that are specifically designed to fit the historical period or the creative vision of the production. Even a 2/3rd scale full oval office has been trucked in and shot, demonstrating the versatility and adaptability of these sets.
The decoration of the White House changes with every administration, which means that the cost of an Oval Office set is primarily in the furniture, drapes, artwork, small props, and the huge round carpet with the presidential seal, rather than the hidden doors or tall windows.
These replicas of the White House play a crucial role in the filming industry, allowing filmmakers to create an authentic and visually stunning backdrop for their productions, while ensuring the safety and security of the White House itself.