What's Happening?
The second season of the Amazon Prime Video series 'Fallout' features a unique filming location, transforming an abandoned Los Angeles mall into a post-apocalyptic version of Las Vegas, known as New Vegas. The production team, led by designer Howard Cummings,
chose the Valley Plaza Mall, which has been dormant for over a decade, to recreate a retro-futuristic Las Vegas before a fictional nuclear bombing in 2077. The set includes practical elements like the Gomorrah Hotel and Casino, with digital backdrops enhancing the visual experience. The series follows characters Lucy and The Ghoul, played by Ella Purnell and Walton Goggins, respectively, as they navigate this dystopian landscape.
Why It's Important?
The innovative use of an abandoned mall for filming highlights the creative approaches in modern television production, offering a cost-effective and visually compelling alternative to traditional sets. This approach not only revitalizes unused urban spaces but also contributes to the local economy by employing local crews and services. The series 'Fallout' continues to attract viewers with its unique storytelling and visual style, potentially influencing future productions to explore similar creative solutions. The show's success could lead to increased interest in post-apocalyptic narratives, reflecting societal concerns about the future.
What's Next?
With the approval to demolish the Valley Plaza Mall starting in October 2025, 'Fallout' will need to find a new location if the storyline returns to New Vegas in future seasons. The series has been renewed for a third season, but production details remain undisclosed. The demolition of the mall marks the end of an era for a site that has hosted numerous film and TV productions over the years. The decision to demolish the mall could prompt discussions about preserving historical sites versus making way for new developments.
