Behind the Scenes: How Gettysburg Was Filmed at Gettysburg

Introduction

The historic town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, played a significant role in the Civil War and has long been a magnet for filmmakers seeking to capture its iconic landscape. One of the most notable films to use Gettysburg's battlefields as a backdrop is 'Gettysburg.' This critically acclaimed movie, released in 1993, directed by George P.positions, and based on Michael Shaara's novel, provided an unprecedented look into the Battle of Gettysburg. However, the film's use of Gettysburg as a filming location was not without its challenges and unique compromises.

Placing the Filming

The most compelling aspect of 'Gettysburg' is how closely it adheres to the real-world locations of the Battle of Gettysburg. For example, the outdoor scenes not involving combat were filmed on the National Park Service (NPS) battlefield. One of the most striking scenes from the film is the conversation between the Chamberlain brothers, where they are seen drinking coffee and talking on Big Round Top. However, this scene was actually shot on Little Round Top, giving the impression of authenticity. The legs of the Warren statue barely visible in the background are a subtle yet telling detail that betrays the film's meticulous attention to location accuracy.

Preserving the Terrain

Not all scenes could be filmed on the battlefield due to the sensitive nature of private property. The combat scenes, which required vehicular movement and large-scale sets, were shot on nearby farms and private properties. The iconic Pickett's Charge sequence, in particular, was filmed on the Bushy Farm, just a short distance west of the battlefield. This move was necessary to preserve the natural appearance of the terrain, ensuring that the film maintained its historical authenticity while still providing a dramatic and compelling visual experience.

Creating Fictitious Sets

For certain scenes that required a more intimate, defensive angle, such as the scenes in the Seminary cupola, the filmmakers had to get creative. The cupola scenes, which are so crucial to the film's plot, were actually filmed using fake sets. A mural of the town was placed behind a mock cupola, and the scenes were reversed to give the impression that Confederate general John Buford was observing the battle from the cupola. This innovative approach enabled the filmmakers to capture the essence of the battle without sacrificing historical accuracy.

Additional Filming Locations

The scene in the Director's cut where Buford and Devin ride through a cemetery was also filmed on actual ground. Specifically, this scene was shot in Evergreen Cemetery. The filmmakers took great care to position the camera angles in such a way that no National Cemetery was visible, ensuring the authenticity of the setting. The scene in front of the Cashtown Inn is another prime example of the film's location accuracy. The road was closed and covered with dirt, and troops marched past the inn, recreating the authentic atmosphere of the time.

Conclusion

In summary, 'Gettysburg' brilliantly blended the power of historical drama with the visual splendor of its real-world setting. The majority of the outdoor scenes were filmed on the actual Gettysburg battlefield, with only select combat scenes offsite. This strategy not only enhanced the film's historical accuracy but also provided a memorable and immersive experience for audiences. The commitment to location fidelity in 'Gettysburg' serves as a testament to the filmmakers' dedication to capturing the essence of the Battle of Gettysburg, ensuring that this iconic period in American history remains vivid and relevant in the modern era.