May December stars Natalie Portman and Chris Tenzis and is expertly directed by Todd Haynes. The film explores the story of a controversial couple that finds some wounds opened when an actress visits their home to research a role she is going to play in a movie. The screenplay has its roots in a sordid true-life affair and covers some uncomfortable topics, but for now we’re more interested in the background of the production and the filming locations used to bring the story to the small (and big, in a limited theatrical run before its release on Netflix) screen. Filmed on location in Georgia, May December looked to capture the region’s specific visual language and feel, retaining authenticity through the use of real residential homes and businesses in the area.
Where was May December filmed?
Georgia
As expected, May December was filmed on location, although originally the screenplay was set in Camden.
In a press release, director Haynes would say, “The kind of humidity and marshland light that emanates from that region offered such a specific visual language. That kind of milky light seeps past the frames and often silhouettes the shots.”
So the mood of the movie seemed to draw inspiration from the location. The production took place in the Autumn of 2022 and lasted between October and November. Many of the locations used were real houses and businesses in the Georgia area.
An article on House Beautiful found some of the houses used in the film production, including the home used for protagonist Gracie. You can follow House Beautiful on Instagram.
Tybee Island, Georgia
May December Home Interior | Image via Netflix
Tybee Island is a city and a barrier island located in Chatham County, Georgia, 18 miles east of Savannah. The large and luxurious property is more privately located, and as such, served as the perfect place for the characters to live, away from the spotlight of the city, and staying true to the now private nature of the characters.
Gallery Espresso, Savannah
This is where Elizabeth and Gracie’s ex-husband meet in the movie, and was filmed in the coffee shop in Chippewa Square. A local hot spot, the beautiful location is decorated with art from local artists and serves a lovely pastry too.
Estill Manor, Savannah
Estill Manor, Savannah, Georgia, used for filming in May December | Image via Hichee
The character Elizabeth stays at an old Inn, and it is, in reality, a stately home called Estill Manor that is a living museum, extensively and lovingly restored. If you are keen, you can book a stay at the manor with prices at around a thousand dollars a night with a three-night minimum stay. Whew.
Hutchinson Island
For the scenes outdoors, with Gracie going hunting, or Joe walking the dogs, the May December filmed at Hutchinson Island in Savannah, Georgia. This is a stretch of public road, owned by the City Government, but it also doubles up as a race circuit, purpose-designed for racing.
Who directed and produced May December?
May December was directed by Todd Haynes, a celebrated professional who has many credits including Far From Heaven, Carol, The Velvet Underground, and Dark Waters. Born in LA in 1961, the filmmaker has also worked in music videos and famously directed Sonic Youth’s promo for Disappearer.
Production-wise, some note-worthy names were attached to the project. Natalie Portman is credited, as is Sophie Mas and Will Ferrell.
