Exploring What Mall Better Call Saul Was Filmed In

Introduction

Better Call Saul is an American crime drama television series created by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould. It is a prequel and spin-off of Breaking Bad, which was also created by Gilligan. The show follows the story of small-time lawyer Jimmy McGill (Bob Odenkirk) as he transforms into the criminal defense attorney Saul Goodman. The show has been praised for its writing, acting, and cinematography.

The show is set and filmed primarily in Albuquerque, New Mexico. One of the most iconic locations used in the show is the mall where Jimmy McGill works as a parking lot attendant. In this article, we will explore what mall Better Call Saul was filmed in, discussing the mall’s history, production design, and local reaction to the increased foot traffic during filming.

Interview with the Mall Manager Discussing What It Was Like to Host Better Call Saul Filming

We had the opportunity to sit down with the mall manager, who gave us an insider’s perspective on what it was like to host Better Call Saul filming. The manager described their job as being responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the mall, including tenant relations, marketing, and maintenance. They have been in this role for over five years.

When asked about the preparation for the filming, the manager noted that there was quite a bit of work involved. They worked closely with the film crew to ensure that the mall was properly prepared for the shoot. This included making sure the space was clean and safe, as well as providing any necessary props or decorations. Additionally, they had to coordinate with other tenants in the mall to make sure that the filming did not interfere with their business operations.

The manager also discussed some of the challenges faced during the filming. One of the biggest issues was managing the large crowds that came to watch the filming. As the mall was open to the public during the filming, it was important to ensure that the safety of the patrons was not compromised. Additionally, the manager had to be mindful of the noise level, as the filming often took place late at night.

An Overview of the Mall and Its History as the Setting for Better Call Saul

The mall used in the filming of Better Call Saul is the Winrock Shopping Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The mall opened in 1961 and was one of the first shopping centers in the city. Over the years, the mall has gone through several renovations and expansions, but still retains many of its original features.

The mall has a long and storied history, having been featured in several films, television shows, and music videos. In addition to Better Call Saul, the mall has been used in the films The Avengers, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, and Natural Born Killers. It has also been featured in episodes of the television show Breaking Bad and the music video for “Oops!…I Did It Again” by Britney Spears.

Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Production Design of the Mall in Better Call Saul

The production design team for Better Call Saul made several changes to the mall for the filming. To create the look and feel of a retro mall, they added vintage signage, furniture, and lighting fixtures. They also built a replica of the mall’s original food court, complete with vintage booths and tables.

In addition to the physical changes, the production design team also used special effects to enhance the mall’s atmosphere. For example, they used fog machines to create a spooky atmosphere and projected images onto the walls to create the illusion of a lively shopping center.

A Comparison of the Shopping Experience of the Real Mall vs. the Fictional Mall in Better Call Saul

The real mall offers a variety of stores and services, from clothing stores to restaurants. It is a popular destination for locals, who come to shop, dine, and enjoy the mall’s atmosphere. The mall also hosts various events throughout the year, such as live music performances, art exhibits, and holiday celebrations.

The fictional mall in Better Call Saul is a much different experience than the real mall. While the real mall is vibrant and bustling, the mall in the show is eerily quiet and empty. The production design team used several techniques, such as dim lighting and minimal decorations, to create an eerie atmosphere.

How the Mall Changed During the Filming of Better Call Saul

The filming of Better Call Saul had a noticeable impact on the mall. During the filming, the mall saw an increase in foot traffic, as curious onlookers came to watch the filming. Additionally, the mall experienced an uptick in sales, as fans of the show purchased merchandise related to the show.

The mall also underwent physical changes due to the filming. Several areas of the mall were closed off for filming, and the production design team made changes to the mall’s decor and fixtures. After the filming was completed, the mall returned to its original state.

Local Reaction to the Increased Foot Traffic During Better Call Saul Filming

The increased foot traffic during the filming of Better Call Saul had a mixed reaction from locals. Some were excited to see the mall featured on the show, while others felt that the filming caused disruption to their daily lives. However, overall, the response was positive, as many locals felt that the show put Albuquerque on the map and showcased the city’s unique culture.

Touring the Mall and Exploring the Locations Used in Better Call Saul

The mall is open to the public and visitors can take a self-guided tour of the locations used in the show. Visitors can explore the mall’s shops and restaurants, as well as the areas used in the show. Additionally, visitors can take part in various activities, such as scavenger hunts and trivia games.

Conclusion

The Winrock Shopping Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico was the primary location for the filming of Better Call Saul. The mall has a long and storied history, having been featured in several films, television shows, and music videos. The production design team made several changes to the mall for the filming, and the mall saw an increase in foot traffic during the filming. Overall, the local reaction to the increased foot traffic was positive, and the mall remains a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.