Where was Society of the Snow filmed?

“Society of the Snow” (Spanish: La sociedad de la nieve), the gripping survival thriller directed by J. A. Bayona, takes audiences on a riveting journey through the harrowing events of the Uruguayan 1972 Andes flight disaster.

As the narrative unfolds, the film’s captivating visuals are not only a testament to the director’s vision but also to the carefully selected filming locations that contribute to the authenticity of the storytelling.

Principal photography and filming for “Society of the Snow” commenced on January 10 and concluded on April 29, 2022, in the picturesque setting of Sierra Nevada, Spain. This location served as the primary backdrop for the movie, particularly portraying the actual crash site in the Andes Mountains.

To enhance the realism of certain scenes, director J.A. Bayona and his team went to great lengths. A stage was constructed 2000 meters up in the mountains, becoming the platform for filming additional storm sequences and various interior scenes.

Despite the logistical challenges posed by the mountainous terrain, Bayona shared insights into the filming process with Screen Daily, emphasizing the difficulty of shooting in such awe-inspiring yet treacherous locations.

While Sierra Nevada formed the core of the film’s visual narrative, other essential scenes were filmed in Montevideo, Uruguay. The airport, rugby sequences, and additional footage, including scenes involving the families of the crash victims, were expertly captured in this South American location.

Filming in Uruguay concluded in late July 2022, marking a pivotal phase in the production. Subsequently, the production team transitioned to Madrid, where they continued to bring the narrative to life. Madrid served as a complementary setting for certain aspects of the story, contributing to the film’s diverse visual palette.

In a testament to the film’s commitment to authenticity, aerial footage was captured in 2021 from the Andes Mountains and later projected 360 degrees inside the sets constructed in Spain.

This meticulous attention to detail not only showcases the advancements in filmmaking technology but also underscores the filmmakers’ dedication to crafting a compelling and visually immersive storytelling experience.