In the last Hunger Games movie, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2, one of the film location looked familiar to me. And it was indeed, as they filmed some scenes just outside Paris, France, in a vast futuristic architectural zone, that very few know about.

Come along as I explore this urban playground

 

The Hunger Games filming location pinterest

 

Did you imagine that some of the scenes in the last Hunger games movie were filmed right outside Paris? I sure as hell didn’t! The place chosen as the Hunger games filming location is called « Espaces d’Abraxas Â», and is located in Noisy-le-Grand, a Paris suburb.

To visit this place, hop on the RER A from Gare de Lyon, and you’ll get to Noisy-le-Grand within 30 minutes; from there, it’s a mere 10 minutes walk to the filming location.

 

map from paris gare de lyon to espaces d abraxas in noisy

 

Exploring the Hunger Games filming location

As you enter this architectural marvel, you soon begin to feel the mood of the movie: an oppressing environment, where you could picture Katniss Everdeen running for her life.

 

 

As you step further into the urban project, feeling dwarfed by the enormity of the buildings all around, you then get to an open air area. This is exactly where the heroes of The Hunger Games were running away from the black goo, and as I stand there, I feel like I’m in the movie, part of the adventure.

 

This part of Noisy-le-Grand really feels like a movie set, almost like it’s been built especially to serve as a filming location for futuristic movies. However the reality is far different: the three main buildings, named « le Théâtre Â», « L’arc Â» and « Le Palacio » are all residential buildings. They host more than 600 flats on 18 stories, and more than a thousand people live here.

 

Hunger games filming location 4

 

Hunger games filming location 11

 

You know me, I’m never satisfied with the classic sights. I had to find a way to get a unique perspective on this incredible Hunger Games filming location. I went hunting for roofs with my good friend Robin , and we found a way to get to the very top of one of the main building, overlooking the open air area below.

 

Hunger games filming location rooftop with handstand

 

Hunger games filming location view from rooftop

 

Disclaimer: Robin and I are trained professionals, please don’t try this without proper preparation

 

Even though the main area of interest remains the Hunger Games filming location, there are actually some pretty impressive architectural marvels scattered around the city. Go on an adventure and start exploring the city around; if you like that kind of architecture, you’re in for a treat.

 

Hunger games filming location parking lot in noisy

 

jumping in Hunger games filming location

 

General Tips

As you go on an adventure to explore the Hunger Games filming location, here are a few tips to keep in mind to make the most out of your trip:

-Wake up early to explore early in the morning

-Avoid late afternoon if you want to experience the area without any crowd

-Avoid evenings, this place is best in the mornings when there’s enough light

-Be silent, remember there are thousands of people living in these buildings, be respectful

-Explore the area, but don’t limit yourself to it; try to scout around and see what else is around

-When you’re done, head to the mall « Les Arcades Â» to grab a bite and relax

 

Hunger games filming location in noisy le grand

 

Hunger games filming location magic with cards

 

Editing

When shooting on location, I’m shooting RAW. This means the file has more data, allowing you to edit the picture afterward with much more depth. However, it also means the pictures don’t look that good straight out of the camera.

To me, the edit is as important as taking the shot. That’s when I’m really creating the mood for my images, and deciding what emotions I want to create for the viewers.

You can see below the before/after of the pictures (tap on the photos to see the before/after)

 

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Did you know about this incredible location? Have you been there?

Now what are you waiting for? Go on an real life The Hunger Games adventure, and May the Odds be Ever in your Favor.