Janet Planet is a 2023 coming-of-age drama movie directed by Annie Baker.
This film marks her first time directing a movie! The cast includes Julianne Nicholson, Zoe Ziegler, Elias Koteas, Will Patton, and Sophie Okonedo.
The story is set in the Pioneer Valley in Western Massachusetts during the summer of 1991.
It follows an 11-year-old girl named Lacy, who is spending her summer at home in the countryside.
Lacy is imaginative and enjoys the time she spends with her mom, Janet.
This summer, three visitors came into their lives. Each of these visitors is fascinated by Janet.
Meanwhile, Lacy’s imagination grows so vivid that it starts to blend with the real world around her.
Filming took place in several towns across Massachusetts, an area known for its beautiful landscapes and historical sites.
Where Was Janet Planet Filmed?
Janet Planet was filmed in many small towns in Massachusetts, including Amherst, Ashfield, Chesterfield, Cummington, Easthampton, Hadley, Leverett, Northampton, Springfield, and Williamsburg.
Each town added its own unique look to the movie and helped bring the Pioneer Valley to life.
Amherst
One of the most memorable spots is Mount Pollux Conservation Area in Amherst. The area has a lovely hilltop view that Baker, the director, remembers from her childhood.
In the movie, this spot brings a sense of calm and beauty. Back in 1991, there were two maple trees on the hill. Today, there’s only one, so the film includes an image of how it looked back then.
Ashfield
In Ashfield, Janet Planet filmed at Double Edge Theatre. The theater is known for its unique puppets, which Janet and Lacy see during a night out.
Double Edge Theatre’s designers crafted surreal, handmade puppets, making this scene magical and memorable.
Hadley
The small ice cream trailer Creamy Delights in Hadley is another location that appears in the movie.
It’s run by Pat McCarthy, who sells “New York-style” ice cream with rich butterfat, making it a perfect summer treat.
The trailer, set across from farm fields, gives viewers a taste of Hadley’s relaxed summer vibes.
Hampshire Mall
Located on Route 9, the Hampshire Mall, opened in 1978, captures a classic ’90s feel. It includes a JCPenney store and even a roller skating rink.
This mall helped set the tone for the movie’s early ’90s setting, making it a fitting location.
Leverett
The forested area of Leverett is where the house scenes with Janet and Lacy were filmed.
The director chose this spot to show the beauty of the forest and the peaceful nature of Western Massachusetts.
The sound team even recorded natural forest sounds to add an authentic feel to these scenes.
Northampton
In Northampton, the movie shows a mural called “The History of Women in Northampton from 1600 to 1980.”
This mural celebrates the contributions of local women like Sojourner Truth and Sophia Smith.
In the film, it appears during a scene with Lacy and her friend Regina, who talk about the mural’s history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where was Janet Planet filmed?
A: Janet Planet was filmed in several towns in Massachusetts, mainly around the Pioneer Valley, including Amherst, Ashfield, Hadley, Leverett, and Northampton.
Q: When Did Filming for Janet Planet Take Place?
A: Filming for Janet Planet took place throughout 2023, capturing the beauty of summer in Massachusetts.
Q: What is the setting for Janet Planet?
A: The movie is set in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts during the summer of 1991.
Q: Why did the movie choose these filming locations?
A: The locations reflect the natural beauty and peaceful environment of Western Massachusetts, an area important to director Annie Baker, who grew up there.
Q: Is the forest in the movie an actual place in Massachusetts?
A: Yes, the forest scenes were filmed in Leverett, Massachusetts, where the sound team recorded real forest sounds to add authenticity.