Set out on a cinematic adventure with “Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain,” a comedy that transports the fun and friendship of Ben Marshall, Martin Herlihy, and John Higgins from Saturday Night Live to the big screen. The audience is immersed in the lives of three childhood friends who are at a crossroads in their adult lives during this thrilling trip. The plot centers on the inseparable friends as they explore the difficulties of growing up, challenge social norms, and rediscover the romance of their friendship. The film’s joyfully ridiculous and absurdly crazy features keep spectators interested as it takes unexpected turns. tvacute now explores the fascinating specifics of the shooting sites, revealing the breathtaking landscapes that provide the backdrop for this masterwork of humor.
Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain Filming Locations
The visual narrative of “The Treasure of Foggy Mountain” is heavily influenced by North Carolina, specifically by the state’s beautiful scenery and wide variety of locations. The film, which was mostly filmed in state parks, makes use of North Carolina’s abundant natural beauty. The filming settings lend authenticity and complexity to the plot, from the hot summer scenes to the difficult terrains.
Foggy Mountain, a key fictional location in the film, was filmed in South Mountains State Park, Crowders Mountain State Park, and Mount Mitchell State Park. The audience is treated to a visual feast as these natural diamonds serve as the ideal setting for the trio’s search for hidden riches. The rugged terrain, wide-open vistas, and abundant vegetation of the parks add to the immersive experience of the movie.
Even more fascinating than the film itself are the behind-the-scenes stories from the “Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain” shoot. The first week of filming, according to director Paul Briganti, was “a miserable nightmare.” For the actors and crew, the difficult conditions of the North Carolina state parks—complete with ticks, snakes, and erratic weather—became an unexpected adventure. Briganti highlighted the value of filming outside despite the challenges, pointing to the authenticity it adds to the picture.
But the adventure doesn’t end there. The filmmakers also visited Charlotte, presenting a few of its well-known establishments and residential areas. The dynamic art area of NoDa serves as the backdrop for the trio’s rollerblading journey to work. The movie gains a hint of regional flair from well-known locations including Bargarita, Billy Jack’s Shack, Boudreaux’s Louisiana Kitchen, and The Evening Muse.
The scenes at Franny’s Market, which is portrayed as the community grocery shop in the film, take place in Plaza Midwood, another Charlotte area. The iconic structure that formerly held Segen Food Mart is transformed into a noteworthy location where the protagonists stop by while en route to work.
As Crunch Fitness University changes into Trout Plus—the workplace of the best buddy trio—University City gets its chance to shine. The outdoor sequences, which were filmed in the parking lot of the business, serve as a pivotal setting for the movie’s finale. Notably, Trout Plus’s interior captures the spirit of a sporting goods store, formerly Dick’s Sporting Goods at Northlake Mall.
In the film, New Hope Missionary Baptist Church becomes Pinewood Falls House of God as it ventures into East Charlotte. This is when Martin gets baptized for his love, which gives the plot a distinctive twist. The filmmakers’ inventive use of location is evident in the outside image of the church, which is actually Saint Martin De Tours Catholic Church in Louisiana.
The universe of the Foggy Mountain cult assumes a transforming role at Bost Grill Mill, located at 4701 NC-200 in Concord, NC. The painstakingly built set at Bost Grist Mill serves as a major plot point in the film and an engaging setting for the narrative.
Ultimately, toward the end of the film, John meets Ben and Martin at the diner that is Circle G Restaurant, one of Charlotte’s oldest businesses. The sequence captured within this renowned eatery, in business since 1954, gives the movie a nostalgic feel and a feeling of coherence.
“Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain” defies convention by fusing humor, camaraderie, and a treasure hunt with the mesmerizing scenery of North Carolina. From famous Charlotte districts to state parks, the filming sites were meticulously selected to create a realistic backdrop for the trio’s amusing antics. The filmmakers’ perspectives on improvisation, the difficulties of filming outside, and the filmmaking process itself add to the film’s appreciation. The movie marks a new chapter in the history of comedic picture distribution as it finds a home on Peacock.
Please Don’t Destroy: Is the Treasure of Foggy Mountain Real or Fake?
