The film was shot primarily in the state of Louisiana, USA, where the atmosphere of the pre-emancipation South was authentically recreated. Principal photography took place in the vicinity of New Orleans on real historical plantations and authentic rural areas. The use of natural landscapes, architectural details, and local sets allowed for an accurate portrayal of living conditions of that time, enhancing the emotional impact of the film.

Filming Locations:

Felicity Plantation

In the Film

Scene where Solomon Northup builds a garden house on the plantation of his sadistic and cruel master Epps.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Felicity is a sister plantation to St. Joseph Plantation and was built around 1846 (or 1850) by Valcour Aime as a wedding gift for his daughter, Felicite Emma, and her husband, Septime Fortier, who was also her cousin.

Bocage Plantation

In the Film

Scene where Patsey visits Mistress Shaw on a neighboring plantation. Solomon Northup comes to pick her up.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Bocage is considered the finest and most original interpretation of American Greek Revival architecture in the country, a historic treasure not to be missed. The magnificent mansion with a rich history connected to Christopher Columbus and the early colonization of America was designed by renowned architect James Dakin and built in 1837.

Magnolia Plantation

In the Film

Scene where The home of William Ford, the man who buys Solomon Northup before selling him to the sadist Edwin Epps.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Magnolia Plantation is one of the oldest plantations in the southern United States. The plantation was founded in 1676. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.