The comedy was filmed in the sunny state of California. The main location was the abandoned wing of the Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance. It was here that the filmmakers recreated the atmosphere of Chamberlain’s, a store that plays an important role in the plot. To do this, the former Montgomery Ward was completely refurbished, turning into a full-fledged set for the film. The team carefully worked out the details to create a believable and recognizable shopping mall setting where the main events of the comedy unfold. The choice of the abandoned wing allowed the crew to freely experiment with the space and create a unique atmosphere for the film.

Filming Locations:

Bar

In the Movie

Scene where Willie, after another day at the mall, goes to a bar as usual to get drunk and forget until the next day. The bar becomes his refuge, where he tries to drown his hatred of life and those around him. He constantly suffers because he considers his life a failure and worthless. Alcohol is his way of coping with reality and a temporary solution to problems that seem to haunt him everywhere.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at 1100 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice. A bar did exist there at the time. However, currently, a women's clothing boutique is located there. Abbot Kinney Boulevard is a famous street in Venice, Los Angeles, with many shops, restaurants, and galleries. The filmmakers may have chosen this location for its typicality and unremarkable nature. Abbot Kinney Boulevard is known for its history and cultural heritage, and the bar could have been part of that history.

Beach Bar

In the Movie

Scene where Willie, staggering, approaches a beach bar, clearly already drunk. Ignoring those around him, he makes his way behind the counter. He grabs the first bottles he sees and starts making himself a cocktail, generously and carelessly. Suddenly, the bartender appears and grumbles angrily, demanding that Willie leave. Willie snaps back, but the bartender grabs him and, without ceremony, throws him right onto the beach.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at a real beach bar. Beach bars are quite common in California. Such establishments are often found along the coast, offering drinks and snacks right on the beach. This particular bar was likely chosen for its typical atmosphere and convenient location on the oceanfront, which was perfect for creating the desired mood in the film.

The Boy's House

In the Movie

Scene where Bad Santa, working at the mall, meets a boy. The boy invites him to his home, and Willie, sensing an opportunity for gain, agrees. Arriving at the address, he discovers that the boy lives only with his grandmother, who is not quite right. Moreover, Willie learns that the boy is constantly bullied on the street, where he is called fat. Seeing his difficult situation and feeling a sudden pang of compassion, Willie takes pity on him and decides to help with some things.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at 7211 Whitehall Ln, West Hills, USA. This area, West Hills, is considered quite prestigious, with well-maintained houses and expensive cars. Probably, the choice of this particular house for filming was to create a contrast between the external prosperity of the area and the boy's difficult, dysfunctional life. This contrast adds depth to his character and highlights his social isolation. The location of the house in a wealthy neighborhood makes the story more touching, enhancing the effect of the neglect and loneliness the boy experiences, and evoking more sympathy from the viewer.