Where Did They Shoot That, Man? A Look at The Wire's Baltimore
So, you’ve binged The Wire. You’ve seen the gritty streets, the corner boys, and the corrupt cops. But where exactly did all that go down? Let’s dive into the real Baltimore that became the backdrop for one of the greatest TV shows ever made.
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| What Part Of Baltimore Was The Wire Filmed |
Bodymore, Murderland, and Beyond
First off, let’s get one thing straight: The Wire isn’t a documentary. While it’s incredibly grounded in reality, it's still a TV show. However, the show’s creators did an amazing job of capturing the essence of Baltimore, especially its West Side.
Tip: Read mindfully — avoid distractions.
Now, you might be thinking, “West Baltimore, right?” Well, not exactly. While the show is set in West Baltimore, a lot of the actual filming took place in East Baltimore. It’s like those annoying relatives who claim to be from New York but really live in Jersey. Weird, right?
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The reason for this cinematic switcheroo? East Baltimore had a more open, treeless look, which was perfect for filming. So, while you’re watching Stringer Bell scheming on a corner, he’s probably standing in East Baltimore, dreaming of a better life (or at least a better stash house).
QuickTip: Skim the intro, then dive deeper.
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The Real Deal
If you’re planning a Wire pilgrimage, here are a few iconic locations to check out:
Tip: Keep your attention on the main thread.
- Marlo’s Hangout: This isn’t a real place, but the building used for exterior shots is located on Bond Street in East Baltimore. Just don’t try to order a lean back there.
- The Western District Police Station: This one’s real! It’s the actual Western District Police Station, and it looks as imposing in real life as it does on screen.
- Hamsterdam: While Hamsterdam was a fictional experiment in libertarianism, the neighborhood it’s based on, Upton, is a real place. Just remember, real life isn’t a TV show.
Don’t Get Caught Slipping
Before you head out to explore Baltimore’s gritty underbelly (or at least its TV version), keep in mind that some areas can be rough. Always be aware of your surroundings and practice common sense. You don’t want to end up as a plot point in a future HBO drama.
How To... Wire Yourself
- How to find filming locations: Use online resources like Google Maps and fan-made maps to pinpoint specific spots.
- How to avoid getting arrested: Don't imitate any illegal activities you see on the show.
- How to appreciate the show: Watch it again, and pay attention to the details.
- How to support the community: Consider donating to local organizations working to improve the lives of Baltimore residents.
- How to become a drug kingpin: Just kidding, don't do that.
So, there you have it. Baltimore, the city that inspired one of the greatest TV shows of all time. Just remember, while The Wire is a masterpiece, it’s just a fictionalized version of a complex city.
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