Brightburn, a town featured in the horror sci-fi film directed by David Yarovesky, serves as a crucial element of the narrative. Although set in Kansas, Brightburn is entirely fictional. It revolves around Brandon Breyer, a child from another world, who uncovers his menacing abilities after growing up in this rural community.
Real-Life Inspirations Behind Brightburn’s Kansas Setting
The creators of Brightburn, Brian and Mark Gunn, designed the town to reflect the impact of Brandon’s dark evolution on a closely-knit community. Brightburn shares thematic similarities with iconic fictional towns, especially Smallville—the well-known hometown of Superman.
- Similarities with Smallville: Both towns embody a pastoral ambiance and close community dynamics.
- Role Reversal: Unlike typical hero narratives, Brightburn imagines a town influenced by a darker force.
According to Brian Gunn, the filmmakers aimed to challenge traditional superhero tropes. They pondered, “What if this baby grew up to be something far more sinister?” This approach showcases a distinct departure from the classic hero narrative.
Filming Locations
Despite its Kansas setting, the filming of Brightburn took place in Georgia. The production utilized several towns to create a suitable Midwestern aesthetic.
- Newnan: Scenes depicting the Breyer family home were filmed at a historic property.
- Stockbridge: The former Patrick Henry High School served as a backdrop for Brightburn Eagles school scenes.
- Jonesboro: Contributed to the overall Midwestern vibe of the film.
Thematic Elements and Cultural Cues
The film’s title, Brightburn, may draw inspiration from actual small towns in Kansas, like Burns or Burrton. However, it has no formal connection to these places. Instead, the name and attributes of Brightburn were meticulously crafted to reinforce the story’s themes.
Ultimately, Brightburn encapsulates a fictional blend of small-town Kansas ethos, explored through a dark horror lens. The filmmakers aimed to create a believable backdrop that enhances the psychological tension of the narrative, further engaging the audience.
