Challenges of Filming in Florida
- Shooting a new Carl Hiaasen adaptation in Florida involves humidity and critters.
- Producers navigated through the challenges to accurately bring the story to life.
- Despite obstacles, filming in the Sunshine State was deemed necessary for authenticity.
Producers of the upcoming Apple TV+ series "Bad Monkey," based on Carl Hiaasen's novel, have embraced the challenges of filming in Florida, known for its high humidity and diverse wildlife. Bill Lawrence, a longtime fan of Hiaasen, has taken on the project, aiming to authentically capture the essence of the Sunshine State, which is characterized by its stunning natural beauty and quirky, often chaotic, local culture. The series features actor Alex Moffat, known for his role on "Saturday Night Live," who encountered unexpected interruptions during filming. A Key deer, an endangered species native to the Florida Keys, repeatedly wandered into scenes, prompting Moffat to ad-lib lines not originally scripted. This spontaneity reflects the unpredictable nature of both the filming environment and Hiaasen's storytelling style. Filming in Florida presents unique challenges, including limited film infrastructure and a lack of tax incentives, which often deter productions from choosing the state as a backdrop. However, Lawrence was determined to shoot on location, particularly for scenes set in the Keys, to maintain the authenticity of the narrative and its setting. As "Bad Monkey" prepares for its release, the production team hopes to showcase not only Hiaasen's signature humor and crime drama but also the vibrant and sometimes wild character of Florida itself, making it a standout addition to the streaming platform.