Filming for the new Apple TV+ series Bad Monkey presented real-life challenges typical of Florida's unique environment. From unpredictable wildlife to the sweltering humidity, the cast and crew made adjustments constantly.
Vince Vaughn stars as Andrew Yancy, the lead character, who faces oddities and threats from both nature and the city. Amidst the chaos, one standout feature was the constant presence of local wildlife, including key deer, who, much to the crew's amusement, sometimes wandered directly onto the set.
Developed by Bill Lawrence, known for his acclaimed work on Ted Lasso, Bad Monkey aims to portray the authentic spirit of Florida. Written from Carl Hiaasen's best-selling novel, the series navigates themes of crime, fraud, and rural absurdities.
"Feeling authentically Florida and a little sweaty and dirty, it really mattered," said Lawrence, emphasizing his dedication to capturing the state's essence. The filming locations ranged from the vibrant streets of Miami to the picturesque Keys, each chosen to reflect Hiaasen's vivid descriptions.
The decision to film entirely on location was personal for Lawrence, who has deep roots in Florida. His connection influenced his creative vision, as he was determined to deliver the richness of the state's landscapes and cultures.
Hiaasen himself noted, “There’s nowhere in California...that looks like [Florida].” His strong insistence on filming locally stemmed from frustrations with prior adaptations of his work.
Filming scenes intended to capture the Keys' natural beauty was filled with surprises. Unexpected interruptions were common, with marine life like manatees making unplanned cameo appearances, enriching the on-screen authenticity.
But not everything was smooth sailing; challenges emerged due to Florida's notorious weather. Lawrence noted, "We shut down every eight minutes because all the storm stuff is real,” pointing out the difficulties of shooting in such unpredictable conditions.
Actor Alex Moffat, known for his stint on Saturday Night Live, recalled humorous moments during filming. "Go back to the woods...”, he shouted at deer who kept invading their scenes, blending scripted comedy with the spontaneity of real life.
Interviewed about their experiences, cast members expressed their appreciation for the raw, natural settings. Natalie Martinez, who portrays the character Bonnie, remarked, "You can’t fake humidity; it affects how you look and feel on set!"
Filmmakers embraced the moist atmosphere, acknowledging how it brought their performances to life. "I act better when it’s happening around me," said Meredith Hagner, adding to the sense of authenticity they strived for.
With costumes and props facing adverse weather, continuity became another hurdle. “We had to adjust constantly due to the sweat and humidity—it was quite the experience,” reflected production designer Tim Galvin.
The interactions with Florida's wildlife didn't just disrupt scenes; they brought unexpected moments of levity. Vaughn shared his admiration for the local fauna, commenting on how the deer seemed to thrive on set, causing laughter among crew members.
“They were method,” Vaughn joked about the adorable nuisance the deer presented, ever-present munchers on set. This strange companionship only added to the quirky narrative surrounding the project.
While animals proved to be both amusing and distracting, the elements shaped the quality of the series. Lawrence remained committed to authentic storytelling, ensuring the environment played its part, for better or worse.
Creators aimed for Bad Monkey to resonate with both fans of Hiaasen's books and newcomers. With ten episodes planned, the series promises to unravel the convoluted case Yancy encounters, enriched by the backdrop of Florida’s vivid landscapes.
Beyond the comedic blend of crime and chaos, the show introduces quirky characters and unexpected friendships. Each episode intends to peel back the layers of absurdity central to Hiaasen's stories.
For fans of witty storytelling and bold visuals, Bad Monkey offers an immersive experience deeply linked to its Florida roots. The team behind the project has set out to not just entertain, but to celebrate the untamed spirit of the state, including its unique animals.
Wrapping up their experiences, cast members and crew remained optimistic about the final product. Many felt their time filming had been distinct from any previous shoots, notwithstanding the sweat and wildlife hurdles they’d faced together.
This whimsical yet gritty depiction of life and crime in Florida illuminates not just the allure of this peculiar state but the creativity sparked by such vibrant settings. Premiering on Apple TV+ August 14, viewers are set to enjoy the escapades of Yancy and his unpredictable world.
Likewise, Jim Morrison's unexpected connections to Florida resurfaced recently with the discovery of archival footage. A 1964 promotional film from Florida State University featured Morrison as he was before his rise to stardom.
One year before he became frontman for the iconic rock band The Doors, the emerging artist displayed his charm for the camera. This glimpse offers fans insight—one they never anticipated—from his formative years at FSU.
Before The Doors: Jim Morrison’s Early Role, for many, represents the beginnings of his enigmatic persona, as engaging as Bad Monkey aims to be. Morrison embodied the mix of artistic fervor and intrigue, much like the Florida backdrop of his story.
Much like the vibrant storytelling of Bad Monkey, Morrison's early film captures curiosity and provides layers of depth to his character. Both celebrate the unpredictable essence of Florida, showcasing the spirit of creativity born from raw, natural beauty.