Eagle Rock Plaza, a seemingly unassuming shopping mall nestled in the heart of Eagle Rock, Los Angeles, has a surprising history as a popular filming location. From hit TV shows like Glee to music videos and even behind-the-scenes documentaries, this small mall has played host to a diverse range of productions. This article delves into Eagle Rock Plaza’s notable appearances on screen, highlighting its role in shaping pop culture moments.
Eagle Rock Plaza’s Star Turn in “Glee”
Eagle Rock Plaza gained significant recognition after being featured in the Season 1 episode “Dream On” of the hit musical comedy series Glee. In a memorable scene, Artie Adams, played by Kevin McHale, daydreams about dancing and launches into a flash mob performance of Men Without Hats’ “Safety Dance.” This iconic scene was filmed in the central area of Eagle Rock Plaza, between the two main escalators and in front of the Seafood City Supermarket.
Glee Flash Mob at Eagle Rock Plaza
The mall’s unique layout, with its open space and central location, provided the perfect backdrop for the energetic flash mob, allowing Artie’s dream sequence to unfold seamlessly. The scene quickly became a fan favorite, further cementing Eagle Rock Plaza’s place in television history.
Eagle Rock Plaza Interior
Beyond “Glee”: Other Notable Filming Locations at Eagle Rock Plaza
Eagle Rock Plaza’s filming history extends beyond Glee. The mall’s interior also served as a location for a Season 4 episode of the crime drama The Closer, titled “Time Bomb.” Ironically, only the interior of the mall was used for this episode, while exterior shots were filmed at Los Angeles City College.
Eagle Rock Plaza in The Closer
Music lovers might also recognize Eagle Rock Plaza from Avril Lavigne’s 2002 music video for her hit song “Complicated.” The mall’s presence in the video showcases its versatility as a filming location, adaptable to various genres and artistic styles.
Avril Lavigne at Eagle Rock Plaza
Michael Bublé’s Hilarious Encounter at Eagle Rock Plaza
Even behind-the-scenes productions have found a home at Eagle Rock Plaza. Singer Michael Bublé filmed a humorous photo shoot segment for his 2009 DVD, “The Making of Crazy Love,” in the mall’s parking lot behind Macy’s. Bublé’s comedic interactions with passersby, including a memorable “Welcome to Macy’s!” shout-out, add another layer of entertainment history to this location.
Michael Buble running at Eagle Rock Plaza
Eagle Rock Plaza: A Small Mall with a Big Screen Presence
Eagle Rock Plaza’s frequent appearances in film and television highlight its appeal as a filming location. Its manageable size, diverse architectural features, and central location in Los Angeles make it an attractive option for productions of all sizes. From iconic musical numbers to dramatic crime scenes and comedic interludes, Eagle Rock Plaza continues to contribute to the rich tapestry of entertainment history. Located at 2700 Colorado Boulevard in Eagle Rock, this unassuming mall offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of on-location filming.
