On a vibrant fall morning, a black truck speeds down a picturesque road, narrowly escaping a collision with an oncoming SUV. The truck attempts a daring escape, ultimately crashing into a nearby pine tree after being boxed in by another vehicle. This dramatic sequence is not part of a Hollywood production but was captured in the beautiful forests of coastal North Carolina, serving as the backdrop for Kevin Williamson’s new crime drama, The Waterfront.
The series, inspired by true events, is being filmed exclusively in Wilmington, North Carolina, a location where Williamson has previously created several iconic projects, including the groundbreaking film Scream in 1996. Reflecting on his deep connection to the region, Williamson expressed, “I love North Carolina. I would shoot everything here if I could.”
As Williamson walks along the Southport waterfront, he reminisces about significant shooting locations tied to his past works. From the dock that hosted heartfelt conversations in Dawson’s Creek to the beloved eatery from I Know What You Did Last Summer, these sites are not just filming locations but integral parts of Williamson’s creative history. The house featured in The Waterfront serves as a pivotal setting for the characters Peyton (Danielle Campbell) and Jenna (Humberly González), showcasing the show’s maturity and depth compared to his earlier works. Williamson describes The Waterfront as a “reflection, it’s nostalgic,” and a more adult-themed narrative.
The story at the heart of The Waterfront draws heavily from Williamson’s own family history. Character Harlan Buckley (Holt McCallany) mirrors Williamson’s father, who faced a dire financial situation in the 1980s, leading him to make difficult choices, though, unlike Harlan, he was not part of organized crime. Williamson’s father turned to smuggling on his fishing trawler, an experience that deeply impacted Williamson’s life.
Casting the role of Harlan was a challenge for Williamson, who humorously remarked about the pressure of finding the right fit. McCallany’s performance resonates well with the writer, who emphasized the importance of honoring his family’s story, saying, “I knew it was a deeply personal story for Kevin.”
Throughout the series, the connection between the characters and Williamson’s life is profound. For example, a chilling shark encounter in Episode 1 originates from Williamson’s childhood memory. As he recounts, witnessing sharks while on a boat trip left a lasting impression on him, one he felt compelled to translate into a dramatic scene.
The cast of The Waterfront has also discovered bits of Williamson within each character. Melissa Benoist, who plays Bree Buckley, shared how Williamson’s vulnerability and openness about his experiences motivated the cast to bring authenticity to their roles. The camaraderie built during filming, characterized by regular group dinners and shared locations from past projects, has given the cast a strong bond and appreciation for Wilmington, affectionately dubbed “Not Dawson’s Creek” by their group chat.
With the first season of The Waterfront now available for streaming, Williamson expresses pride in sharing a personal aspect of his upbringing with a larger audience. He acknowledges the challenges of production but finds immense joy in witnessing the culmination of the cast’s performances. Williamson’s connection to his roots and the local landscape enhances the authenticity of the series, promising a compelling viewing experience for audiences everywhere.