How the Billionaire Lifestyle in Park City Sparked a New Movie by the Creator of Succession
The Intersection of Real Estate and Film
In the world of film, the adage that “location, location, location” is paramount rings more true than ever. This principle is beautifully illustrated in the recent release of Mountainhead, a dark comedy crafted by Jesse Armstrong, the brilliant mind behind Succession. This cinematic gem was filmed in the opulent surroundings of a mansion in Park City, Utah—an estate that not only provides a stunning backdrop but also serves as a critical character within the narrative itself.
The Narrative: A Luxurious Get-Together Gone Awry
Set to premiere on HBO, Mountainhead follows the tale of four tech moguls, including three multibillionaires and their half-billionaire host, during what is intended to be a lavish guys’ weekend in the majestic Utah mountains. However, the atmosphere shifts dramatically when news of global upheaval—stirred by misinformation from a social media platform owned by the wealthiest mogul (played by Cory Michael Smith)—invades their retreat.
Smith’s character, Venis (pronounced “Venice”), finds himself grappling with the fallout while striving to convince his rival, Jeff (played by Ramy Youssef), to sell his new AI system that promises to be less politically harmful. The elder of the group, Randall (portrayed by Steve Carell), contemplates how they might exploit the ensuing chaos for personal gain, while Souper (played by Jason Schwartzman), the house’s less-wealthy owner, pitches an ill-fated meditation app.
A Timely Production
The urgency of current events is palpable throughout the film, as Armstrong wrote the script in just a few weeks before filming commenced in March. Notably, the film’s release date coincides with the final day of eligibility for this year’s Emmy Awards, adding another layer of intrigue to its debut.
The Character of Mountainhead Mansion
At the heart of the story lies the sprawling Mountainhead mansion located at 3566 W. Crestwood Court in the prestigious Deer Crest neighborhood. This architectural marvel, once listed at a staggering $65 million, redefines luxury living in Utah. Spanning 21,000 square feet, it includes an NBA-regulation basketball court, a two-lane bowling alley, and a towering climbing wall—all of which are ingeniously woven into the film’s narrative.
However, perhaps the most lavish trait of the estate—a private ski gondola—remains unseen in the film, further emphasizing the allure and mystique of the billionaire lifestyle.
Macall Polay // HBO
Park City: The Perfect Backdrop
The Charm of the Location
During a series of interviews, the cast shared insights on how the charming ambiance of Park City influenced their performances and the overall spirit of the film.
Schwartzman remarked, “The first thing I thought when I walked into the house was, ‘Which is the first floor?’” showcasing the mansion’s bewildering layout. Youssef added an intriguing perspective, highlighting the “luxe isolationism” that underscores the stakes in a story about the super-rich and their disconnect from global issues.
A Scenic Retreat from Reality
“Park City is adorable, and these people are not,” quipped Smith, emphasizing the contrast between the locale’s quaint charm and the characters’ morally ambiguous motivations. Carell echoed this sentiment, stating, “If I could film everything in Park City, I would,” expressing a genuine fondness for the area’s beauty and hospitality.
Immersing in the Billionaire Experience
Crafting Authentic Characters
In discussing how the mansion influenced their portrayals, the actors highlighted that, for their characters, the luxury surrounding them was both ordinary and unremarkable.
Carell noted, “My character is very passé about all of it. None of the trappings mean anything, really…” revealing how the surreal opulence adds layers to the characters’ psychological complexities. Armstrong’s vision was clear: for the ultra-wealthy, engagement with their environment is defined by a “numbness” to grandeur.
The House as a Symbol
The expansive emptiness surrounding the mansion also serves as a haunting metaphor for isolation. Schwartzman encapsulated this notion beautifully: “It has a feeling like it’s the only home there, at the top of the mountain. It has an unobstructed view, which I always found haunting in the movie.”
Moreover, the mansion’s numerous, diverse shooting locations effectively encapsulate the various vibes and moods crucial to storytelling. Carell aptly described it as “their bunker”, allowing characters to grow increasingly detached from the world outside.
Macall Polay // HBO
The Last Word
As the world gears up for Mountainhead’s release, it’s clear that the mansion isn’t simply a backdrop—it’s an intricate part of the film’s narrative and a striking reflection of modern wealth and privilege. In an era where social media often distorts reality, Mountainhead dares to delve into the complexities of responsibility among the super-rich against the stunning and stark beauty of Park City, Utah.
For more on this intriguing project, check out the Salt Lake Tribune and stay tuned for the cinematic exploration of life at the top.
