Netflix’s new take on John Steinbeck’s California-set masterpiece “East of Eden” is already stirring controversy — due to the streaming giant’s decision to shoot the Salinas Valley epic over 6,000 miles away in New Zealand.
Critics blasted the decision after production transformed parts of Auckland, Dunedin and Oamaru into early 20th-century California, despite the 1952 novel’s deep roots in Steinbeck’s home state.
Furious fans flocked to X to ventin their frustrations after a trailer dropped online.
“What a deeply odd choice when the land itself is the most important character,” one wrote.
“I’m going to struggle to watch it. I lived in Salinas as a girl. The setting in this book is essential to me. It feels wrong to have it filmed elsewhere. Doesn’t feel like the same story,” lamented another.
“God, I love this book, but yeah, what a missed opportunity…” a third chimed in.
New Zealand has long lured major Hollywood productions with generous government-backed tax rebates, offering international studios up to 20% back on qualifying production costs, with additional incentives available for larger projects.
“We are sending a clear message to the world: New Zealand is the best place in the world to make movies. Bring your productions here to take advantage of our talent and locations,” Finance Minister Nicola Willis said in an official statement last year.
Filming for the “East of Eden” series began before President Trump’s announcement of 100% tariffs on films made outside the US.
When announcing the 100% tariffs this month, Trump said Hollywood was dying a “very fast death” due to incentives offered by other countries.
“I never thought I’d see the day when it would be MORE expensive to shoot a movie or TV series in L.A. than anywhere else in the country or world,” another critic griped on X.
“East of Eden” is considered one of California’s defining literary works, centered on the Salinas Valley and deeply tied to the state’s geography and identity.
The seven-episode series, starring Florence Pugh, wrapped filming in New Zealand earlier this year and is expected to debut in 2026.
While New Zealand’s rolling hills may pass for California on screen, others aren’t buying it.
