In a bold narrative move, “Pluribus” has left Albuquerque, New Mexico, behind in its latest episode, transporting viewers to the vibrant city of Las Vegas, Nevada. Here, a reunion between the characters Carol, played by Rhea Seehorn, and Mr. Diabaté, portrayed by Samba Schutte, unfolds, setting the stage for the episode’s emotional beats. However, it’s the next episode that takes fans on a risky and adventurous journey, as Manousos, played by Carlos-Manuel Vesga, decides to embark on a perilous trek, leaving his life in Paraguay far behind.
In the much-anticipated Episode 7, titled “The Gap,” audience speculation peaks with the revelation that Manousos will navigate a treacherous path, leading many to wonder if this means tackling The Darién Gap—the infamous and dangerous stretch of jungle that separates Panama and Colombia. Indeed, Manousos’ journey does take him through this challenging terrain. Viewers watching his harrowing journey through towns, winding roads, mountains, and bodies of water may find themselves questioning the filming locations that brought this captivating episode to life.
Creator Vince Gilligan shared insights about the show’s filming locations, revealing that alongside the familiar Albuquerque and Las Vegas settings, the crew ventured to Northern Spain and the Canary Islands. The scenery in Episode 7 features the picturesque old town streets and breathtaking landscapes characteristic of these locations. Specifically, one of the filming hotspots appears to be La Palma, one of the islands in the Canary archipelago, known for its lush beauty.
For the scenes representing the intimidating Darién Gap, the production embraced the natural landscapes available in Spain. Notable filming locations included Bosque de Los Tilos, a forest in La Palma that boasts rich greenery and hiking trails, as well as Cubo de La Galga, a popular trail offering awe-inspiring views of forests and mountains. These locales helped convey the jungle ambiance essential for Manousos’ daunting trek.
The episode also sheds light on the notorious chunga palms, known scientifically as astrocaryum standleyanum. These trees are indigenous to rainforests across Central and South America, and they become a significant plot point when Manousos encounters them. The spiny exteriors of the chunga palms pose a real danger; with spines that can grow up to 20 centimeters long, they can inflict painful injuries leading to severe infections. In a tense moment during his adventure, Manousos becomes injured by these trees, showcasing the very real threats he faces on his journey.
Carol’s storyline runs parallel to Manousos’, but in a different, more scenic direction. As he navigates the dangers of the jungle, she enjoys exploring various attractions in New Mexico. Locations like Jemez Springs in Sandoval County and the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe feature prominently in her narrative, ultimately reconnecting with the vibrant culture and art of her home state.
With new episodes premiering every Friday on Apple TV, “Pluribus” continues to captivate viewers with its rich storytelling and stunning visuals, offering a blend of emotional depth and thrilling adventure that leaves audiences eager for more. As more behind-the-scenes interviews are released, fans will likely uncover further details about the filming locations and the creative choices that shape this captivating series.
