Have you ever witnessed a movie and wished to be transported into the realm of your adored film or TV show? Even though we cannot mysteriously transport ourselves into the realm of movies, there exists a method to journey to the real destinations where numerous legendary films and TV shows were captured on camera. From ancient Middle Eastern temples to unassuming gas stations, Hollywood often chooses unique and extravagant locales for their productions. Prepare to be amazed as we unveil 10 movie settings that are surprisingly authentic, enabling you to step into the mesmerizing realm of cinema. Certain locations are even accessible to tourists, providing an opportunity to personally witness the ambiance and legacy of these places.
The unadorned state of certain locations may come as a surprise, as they appear entirely distinct from their cinematic representation, while others faithfully mirror their on-screen counterparts. Exploring these chosen places allows one to deeply comprehend and value the immense skill and artistry invested in constructing vivid settings that bring our favorite narratives to life. While exploring these genuine sites, it’s simple to picture your cherished characters venturing on their own exciting journeys in these exact locations. In the end, exploring these exceptional destinations adds a completely fresh perspective to your passion for movies and how they transport narratives into reality.
Hobbiton - The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies
Located within the captivating realm of Middle-earth, The Shire stands as a picturesque and serene homeland for the Hobbits, offering an abundance of wonder. Lush green hills, quaint gardens, and cozy dwellings form a serene beauty that attracts fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s work. To everyone’s surprise, this enchanting backdrop is not merely a construct of movie wizardry. Peter Jackson, renowned for his work onThe Lord of the RingsandThe Hobbit, transformed J.R.R. Tolkien’s imagination into a vibrant reality amidst Matamata’s picturesque landscapes in Waikato, New Zealand. With a strong commitment to authenticity, Jackson and his crew took great care in meticulously building each set for the films, leaving no detail overlooked.
At present, Hobbiton serves as a permanent attraction called the Shire that entices travelers with its picturesque Hobbit homes, inviting ambiance of the Green Dragon Inn, and an opportunity to step into the realm of Tolkien’s creative genius. As fans explore the winding paths and charming footbridges, they can imagine what it was like to reside in this peaceful realm that served as Bilbo Baggins' abode.
In addition to discovering the enchanting individual Hobbit holes, adorned with round doors and ornate decorations, guests are welcome to join guided tours that uncover the intricate history intertwined within Tolkien’s narratives. Special events held at Hobbiton include themed celebrations such as festive feasts that pay homage to Middle-earth culture, encapsulating even more magic for visitors. The franchise leavesmore to be wanted from fansso this location might return at some point.
The Overlook Hotel - The Shining (1980)
In the unsettling atmosphere of the Overlook Hotel, Stanley Kubrick masterfully portrayed his adaptation of Stephen King’sThe Shining. The captivating allure emanating from this sinister setting acts as a cornerstone in building the chilling atmosphere of the film, essentially making it a character on its own. Although filmed on location at Timberline Lodge in Mount Hood, Oregon for its exterior shots, intricate sets were built at Elstree Studios in England to capture the hotel’s interior scenes. The harmonious fusion of genuine outdoor settings and impeccably constructed indoor spaces lent an uncannily believable atmosphere to the progressing narrative.
There is a lasting feeling of tangible dread among viewers because the grandeur, eerie corridors, and blood-red bathroom were all real. This realism helped to immerse audiences in the psychological terror that gripped Jack Torrance and his family, making every shadowy corner a potential source of menace. In addition, Kubrick’s masterful direction further accentuated these physical spaces by manipulating lighting and camera angles to achieve maximum suspense and discomfort.
The commitment to storytelling and Kubrick’s artistic vision were showcased through the painstaking attention to detail paid to every set. Ultimately, this marriage of atmosphere, set design, and direction proved instrumental in creating one of cinema’s most memorable and terrifying haunted houses: the unforgettable Overlook Hotel.
Spectre - Big Fish (2004)
In the filmBig Fish, Tim Burton materialized his whimsical and imaginative ideas by creating the enchanting town of Spectre. The design of each building and prop captured every intricate detail, demonstrating Burton’s exceptional skill in transporting his audience to a magical realm. The characters in the movie Spectre brought richness to the captivating setting with their peculiar traits and unconventional traditions.
However, even after filming concluded, the set persisted as a stunning testament to Burton’s extraordinarily imaginative style. By displaying shoes hanging from a wire, the entrance sets the stage for the magical and fantastical mood that defines the movie. By offering this iconic exhibit, Spectre entices its visitors to shed their mundane realities at the door and venture into an alternate universe characterized by sheer astonishment and relentless curiosity. The weathering of time has lent an ethereal and enigmatic quality to the forsaken set, heightening the mystical allure of Burton’s creative endeavor. Apart from being visually stunning, Spectre serves as a proof of Tim Burton’s endless inventiveness, affirming that the power of artistic expression can transcend ordinary surroundings and create something exceptional.
Bates Motel - Psycho (1960)
Known asone of the bestfranchises in horror, Alfred Hitchcock’sPsychointroduced the world to the iconic Bates Motel, a place of terror and suspense. Surprisingly, the motel and the eerie house behind it were built on a Universal Studios lot in Hollywood. Today, the replica of the original Bates Motel set can be found in Aldergrove, British Columbia, where portions of thePsychoseries was filmed. The Bates Motel remains a staple of the Universal Studios backlot tour, allowing visitors to experience the chilling atmosphere firsthand.
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry - Harry Potter Series
Being a magnificentstory that changed the world, the magical world ofHarry Potteris brought to life in the iconic Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. While digital enhancements were used in some scenes, many Hogwarts locations were shot in actual places across the United Kingdom. Alnwick Castle, Gloucester Cathedral, and Durham Cathedral provided the stunning backdrops for the adventures of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Furthermore, the Great Hall, where students gathered for meals and events, was built as a real set at Leavesden Film Studios, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the magical experience.
Related:Harry Potter: The 11 Most Book-Accurate Character Portrayals in the Movies
The Grand Budapest Hotel - The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
Wes Anderson’s unique visual style and pastel-colored world were beautifully realized inThe Grand Budapest Hotel.The fictitious hotel was brought to life in an old department store in Germany, with meticulously designed spaces that made the charming yet odd hotel seem as real as the actors themselves. The detailed façade and lobby captured the essence of Anderson’s vision, inviting audiences into a whimsical and delightful world.
Related:The Grand Budapest Hotel: Hidden Meaning in the Whimsical World of Wes Anderson
The Island - Cast Away (2000)
In the filmCast Away,one of thebest survival movies, Tom Hanks finds himself stranded on a remote island after a plane crash. This island, known as Monuriki, is an uninhabited paradise located in Fiji. The untouched beauty and solitude of the island enhanced the film’s sense of isolation and survival, allowing viewers to experience the challenges faced by the protagonist. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can visit Monuriki and imagine yourself in Tom Hanks' shoes (just don’t forget to pack more than a volleyball for company).
Amity Island - Jaws (1975)
“Amity” may mean “friendship,” but in Steven Spielberg’sJaws,Amity Island was anything but friendly. The quaint New England charm portrayed in the film was actually filmed on Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. The real-life aesthetic of the town perfectly captured the sense of a close-knit community disrupted by the terror lurking beneath the waves. Today, visitors can explore the island, visit filming locations, and even take part in Jaws-themed events. The film is now renowned as aperfect summertime horror flickthat has encapsulated audiences for years.
Tatooine - Star Wars Saga
The desert planet of Tatooine, home to Luke Skywalker, may seem like a distant and fictional location. However, the sandy landscapes seen in theStar Warssaga were shot in the real-world deserts of Tunisia. The setting itself washeavily inspired byFrank Herbert’s “Dune” novel, and specifically the desert planet of Arrakis. The Lars Homestead, where Luke was raised by his aunt and uncle, was a set left to the elements after filming. Thanks to the dedication of fans, it has been restored, and parts of Tatooine have been preserved by the Tunisian government, allowing visitors to experience the magic ofStar Warsfirsthand.
The Apartments - Rear Window (1954)
Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpieceRear Windowtakes place entirely within the confines of a Greenwich Village apartment courtyard. Instead of shooting on location, Hitchcock had the entire set built inside Paramount’s Stage 18. The attention to detail was remarkable, with multiple fully-furnished apartments, a large courtyard, and a backdrop painted with the New York City skyline. This immersive set design brought the story to life, giving audiences a voyeuristic glimpse into the mysteries unfolding before their eyes.
Stepping into the world of our favorite movies is a dream for many of us. While we can’t physically enter these fictional worlds, we can visit the real-life locations where these iconic films were brought to life. From the lush pastures of Hobbiton to the chilling corridors of the Overlook Hotel, these movie settings offer a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the magic of cinema. So, pack your bags, embark on a journey, and let the silver screen come alive before your eyes.
