Action movies just aren’t what they used to be, you know? Back in the day, they had all the elements that made them truly great: amazing actors, jaw-dropping stunts, unforgettable one-liners, and none of that excessive CGI that’s everywhere these days. Seriously, it’s like everywhere you look, there’s CGI overload!
Oh, and while we’re at it, can you please get off my lawn? Thanks!
But let’s get back to those classic action flicks. One of the coolest things about them was that they were filmed in various locations, not just in the Hollywood bubble. Yep, some of these gems were actually shot outside of Los Angeles! It’s mind-blowing, I know.
Now, I’ve got something interesting to share with you. Thanks to satellite technology, we can take a peek at a few of these classic action movie locations. How cool is that? So, hold on tight, ’cause here come some examples as seen from high above. And let me tell you, seeing these iconic spots from a bird’s-eye view is like stepping into a whole new world!
First up, we have a breathtaking view of a city skyline that was once the backdrop for an explosive car chase. The narrow streets and towering buildings create an electrifying atmosphere, as if you can almost hear the screeching tires and feel the adrenaline pumping through your veins. It’s like being part of the action without leaving your seat!
Next, let’s soar over a massive mountain range that served as the ultimate battleground for an epic fight sequence. The sheer grandeur of the peaks and the rugged terrain make you appreciate the dedication of the filmmakers and the incredible physicality of the actors. It’s nature’s own action set, and it’s simply awe-inspiring!
And finally, let’s take a quick detour to a picturesque beach where a daring rescue mission unfolded. The crystal-clear waters and golden sands create a serene backdrop for the heart-stopping action that took place here. It’s a juxtaposition of beauty and danger that adds an extra layer of excitement to the scene.
So there you have it, a glimpse into the world of classic action movies through the lens of satellite technology. It’s like being a secret spy, uncovering hidden treasures and discovering the magic behind these legendary films. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll go back to protecting my lawn from any unwanted intruders. Cheers to the golden age of action cinema!
1. Clash of the Titans’ – Gozo Island, Malta
The original 1981 version of Clash of the Titans, while supposedly taking place in ancient Greece, was actually filmed in various locations. These included England, Spain, Italy, and Malta. In particular, the intense showdown between Perseus and the fearsome Kraken was captured at a stunning spot known as Azure Window. This dramatic natural arch, located on the picturesque island of Gozo in Malta, provided the perfect backdrop for the climactic scene.
2. The Last of the Mohicans’ – Chimney Rock, NC
Last of the Mohicans takes place in upstate New York, close to the Adirondacks. However, Michael Mann’s 1992 adaptation was mostly shot in North Carolina. One of the most exciting parts of the movie, the chase and battle scene where Hawkeye, Chingachgook, and Uncas go after the wicked Magua, was filmed in the stunning Chimney Rock, NC.
3. Predator’ – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
The jungle scenes of Predator were actually filmed just a short half-hour drive away from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. It’s pretty cool because now that area has turned into a tourist attraction. And get this, they even have a statue of the Predator there!
4. Die Hard’ – Fox Plaza, Los Angeles, CA
Die Hard’s “Nakatomi Plaza” is actually Fox Plaza, a skyscraper right next to the 20th Century Fox movie lot in Los Angeles’s Century City. Can you believe it? The building was still fresh off the construction site when they started shooting the film. They utilized both the outside and inside of the building for the production. Trust me, if you’re ever cruising around LA, you won’t be able to overlook Fox Plaza.
5. Starship Troopers’ – Hell’s Half-Acre, WY
In the final scenes of Starship Troopers (1997), the humans make their way to the Bugs’ homeworld of Klendathu. After an intense and dangerous battle, they manage to capture a crucial “Brain Bug.” But did you know that the filmmakers chose Wyoming as the setting for this arachnid-infested wasteland? Yes, you heard it right! Specifically, these Klendathu scenes were shot in an area known as Hell’s Half-Acre.
Wyoming provided the perfect backdrop to depict the treacherous terrain of Klendathu. The filmmakers sought a location that would resemble a desolate planet overrun by arachnids, and Hell’s Half-Acre fit the bill.
This unique area in Wyoming served as an ideal stand-in for the Bugs’ homeworld. Its rugged and eerie landscape, characterized by deep crevices, rocky formations, and barren expanses, created a convincing arachnid-infested wasteland. The filmmakers skillfully transformed Hell’s Half-Acre into the otherworldly realm of Klendathu for the climactic scenes of the movie.
So, next time you watch Starship Troopers and marvel at the sheer intensity of the battle on Klendathu, remember that this captivating arachnid-infested world was brought to life right here on Earth, in the mesmerizing backdrop of Hell’s Half-Acre in Wyoming.
6. Heat’ – 444 Flower St., Los Angeles
The bank heist scene in Michael Mann’s Heat, which gained significant fame, was shot on Fifth Street in downtown Los Angeles. The exterior of the bank was actually filmed at a building located at 444 Flower St. After that, the action shifted to various nearby locations.
7. Speed’ – Rose And Main, Venice, CA
In the movie Speed, Keanu Reeves finds himself just casually grabbing a cup of coffee when a bus goes kaboom right behind him. Crazy, right? Well, believe it or not, this explosive scene was actually shot at the intersection of Rose Avenue and Main Street in Venice, CA. And guess what? If you pay close attention, you’ll catch a glimpse of this downright peculiar sculpture called the “Ballerina Clown” overseeing the whole intersection. Talk about a memorable opening to a movie!
8. RoboCop’ – Dallas, TX
Did you know that Old Detroit in RoboCop was actually mostly Dallas? Yeah, they filmed a lot of the movie in Texas. Remember that scene where RoboCop takes on some bad guys? Well, it was actually shot in a parking lot at the intersection of Main Street and North Cesar Chavez Boulevard.
9. RoboCop’ – Dallas, TX
