Where was the Movie Young Guns Filmed?
Released in 1988, Young Guns is a Western drama film directed by Christopher Cain and starring Emilio Estevez, Kiefer Sutherland, Lou Diamond Phillips, and Charlie Sheen. The movie is loosely based on the real-life events of Billy the Kid and Doc Scurlock, and it follows their adventures as they join William H. Bonney, also known as Billy the Kid, in his battle against the corrupt and brutal Sheriff Brady.
On-Location Filming
Young Guns was primarily filmed on location in New Mexico, with some scenes also shot in Arizona and Utah. The production team chose to film in these states because of their rugged and diverse landscapes, which provided the perfect backdrop for the movie’s Western setting.
Major Filming Locations
The following are some of the most significant filming locations used in Young Guns:
| Location | What was filmed there? |
|---|---|
| Santa Fe, New Mexico | The city’s historic downtown area was used as the setting for the town of Lincoln, where Billy and his gang take refuge from the Sheriff. |
| Lincoln, New Mexico | The entire town was used as the main setting for the film, with many scenes filmed on location in the actual town. |
| Taos, New Mexico | The town’s historic adobe buildings were used as the setting for the Kid’s hideout. |
| Ghost Ranch, New Mexico | This ranch was used as the location for many of the film’s most iconic scenes, including the showdown between Billy and Brady. |
| Moab, Utah | The scenic landscapes of Moab were used as the setting for the film’s opening scenes, which follow Billy and his gang as they escape from the law. |
| Havasupai, Arizona | The breathtaking waterfalls and canyons of Havasupai were used as the setting for the film’s final showdown between Billy and Brady. |
Indoor Filming Locations
While the majority of Young Guns was filmed on location, some scenes were shot indoors using soundstages and studio sets. Paramount Pictures Studios, located in Los Angeles, California, was used to film many of the interior scenes, including the jail cells, saloons, and ranch houses.
Production Challenges
Filming Young Guns was not without its challenges. The production team faced numerous logistical issues, including harsh weather conditions, limited access to remote locations, and the need to recreate historic events and locations. Despite these challenges, the end result was a film that has become a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of the best Westerns of all time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Young Guns was primarily filmed on location in New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah, with some scenes also shot at Paramount Pictures Studios in California. The film’s producers chose these locations for their unique landscapes and historic charm, which added to the movie’s authenticity and grit. If you’re a fan of Westerns or are simply interested in movie history, a visit to these filming locations is definitely worth considering.
