Where was Ace Ventura Pet Detective filmed?
The 1994 comedy film Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, starring Jim Carrey, is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time. The movie follows the eccentric and charismatic pet detective, Ace Ventura, as he takes on a case involving a stolen dolphin. As we delve into the making of this iconic film, we’ll explore the locations where it was filmed and uncover some fascinating behind-the-scenes secrets.
Hollywood, California
While the film’s story is set in Miami, Florida, the majority of Ace Ventura: Pet Detective was actually filmed in Hollywood, California. The exterior shots of the Ventura Detective Agency, where Ace runs his business, were filmed on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. This iconic street is known for its luxury shops and upscale atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for Ace’s eccentric office.
Miami, Florida (stand-ins)
Although the main filming locations were in California, some exterior scenes were shot on location in Miami, Florida. The Miami International Airport, where Ace meets Ray Finkle, was filmed at the actual airport in Miami. Additionally, some scenes were shot in Wynwood, a vibrant arts district in Miami, which added to the film’s colorful and eccentric atmosphere.
Soundstages and Studios
Much of the film was shot on soundstages and in studios in Hollywood, California. The film’s iconic opening scene, where Ace is introduced dancing with a group of monkeys, was filmed on a soundstage. The scenes where Ace investigates the murder of Snowflake the dolphin were also shot on a soundstage, with green screen used to add the Miami backdrop later in post-production.
Other Locations
Some other notable locations where Ace Ventura: Pet Detective was filmed include:
• Santa Monica Pier, California – where Ace and Snowflake’s owner, Lois, have a romantic dinner
• Venice Beach, California – where Ace and Lois take a romantic stroll
• La Brea Tar Pits, California – where Ace and Snowflake’s killer, Spike, are chased by the police
Behind-the-Scenes Secrets
Here are some fascinating behind-the-scenes secrets about the making of Ace Ventura: Pet Detective:
• Jim Carrey’s Improvisation: Jim Carrey is known for his improvisational skills, and Ace Ventura: Pet Detective is no exception. He improvised many of Ace’s iconic lines and mannerisms, which added to the film’s comedic charm.
• The Dolphins: The film’s dolphin, Snowflake, was played by six trained dolphins. The filming process was challenging, with the dolphins requiring regular breaks and special care.
• The Costume Department: The film’s costume designer, Mary Vogt, created over 1,000 costumes for the film, including Ace’s iconic orange jumpsuit.
Conclusion
Ace Ventura: Pet Detective is a beloved comedy classic that has become a staple of 90s pop culture. From its colorful characters to its wacky plot twists, the film is a joy to watch. By exploring the locations where it was filmed, we’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the making of this iconic film. Whether you’re a fan of Jim Carrey or just love a good comedy, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective is a must-see.
Timeline of Filming Locations
Location | Date |
---|---|
Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills | August 1993 |
Miami International Airport | September 1993 |
Wynwood, Miami | October 1993 |
Soundstages and Studios, Hollywood | August-October 1993 |
Santa Monica Pier | September 1993 |
Venice Beach | October 1993 |
La Brea Tar Pits | October 1993 |
Film Facts
• Budget: $15 million
• Box Office: $107.2 million
• Runtime: 97 minutes
• Rating: PG-13
• Sequels: Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls (1995)