Where was Mchale’s Navy filmed?
Mchale’s Navy is a classic American comedy film released in 1964, starring Ernest Borgnine and Bob Crane. The movie tells the story of a mischievous and unconventional sailor, Lieutenant Commander Quinton McHale, who leads a group of rebels against the Japanese during World War II. If you’re a fan of the film, you might be curious to know where the movie was filmed. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the filming locations of Mchale’s Navy.
Filming Locations
The movie was primarily filmed in Malibu, California, and Catalina Island, which is located off the coast of Los Angeles. The production team chose these locations due to their picturesque beaches, rugged coastline, and accessibility. Here’s a breakdown of the specific locations used in the film:
| Location | Scene |
|---|---|
| Malibu Beach | Exterior shots of McHale’s Navy’s base |
| Catalina Island | Scenes featuring the Japanese invasion, battles, and island exploration |
| Warner Bros. Studios | Interior scenes, such as the naval base, headquarters, and living quarters |
| Lake Sherwood | Scenes featuring the rebels’ hideout and hide-and-seek games |
Malibu Beach
Malibu Beach was the primary location for the film’s exterior scenes. The production team used the beach to capture the naval base’s exterior shots, including the iconic McHale’s Navy sign. The beach’s scenic views and rugged coastline provided the perfect backdrop for the movie’s action-packed scenes.
Catalina Island
Catalina Island, located approximately 22 miles off the coast of Los Angeles, was used to film the Japanese invasion, battles, and island exploration scenes. The island’s unique landscape, including its rugged terrain, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches, added to the movie’s authenticity. The production team also used the island’s Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden as a filming location.
Warner Bros. Studios
Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California, was used for interior scenes, such as the naval base, headquarters, and living quarters. The studio’s soundstages and backlot provided a controlled environment for filming, allowing the production team to capture precise shots and control the lighting.
Lake Sherwood
Lake Sherwood, a private lake in Ventura County, California, was used to film scenes featuring the rebels’ hideout and hide-and-seek games. The lake’s serene surroundings and secluded nature made it an ideal location for capturing the movie’s more lighthearted moments.
Conclusion
Mchale’s Navy was filmed primarily in Malibu, California, and Catalina Island, with additional scenes shot at Warner Bros. Studios and Lake Sherwood. The combination of these locations brought the movie’s unique blend of action, comedy, and adventure to life. If you’re a fan of the film, a visit to these locations might be a fun and educational experience. Who knows, you might even spot some of the original filming locations still intact today!
Additional Fun Facts
• Ernest Borgnine, the star of Mchale’s Navy, was a decorated war hero, having served in the United States Navy during World War II.
• Bob Crane, the co-star of Mchale’s Navy, was a radio disc jockey before becoming an actor.
• Mchale’s Navy was the first American film to feature a Japanese-American actor, Pat Morita, in a leading role.
• The film’s theme song, "An Officer and a Gentleman," was written by Henry Mancini and became a popular hit.
By exploring the filming locations of Mchale’s Navy, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the movie’s unique blend of action, comedy, and adventure. The next time you watch the film, keep an eye out for these iconic locations and relive the magic of this classic American comedy.
