Where was Milagro Beanfield War Filmed?
The Milagro Beanfield War is a 1988 American drama film directed by Robert Redford, based on the 1974 novel of the same name by John Nichols. The film tells the story of a small farm in New Mexico, and the struggles of its farmers against a wealthy businessman and the government. The film features a unique blend of drama, romance, and comedy, set against the backdrop of a small community in the 1950s.
Filming Locations
The film was primarily shot in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, with additional scenes filmed in Colorado and California. The exact locations were:
- Chimayo, New Mexico: The town of Chimayo was used as the primary filming location, with the main street, homes, and surrounding landscapes featured in the film.
- Truchas, New Mexico: The village of Truchas was also used as a filming location, with many of its buildings and homes appearing in the film.
- Santa Fe, New Mexico: Some interior scenes, such as those in the local church, were filmed in Santa Fe.
- Albuquerque, New Mexico: Additional scenes, such as those featuring the governor’s office, were filmed in Albuquerque.
Reasons for Filming Location
The choice of Rio Arriba County as a filming location was deliberate. The area was chosen for its authentic, rural New Mexican landscape and its strong Hispanic culture, which were both essential to the story.
- John Nichols, the author of the novel, was from Rio Arriba County, and he chose the area for its similarity to the fictional town in his book.
- Robert Redford, the director, was also attracted to the area because of its unique charm and beauty.
- The region’s rugged terrain and varied landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and desert landscapes, offered a diverse range of settings for the film.
Behind-the-Scenes Facts
Some interesting behind-the-scenes facts about the filming of Milagro Beanfield War include:
- Crew members lived in tents and RVs on location for several weeks while filming.
- Robert Redford personally selected most of the cast, many of whom were local New Mexicans.
- Some scenes were filmed in front of a green screen**, with backgrounds added in post-production.
- The film’s score, composed by Dave Grusin, was partially recorded on location, featuring traditional New Mexican music and instruments.
Impact and Legacy
The Milagro Beanfield War received positive reviews from critics, with many praising its unique blend of drama, comedy, and romance. The film has become a beloved classic in American cinema, and its filming locations remain popular tourist attractions in Rio Arriba County.
| Filming Location | Year |
|---|---|
| Chimayo, New Mexico | 1988 |
| Truchas, New Mexico | 1988 |
| Santa Fe, New Mexico | 1988 |
| Albuquerque, New Mexico | 1988 |
| Colorado | 1987 (additional scenes) |
| California | 1987 (additional scenes) |
Conclusion
Milagro Beanfield War is a beloved film with a unique and authentic depiction of rural New Mexico culture. The choice of Rio Arriba County as a filming location was deliberate, with the area’s rich history, rugged terrain, and diverse landscapes providing the perfect backdrop for the film. Whether you’re a fan of the film or simply interested in its unique filming locations, Rio Arriba County is a must-visit destination for any film enthusiast or history buff.
