Where was the War Wagon filmed?
The War Wagon, a classic Western film released in 1967, has captivated audiences with its action-packed storyline and memorable characters. Directed by Burt Kennedy and starring John Wayne and Kirk Douglas, the movie has become a staple of the Western genre. But where was this epic film shot? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to uncover the filming locations of the War Wagon.
The Story Behind the War Wagon
Before we dive into the filming locations, let’s briefly explore the story behind the War Wagon. The movie is set in the late 1800s and follows the adventures of Taw Jackson (John Wayne), a former outlaw who seeks revenge against his former gang members who betrayed him. Jackson teams up with an ex-Confederate soldier, Tom (Kirk Douglas), to pull off a daring heist and steal a large quantity of gold from a Wells Fargo stagecoach.
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**Filming Locations**
The War Wagon was filmed on location in various parts of the United States, primarily in the states of Arizona, Utah, and California. Here are some of the notable filming locations:
Location | State | Notes |
---|---|---|
Monument Valley | Arizona | This iconic valley was used as the backdrop for many of the film’s exterior scenes, including the opening sequences and the final showdown between Jackson and his gang. |
Mexican Hat | Utah | The small town of Mexican Hat was used as the setting for the fictional town of Agua Caliente, where Jackson and Tom plan their heist. |
Monument Rocks | California | Located in the Mojave Desert, Monument Rocks was used as the location for the abandoned mine where Jackson and Tom hide out after the heist. |
Calico Ghost Town | California | This historic town was used as the setting for the town of Drygulch, where Jackson and Tom are forced to take refuge after being pursued by the law. |
Mojave Desert | California | The film’s desert scenes were shot on location in the Mojave Desert, including the famous "sandstorm" sequence where Jackson and Tom escape from their pursuers. |
**Monument Valley: The Iconic Backdrop**
Monument Valley, located on the Arizona-Utah border, is one of the most iconic filming locations in the War Wagon. The valley’s distinctive sandstone formations, known as "monuments," have been used as the backdrop for countless Westerns, including classic films like John Ford’s "The Searchers" and "She Wore a Yellow Ribbon." The valley’s unique landscape, with its towering rock formations and endless expanse of desert, provides a breathtaking setting for the film’s exterior scenes.
**Calico Ghost Town: A Real-Life Western Town**
Calico Ghost Town, located in San Bernardino County, California, is another notable filming location for the War Wagon. This historic town was once a thriving mining community, but it was abandoned in the early 20th century. Today, Calico Ghost Town is a popular tourist attraction, with many of its original buildings still standing. The town’s old-timey atmosphere and rustic charm made it an ideal setting for the film’s scenes in the town of Drygulch.
**The Making of the War Wagon**
The War Wagon was filmed on a relatively low budget, with a production cost of around $3 million. Despite this, the film’s production team managed to create a cinematic spectacle that has stood the test of time. The film’s action sequences, including the famous stagecoach chase and the final showdown, were filmed using a combination of location shooting and studio sets.
**Conclusion**
The War Wagon is a classic Western film that has captivated audiences for generations. Its memorable characters, action-packed storyline, and stunning cinematography have made it a staple of the genre. And while the film’s production team used a combination of location shooting and studio sets to create the movie’s iconic scenes, it’s clear that the real stars of the show are the breathtaking landscapes of the American West. From Monument Valley to Calico Ghost Town, the War Wagon’s filming locations are a testament to the power of location shooting in bringing a film to life.
Additional Resources
- "The War Wagon" (1967) – IMDb
- Monument Valley Tourism Board
- Calico Ghost Town Website