If you’re searching for a Gary Cooper film from the early 1950s, then you can conclude your search. Today, I will acquaint you with a western-drama flick, High Noon, featuring Cooper. And later let you in on where was High Noon filmed.
The American western-thriller film, High Noon, released in 1952 was a blockbuster hit. However, the makers were alleged to push communist propaganda through the storyline of this crime-drama film. Director Fred Zinnemann showcased the declining socio-economic condition of America, which wasn’t particularly appreciated by the high-ranking government officials of the time. The central story of the film revolves around the character of Will Kane, a stern town marshall of New Mexico. Kane is forced to apprehend a gang of alleged criminals, after being fully aware of their innocence.
Despite the controversy, which ultimately worked in favor of High Noon, the film went on to become a huge commercial success in 1952. This western-thriller film grossed over $12 million in total box office collections, against the minimal production budget of $700,000. High Noon was acclaimed by the critics as well, enabling it to win a total of 11 coveted awards, including 4 Oscars.
So, if you’re wondering where was High Noon filmed, then wonder no more. As we are now going to take a closer look at the filming locations of this action-thriller flick. Plus, later in this article, I will also acquaint you with the plot of High Noon.
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Where Was High Noon Filmed? Let’s Know This Western Drama Flick Closely!
The makers of High Noon, found themselves in the middle of a strange problem while working on this project. The adverse effects of the Korean war of 1951 somehow hugely impacted the government of America, to turn against Fred Zinnemann and his team. However, in the later years, High Noon was rightfully inducted into the American National Film Registry by the Library of Congress and received its long-due recognition.
So, apart from dealing with the protests and agitations, the director and his members used their minds to scout for ideal filming locations. The option to film on location, specifically in and around the regions of New Mexico, was out of the question for obvious reasons. Thus, the next best place to portray the dry and arid backdrop required for the film was the state of California.
After finalizing different filming locations in California, the principal photography commenced in September 1951. The crew took only a month to complete the entire filming process. So, without waiting any longer, let’s have a detailed discussion about where was High Noon filmed, and find out more about the specific shooting sites.
Jamestown, California | USA
The opening scene of the movie, where we see Marshall Kane entering a tavern in New Mexico, was in reality filmed in Jamestown. This sparsely-populated place in Tuolumne County is a historical landmark of California. The rough and arid terrain was perfect to portray the look of the barren lands of New Mexico. The Sierra Railroad, adjacent to Jamestown was used to film the rail scenes in the movie. A couple of establishing shots were captured near the Brooks Ranch and Railtown located at 1897 State Historical Park.
Other major scenes in Tuolumne City were filmed in St Joseph’s Catholic Church. This Catholic prayer house located at 18473 Gardner Avenue was used to shoot the sequence of the film where the male lead is shown to find refuge inside of a church.
Other Filming Locations, California | USA
The production members then traveled to different parts of California and captured several outdoor sequences. Specifically around Wilson-McConnell House and Columbia State Historic Park. In order to film the interior scenes, the members then arrived at the Warner Brothers Burbank Studios (currently demolished) and constructed a make-believe setting. Filming continued for another two weeks until the 10th of October 1951, and then started working on post-production.
Alright friends, now let’s briefly discuss the plot of High Noon. So that you can establish a basic idea about the actual storyline of this film. Meanwhile, you can also check out Avatar: The Way of Water, Amsterdam and Bullet Train which were also filmed in California.
Plot Of High Noon | What’s It About
The story of High Noon revolves around the character of Will Kane, a just yet stern U.S. Marshall, stationed in a crime-infested town of New Mexico. At the beginning of the movie, the male lead is shown to get involved in a fight with one of the feared outlaws of the area.
As the story progresses further, the same outlaw plots on taking revenge, and heads back to his boss, to report the same. Kane is then ambushed by a bunch of heinous criminals, who reach the New Mexican town looking for Marshall. The male lead then finds a shocking truth about one of the henchmen and his wife, which leaves him startled. Watch High Noon to find out how Will takes on the gang of criminals and brings them to justice.
Final Words
Alright friends, so now that you’ve read the plot of High Noon, I believe you have established a basic idea about the film. And I also hope that you enjoyed the read, after knowing where was High Noon filmed, and found what you were looking for. Mention your thoughts in the comments section below, your constructive opinions motivates us to deliver better work. And be sure to check out other amazing articles on Viebly.
Who Are The Cast Members Of The Film High Noon?
The cast of the film High Noon includes Gary Cooper, Thomas Mithchell, Lloyd Bridges, Katy Jurado, Grace Kelly, and Lon Chaney along with some other notable actors.
Who Is The Cinematographer Of The Film High Noon?
Floyd Crosby is the cinematographer of the film High Noon.
What Is The Rating Of The Film High Noon?
The film High Noon has a PG-13 rating.
Who Is The Music Director Of The Film High Noon?
Dimitri Tiomkin is the music director of the film High Noon.
What Is The Runtime Of The Film High Noon?
1h 25m is the runtime of the film High Noon.
