So You Wanna See a Movie...Filmed in Tucson? You've Got Options, Pardner!
Hollywood loves Tucson! Our sizzling desert landscapes, charming neighborhoods, and (let's be honest) proximity to aliens have lured filmmakers here for decades. But what movies have actually graced the silver screen with Tucson in the starring role (or at least a supporting character)? Buckle up, cinephiles, because we're about to embark on a hilarious journey through Tucson's celluloid history!
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| What Movies Were Filmed In Tucson Arizona |
Classics with a Cactus Kick
We've got westerns aplenty, folks! John Wayne himself stomped through "El Dorado" (1966) here, while "Tombstone" (1993) brought the legendary gunfight to life (with a little artistic license, of course). But westerns aren't the only genre Tucson rocks. Remember that scene in "Revenge of the Nerds" (1984) where Lewis blows up the fraternity house? Yep, that was filmed on the hallowed grounds of the University of Arizona (UArizona for those in the know).
QuickTip: Pause at transitions — they signal new ideas.
Comedy Capers Under the Sun
Tucson's not all shootouts and saloons. We've got a funny bone too! The hilarious "Stir Crazy" (1980) with Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder had them rolling in the aisles with scenes filmed downtown. And who could forget the iconic teen rom-com "Can't Buy Me Love" (1987)? Swoon over a young Patrick Dempsey strolling the halls of Tucson High (although let's be real, he probably wouldn't have needed to pay anyone to be his date here).
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
Hidden Gems in the Glittering Sand
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Look close, eagle eyes! You might spot Tucson in some unexpected places. Remember that feel-good road trip movie "Away We Go" (2009)? Yep, they filmed scenes here. And how about the documentary masterpiece "Baraka" (1992)? Tucson's breathtaking scenery makes a cameo.
Tip: Be mindful — one idea at a time.
So next time you're flipping through channels and that familiar desert landscape pops up, you can say, "Hey, I know that place! That's Tucson, baby!"
FAQ: How to Become a Tucson Movie Extra (Without Getting Stabbed by a Cactus)
- How to: Hit the pavement! Look for local casting calls or agencies specializing in extras.
- Answer: Be prepared to spend hours waiting in the hot sun. Sunscreen is your friend!
FAQ: How to Look Like a Movie Star While Filming in Tucson (Even Though You're Just an Extra)
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
- How to: Sunglasses are a must. Not only do they hide exhaustion from all that waiting, but they add a touch of Hollywood cool.
- Answer: A wide-brimmed hat is also a good idea. Nobody wants a sunburned forehead on camera.
FAQ: How to Act Natural When the Cameras Are Rolling (Even Though You're Sweating Like a Sinner in Church)
- How to: Channel your inner thespian! But seriously, don't overthink it. Just try to blend in with the background and avoid tripping over any saguaro cacti.
- Answer: They might yell "Cut!" because of a technical difficulty, not because of your stellar (or slightly awkward) performance.
FAQ: How to Get Paid Like a Real Movie Star After Filming in Tucson (Even Though You're Basically Just a Warm Body)
- How to: Don't expect a fortune. Extra work usually pays minimum wage.
- Answer: But hey, consider it an investment in your acting career (or at least a fun story to tell at parties).
FAQ: How to Celebrate After a Long Day of Filming Under the Tucson Sun (Even Though You're Probably Not Famous Yet)
- How to: Hit up one of Tucson's many amazing restaurants and grab a margarita (or a big glass of water, if you're feeling parched).
- Answer: You survived another day in Hollywood (Tucson)!
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