Exploring the Filming Locations of True Grit

Exploring the Filming Locations of True Grit

The 2010 remake of the classic western True Grit is a beloved classic in its own right. The movie, directed by Ethan and Joel Coen, was shot in various locations across the United States and features stunning vistas and iconic locations. In this article, we’ll explore the various filming locations of True Grit and take a look at what makes each one special.

Background Information on the Movie True Grit

True Grit follows the story of Mattie Ross (Hailee Steinfeld), a 14-year-old girl who sets out to avenge her father’s death at the hands of an outlaw. She hires Rooster Cogburn (Jeff Bridges) to help her find justice, and the two set off on a wild adventure through the Wild West. Along the way, they meet a variety of interesting characters, including Texas Ranger LaBoeuf (Matt Damon).

The movie was released in December 2010 and was a critical and commercial success. It received ten Academy Award nominations and won four, including Best Actor for Jeff Bridges and Best Supporting Actress for Hailee Steinfeld. The movie also grossed over $250 million worldwide.

Discussing the Various Filming Locations of True Grit

True Grit was filmed in numerous locations across the United States. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key locations featured in the movie.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

The majority of True Grit was filmed in Santa Fe, New Mexico. This picturesque city provided the backdrop for many of the movie’s most iconic scenes, including the opening scene where Mattie meets with the local judge. Other scenes filmed in Santa Fe include the trial of Tom Chaney and the shootout at the bridge.

Monument Valley, Utah

Monument Valley is an iconic location that has been featured in countless movies, including True Grit. This stunning desert valley provided the backdrop for several key scenes, including Mattie and Rooster’s journey to Fort Smith, Arkansas. The movie also features sweeping shots of Monument Valley, which further enhance its epic feel.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Several scenes in True Grit were filmed in Colorado Springs, Colorado. These include the funeral scene and the scene where Mattie and Rooster first meet. Colorado Springs is also home to several locations featured in the movie, including the old jailhouse and the courthouse.

San Juan Mountains, Colorado

The San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado provided the backdrop for some of the movie’s most breathtaking scenes. This rugged mountain range provided the perfect setting for the climactic showdown between Rooster and Lucky Ned Pepper. The San Juan Mountains also feature prominently in the movie’s opening credits.

An Inside Look at the Making of True Grit

The production of True Grit was a long and arduous process. The Coen brothers had to work hard to create the movie’s unique style and atmosphere, and their efforts paid off. Here’s an inside look at the making of True Grit.

Overview of the Production Process for True Grit

The production of True Grit began in 2008 and lasted for over a year. The movie was shot in numerous locations across the United States, including Santa Fe, Monument Valley, Colorado Springs, and the San Juan Mountains. The Coen brothers worked closely with cinematographer Roger Deakins to ensure that the movie’s visuals would be as striking as possible.

Discussing the Cast and Crew

True Grit features an all-star cast, including Jeff Bridges, Matt Damon, Josh Brolin, and Hailee Steinfeld. The movie was directed by the Coen brothers, who also wrote the screenplay. Roger Deakins served as the cinematographer and Carter Burwell composed the score.

Discussing the Challenges Faced During the Making of True Grit

The production of True Grit was not without its challenges. The Coens had to deal with the harsh conditions of the desert locations, as well as the extreme temperatures and unpredictable weather. The cast and crew also had to contend with rattlesnakes, scorpions, and other wildlife. Despite these challenges, the Coens managed to create a beautiful, compelling movie.

On Location: A Guide to the Sets of True Grit

The sets of True Grit are as important to the movie as the locations. Let’s take a look at some of the key sets used in the movie.

Overview of the Sets Used in True Grit

The sets of True Grit were designed to evoke the feeling of the Wild West. The sets were built in California and Arizona, and featured a variety of buildings, including a saloon, a jailhouse, and a courthouse. The sets also featured an array of props, such as saddles, rifles, and wagons.

Discussing the Key Scenes Filmed at Each Location

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe was the main filming location for True Grit. Several key scenes were filmed here, including the courtroom scene and the shootout at the bridge. Santa Fe also served as the backdrop for the opening scene, where Mattie meets with the local judge.

Monument Valley, Utah

Monument Valley provided the backdrop for several key scenes, including Mattie and Rooster’s journey to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Monument Valley was also used for the movie’s sweeping establishing shots.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs was used for several key scenes, including the funeral scene and the scene where Mattie and Rooster first meet. Colorado Springs is also home to several locations featured in the movie, including the old jailhouse and the courthouse.

San Juan Mountains, Colorado

The San Juan Mountains provided the backdrop for some of the movie’s most breathtaking scenes. This rugged mountain range provided the perfect setting for the climactic showdown between Rooster and Lucky Ned Pepper.

Visiting the Real-Life Locations of True Grit

The locations featured in True Grit are just as beautiful in real life as they are in the movie. Here’s a guide to the best places to visit when exploring the areas featured in True Grit.

Overview of the Real-Life Locations Featured in True Grit

The locations featured in True Grit are as varied as they are stunning. From the deserts of Monument Valley to the mountains of Colorado, there is something for everyone. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key locations featured in the movie.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the city’s historic plazas, museums, galleries, and restaurants. Santa Fe is also home to several locations featured in True Grit, such as the courthouse and the old jailhouse.

Monument Valley, Utah

Monument Valley is an iconic location that has been featured in countless movies, including True Grit. Visitors can explore the valley’s stunning landscapes and take in its breathtaking views. Monument Valley is also home to several Native American tribes, so visitors can learn about their culture and history.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs is a beautiful city with plenty to offer. Visitors can explore the city’s historic sites and attractions, including the Garden of the Gods and the Air Force Academy. Colorado Springs is also home to several locations featured in True Grit, such as the old jailhouse and the courthouse.

San Juan Mountains, Colorado

The San Juan Mountains are a majestic mountain range located in southwestern Colorado. Visitors can explore the area’s stunning landscapes and take in its breathtaking views. The San Juan Mountains are also home to several locations featured in True Grit, such as the old mining camp.

A Tour of the Cinematic World of True Grit

The cinematography of True Grit is just as important as the locations. Let’s take a look at how the Coen brothers used lighting, special effects, and music to create a unique and memorable cinematic experience.

Exploring the Cinematography of True Grit

Roger Deakins is one of the most acclaimed cinematographers in the business, and his work on True Grit is no exception. Deakins used a combination of natural lighting and special effects to create a unique atmosphere. He also employed a variety of camera techniques, such as wide-angle shots and slow-motion sequences, to further enhance the movie’s visual appeal.

Discussing the Use of Lighting and Special Effects

Deakins made use of natural light to create a sense of realism, while also incorporating special effects to heighten the drama and suspense. He also used a variety of filters to create different moods and tones, such as using a blue filter to create a moonlit night or a yellow filter to add warmth to a scene.

Discussing the Importance of the Score and Soundtrack

The score and soundtrack of True Grit are just as important as the visuals. Composer Carter Burwell created a haunting score that perfectly captures the movie’s mood and tone. The soundtrack also features songs by artists such as Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Bob Dylan, which further enhances the movie’s atmosphere.

Conclusion

True Grit is a classic movie that features stunning visuals and iconic locations. From Santa Fe, New Mexico to Monument Valley, Utah, the movie takes viewers on a captivating journey through the Wild West. The Coen brothers’ use of cinematography, lighting, and special effects make True Grit an unforgettable movie-going experience. So if you’re looking for a classic western adventure, True Grit is definitely worth checking out.