Django Unchained: California Dreamin' (or Something Like That)
So, you wanna know where they filmed that epic spaghetti western, Django Unchained? Let's dive into the wild world of Tarantino and his cinematic choices.
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| Where Was Django Unchained Filmed In California |
California: The Golden State, Not Just the Gold Rush
You might be surprised to hear this, but despite the movie's deep south setting, a good chunk of Django Unchained was actually filmed in the sunny state of California. Now, before you start picturing Django riding a surfboard, let's clarify: they didn't transform Santa Monica into a cotton plantation.
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The magic of filmmaking, folks!
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Location, Location, Location (But Not Realistically)
- Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio, Newhall: This place is like the Hollywood of the Old West. It's where they built those classic western sets, and Tarantino thought, "Hey, let's use that!" So, imagine Django and Dr. King Schultz strolling through a perfectly recreated antebellum south, right there in California.
- Upper Las Virgenes Canyon Open Space Preserve: This place went from being a hiking spot to a slave auction ground. Yep, you read that right. The vast, open spaces of this preserve were transformed into the backdrop for some of the movie's most iconic scenes. Talk about a career change for a canyon!
- Ahmanson Ranch: Another Californian gem, this ranch played host to some of the film's more dramatic moments. So, next time you're driving through Los Angeles and see a sprawling ranch, remember, Django might have been there, in spirit at least.
Did They Actually Find Gold?
Okay, so California might not have been the most accurate choice for a deep south setting, but hey, it worked, right? The state's diverse landscapes provided the perfect canvas for Tarantino's vision. Plus, it's a lot easier to get a film permit in California than in Mississippi, we imagine.
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So, there you have it. Next time you're driving through California, keep an eye out for those familiar locations. Who knows, maybe you'll spot a hidden Django Easter egg.
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How To... Django Unchained Edition
- How to find the Alabama Hills: These aren't just any hills, folks. They're the ones that look like they belong in a sci-fi movie. Google Maps is your friend!
- How to appreciate Tarantino's genius: Watch the movie again. And again. And again.
- How to avoid getting confused: Remember, California is just a stand-in. The story takes place in the American South.
- How to channel your inner Django: Find a really cool hat.
- How to make a mean spaghetti western: You'll need a lot of pasta, a strong plot, and probably a questionable moral compass.
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