Paramount Studio map of potential filming locations in California that best depict international regions (1927)

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California is renowned for its diverse and stunning landscapes, which is why it has been a favorite location for filmmakers for decades. In 1927, Paramount Studio created a fascinating map showcasing potential filming locations in California that best depict various international regions. This map highlighted places in California that could stand in for the French Alps, Siberia, a Wyoming cattle ranch, the Sudanese desert, the Kentucky Mountains, the Red Sea, the Sahara Desert, the Malayan coast, the south coast of Iceland, Wales, the New England Coast, the Mississippi River, and the Alaskan River. Let’s dive into the incredible versatility of California’s landscapes and explore how they have been used in the film industry.

Here is the updated version of the Paramount Studios Location Map.

California as the World: A Glimpse into Paramount’s Vision

The Paramount Studio map of 1927 is a testament to California’s geographical diversity. The state’s varied topography and climate zones make it possible to recreate almost any environment from around the world. Here are some notable examples from the map:

• French Alps: The rugged mountains and snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada can easily pass for the French Alps, providing a perfect backdrop for films set in this iconic European region.
• Siberia: The desolate, snow-covered landscapes of California’s higher elevations can convincingly portray the cold, remote expanses of Siberia.
• Wyoming Cattle Ranch: The vast open spaces and rolling hills of Central California mirror the classic American West, ideal for films depicting life on a Wyoming cattle ranch.
• Sudanese Desert: The arid deserts of Southern California can replicate the harsh, sun-baked terrain of the Sudanese desert.
• Kentucky Mountains: The forested hills and lush greenery of Northern California can stand in for the picturesque Kentucky Mountains.
• Red Sea: The coastal regions of California, with their dramatic cliffs and blue waters, can evoke the allure of the Red Sea.
• Sahara Desert: The expansive sand dunes of the Mojave Desert are perfect for films set in the Sahara Desert.
• Malayan Coast: California’s tropical coastline, with its palm trees and sandy beaches, can transport viewers to the Malayan coast.
• South Coast of Iceland: The rocky shores and misty landscapes of California’s northern coast resemble the south coast of Iceland.
• Wales: The rolling green hills and quaint countryside of California can easily be mistaken for the Welsh landscape.
• New England Coast: The rugged coastline and charming seaside towns of Northern California can double as the New England coast.
• Mississippi River: California’s river valleys, with their winding waters and lush banks, can mimic the iconic Mississippi River.
• Alaskan River: The wild, untamed rivers of California’s remote areas can convincingly portray the Alaskan wilderness.

Movies Filmed in California but Set Elsewhere

Hollywood has a long history of using California’s diverse locations to stand in for various parts of the world. Here are a few examples of films that you might think were filmed in far-off places but were actually shot in California:

• “Jurassic Park”: The lush, tropical scenes of the fictional Isla Nublar were filmed in the verdant landscapes of Kauai, Hawaii, but many close-up shots and other sequences were shot in California.
• “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”: The desert scenes set in the Middle East were filmed in the Alabama Hills near Lone Pine, California.
• “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”: The tropical island scenes were filmed in the Caribbean, but many sequences were shot on the coast of California.
• “Planet of the Apes”: The iconic beach scene was filmed at Point Dume State Beach in Malibu, California.

California’s ability to transform into different parts of the world has made it an indispensable location for filmmakers.

Discover More About California’s Diverse Landscape

If you’re fascinated by California’s geographical versatility and want to explore more about the state’s unique landscapes, check out these products on Amazon:

• California Hiking: The Complete Guide to 1,000 of the Best Hikes in the Golden State
• California Road and Recreation Atlas
• Backroads of California: Your Guide to Scenic Getaways & Adventures