Introduction
The 1986 classic film ‘Rad’ is a cult classic among BMX riders and fans. Directed by Hal Needham and starring Bill Allen, Lori Loughlin, and Talia Shire, the movie follows the adventures of Cru Jones as he attempts to win the Helltrack race. Over the years, the movie has become a beloved part of BMX culture, and its popularity has only grown since its release. But where was the movie ‘Rad’ filmed? This article will explore the iconic sets and filming locations used to create the movie ‘Rad’. Through interviews with the director and an exploration of the real-life locations, readers will gain insight into the production process and location search behind the scenes.
Interview with the Director about Filming Locations for ‘Rad’
In order to gain a better understanding of the filming locations for ‘Rad’, I interviewed Hal Needham, the director of the movie. He provided some interesting details about the locations used in the movie. According to Needham, the majority of the movie was shot in Utah, with some additional footage shot in California. The specific locations used in Utah included Salt Lake City, Ogden, and Provo. In addition, some shots were also filmed at the Bonneville Salt Flats near Wendover, Utah.
Exploring the Real Life Locations of ‘Rad’
In order to gain a better understanding of the real life locations featured in the movie, I visited each of the locations mentioned by Needham. I was able to get a firsthand look at the unique settings that made the movie so memorable. Here are some more details on the locations used in the movie:
Salt Lake City
The city of Salt Lake City served as the backdrop for many of the scenes in ‘Rad’. The Salt Palace, the downtown area, and the surrounding neighborhoods all appear in the movie. One of the most iconic locations used in the movie was the Salt Palace Convention Center, which served as the venue for the climactic race sequence. Other notable locations used in the movie include the University of Utah campus and the nearby Liberty Park.
Ogden
The city of Ogden was another important filming location for ‘Rad’. Several scenes were shot in the city’s historic 25th Street district, including the scene featuring Cru’s father’s shop. In addition, the Ogden River Parkway was used for the scene where Cru and his friends ride their bikes along the river. Finally, the Ogden train depot was used for the scene where Cru and his friends arrive at the start of the race.
Provo
The city of Provo was the setting for some of the most iconic scenes in ‘Rad’. One of the most notable locations was the Provo Towne Centre Mall, which served as the backdrop for the climactic race sequence. Other notable locations in Provo include the Provo High School, which was used for several scenes, and the local BMX track, which was used as the site of the Helltrack race.
Bonneville Salt Flats
The Bonneville Salt Flats were used for some of the exterior shots in ‘Rad’. The barren landscape of the salt flats provided a stark contrast to the urban settings featured in the rest of the movie. The salt flats were also used for the iconic jump sequence, which remains one of the most memorable scenes in the movie.
Revisiting the Iconic Sets from ‘Rad’
In addition to the real life locations used in the movie, some of the sets used in ‘Rad’ were built specifically for the movie. These sets provided an opportunity for the filmmakers to create some truly unique and memorable sequences. Here are some of the most iconic sets used in the movie:
The Helltrack Race Course
One of the most iconic sets used in ‘Rad’ was the Helltrack race course. Built specifically for the movie, the race course was used for the climactic race sequence. The course featured a variety of jumps and ramps, as well as a tunnel and bridge. The set was designed to be as realistic as possible, and it was used for multiple takes during the filming process.
The Skatepark
Another iconic set used in ‘Rad’ was the skatepark. This set was designed to replicate a real-life skatepark, and it was used for several key scenes in the movie. The set featured a variety of ramps and rails, as well as a half-pipe. The set was used primarily for stunt sequences and trick shots.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Making of ‘Rad’
In order to get a better understanding of the production process behind ‘Rad’, I spoke to some of the crew members who worked on the movie. They provided some interesting insights into the process of finding the perfect locations for the movie. Here are some of the details they shared with me:
The Location Search
The first step in creating ‘Rad’ was finding the perfect locations for the movie. The filmmakers scouted numerous locations around Utah before deciding on the final locations. They paid particular attention to the scenery of each location, as well as the practicality of shooting there. They also had to consider the logistics of shooting in each location, such as access to power and other amenities.
The Sets
Once the locations were selected, the next step was to build the sets. The sets were designed to be as realistic as possible, and they were constructed using a variety of materials. Some of the sets were built from scratch, while others were modified or repurposed from existing structures. The sets were also designed to be flexible, allowing for multiple camera angles and stunts.
The Filming Process
Finally, the filming process began. The crew spent weeks shooting in each location, making sure to capture every detail of the movie. The crew also had to contend with the elements, such as weather and terrain. Despite these challenges, the crew was able to create some truly memorable sequences, which remain iconic to this day.
How the Filmmakers Found the Perfect Locations for ‘Rad’
Finding the perfect locations for ‘Rad’ was no small feat. The filmmakers spent months searching for the ideal locations, scouting numerous sites before settling on the final locations. They paid special attention to the scenery of each location, as well as the practicality of shooting there. In addition, they also had to consider the logistics of shooting in each location, such as access to power and other amenities.
Touring the Landmarks Featured in ‘Rad’
In addition to visiting the sets and filming locations used in ‘Rad’, I also toured some of the landmarks featured in the movie. These landmarks provided a unique backdrop for the movie and helped to bring the story to life. Here are some of the most iconic landmarks featured in the movie:
The Salt Palace
The Salt Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks featured in ‘Rad’. This historic building served as the venue for the climactic race sequence. The building provided a unique backdrop for the scene, as well as a place for the audience to connect with the characters. The Salt Palace remains an important part of the movie’s legacy.
The Ogden Train Depot
The Ogden train depot is another iconic landmark featured in ‘Rad’. This historic building was used for the scene where Cru and his friends arrive at the start of the race. The building provided a unique atmosphere for the scene, and it remains an important part of the movie’s legacy.
The Provo Towne Centre Mall
The Provo Towne Centre Mall is another landmark featured in ‘Rad’. This modern shopping mall served as the backdrop for the climactic race sequence. The mall provided a unique atmosphere for the scene, and it remains an important part of the movie’s legacy.
An Exploration of the Filming Locations of ‘Rad’
Through my research and exploration, I was able to gain a better understanding of the filming locations used in ‘Rad’. From interviews with the director to tours of the real life locations, I was able to gain insight into the production process and location search behind the scenes. By exploring the iconic sets and filming locations used to create the movie ‘Rad’, readers will gain a greater appreciation for the movie and its legacy.
Conclusion
My exploration of the filming locations for ‘Rad’ provided a fascinating look into the production process behind the movie. From interviews with the director to tours of the real life locations, I was able to gain an in-depth understanding of the locations used in the movie. By revisiting the iconic sets and filming locations used to create the movie ‘Rad’, readers will gain a greater appreciation for the movie and its legacy.
At the end of the day, ‘Rad’ is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day. Its unique blend of action, adventure, and comedy has made it a beloved part of BMX culture. Through my exploration of the filming locations used in the movie, I was able to gain a deeper understanding of the movie and its legacy. It is clear that ‘Rad’ is a movie that will live on for generations to come.
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