Discovering the Wild Areas in the USA: Perfect Locations for Horror Movies

If you drive 15 miles away from the densest urban areas, like New York City (NYC), you might as well be driving a million miles away. Or take a journey up the Hudson River: you'll feel like you're living in the 1850s in a narrow peripheral, disconnected from the modern world. Unlike many other Western countries where one city houses the majority of the population, the USA is surprisingly rural. Multiple regions exist that showcase unique landscapes, often hidden behind convoluted interstate routes. One can quickly find themselves in a setting that feels miles away from civilization.

Every US State Has Its Own 'Wild Areas'

The United States is an exceptionally diverse country in terms of landscapes, offering a vast range of terrains that are ideal for horror movies. Whether you're looking for a desert, a forest, mountains and valleys, or frozen tundra, the US has it all. You can immerse yourself in a wilderness that feels untouched and alien, whether you're in the Southwest, New England, Wyoming, Alaska, coastal states, or even Hawaii. Let's explore some of the best wild areas in the USA that filmmakers use for their horror productions.

Finding the Perfect Locations: The Promise of the USA

From a cinematographer's perspective, the USA's diverse landscapes are a downfall and a blessing. The variety means that filmmakers can easily find the right setting for their horror genre. For instance, you could drive for a few hours on an interstate and suddenly find yourself in a setting that feels like the 1850s. No matter what kind of landscape you’re looking for, the USA can provide it. This diversity is one of the reasons why the USA is a popular filming location for many Hollywood productions.

Comparing the USA and Canada for Filmmakers

While the USA offers an extensive variety of wild areas, Canada is another country that filmmakers often overlook for its budget-friendly filming opportunities. With the Canadian dollar hovering at around two-thirds of the value of the US dollar, making a low-budget film in Canada can be more cost-effective. Additionally, the shared language and similar cultural background make it a familiar ground for American crews. This is similar to eastern Europe, where you might find a budget film but with the added challenge of a language barrier and unknown cultural elements.

One of the unique selling points of Canada for horror filmmakers is its swampland. Canada has an extensive network of swamps, which are typically alligator-free since the Paleocene age. While eastern Europe might offer similar wild areas, navigating the logistical challenges of filming there, including language barriers, unknown food scenes, and long flights, can be avoided by choosing Canada. Therefore, the accessible and budget-friendly option with similar cultural and linguistic affinity makes Canada a favorable choice.

Uncovering the Hidden Locations of Famous Horror Films

For those interested in discovering the locations used in their favorite horror films, the resources available today have made it easier than ever. IMDb often lists the primary filming locations, offering a valuable starting point for enthusiasts. For example, if you're a fan of the movie Silent Hill, the IMDb listing of locations can be a great starting point. Utilizing this information, you can conduct a Google Maps search to gain more details about these locations.

These unexplored corners of the USA, while often overshadowed by famous urban centers, offer a unique and haunting atmosphere that is perfect for horror movies. Whether you're in New England's dense forests, the remote wilderness of Alaska, or the Pacific Northwest, the USA's diverse landscapes provide an endless source of inspiration and location options for filmmakers.

So the next time you watch a horror movie, take a moment to appreciate the vast and varied wild areas in the USA that make these movies come alive. These hidden gems are not only visually stunning but also offer a glimpse into the untamed beauty that the USA has to offer.