Where Was Mackenna’s Gold Filmed?
Mackenna’s Gold is a Western adventure film released in 1969, directed by J. Lee Thompson. The movie is based on a novel by Will Henry and boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Gregory Peck, Omar Sharif, Telly Savalas, Camilla Sparv, and Julie Newmar. The film tells the story of a group of treasure hunters searching for a legendary canyon filled with gold in the Wild West. As an iconic Western film, many fans wonder where Mackenna’s Gold was filmed.
Mackenna’s Gold was primarily filmed on location in the state of Arizona, United States. The stunning landscapes of Arizona provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s epic adventure. Here are some of the notable locations used during the filming of Mackenna’s Gold:
1. Tucson, Arizona: The city of Tucson served as the primary filming location. Various scenes were shot in and around Tucson, including the Old Tucson Studios, which was a popular filming location for many Westerns.
2. Sonoran Desert: The vast Sonoran Desert, which stretches across parts of Arizona and California, was featured prominently in the film. Its unique desert landscapes added an authentic touch to the Wild West setting.
3. Superstition Mountains: Mackenna’s Gold showcases the beautiful Superstition Mountains, located east of Phoenix. The rugged and picturesque mountains provided a stunning backdrop for the treasure hunt.
4. Old Tucson Studios: As mentioned earlier, the Old Tucson Studios played a significant role in the filming of Mackenna’s Gold. This iconic movie studio has been used for various Western films and television shows throughout the years.
5. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument: Located in southern Arizona, this national monument features a diverse range of desert plants, including the iconic organ pipe cactus. Some scenes from the film were shot in this stunning natural setting.
6. San Rafael Valley: This scenic valley, located south of Patagonia, Arizona, was also used during the filming of Mackenna’s Gold. Its rolling hills and grasslands added visual appeal to the movie.
7. Saguaro National Park: Mackenna’s Gold showcases the majestic saguaro cacti, which are native to the Sonoran Desert. Saguaro National Park, located near Tucson, provided a beautiful backdrop for several scenes.
8. Pima County, Arizona: Various scenes were filmed in Pima County, which encompasses Tucson and its surrounding areas. The county’s diverse landscapes, including deserts and mountains, added depth to the film.
9. Old Pueblo: Tucson, often referred to as the Old Pueblo, was used for multiple scenes in the movie. Its historic downtown area and unique architecture added a touch of authenticity to the Wild West setting.
10. Santa Catalina Mountains: This mountain range, located north of Tucson, served as a backdrop for several scenes in Mackenna’s Gold. Its rugged cliffs and dense forests provided a visually stunning setting.
11. Rincon Mountains: The Rincon Mountains, located east of Tucson, were also featured in the film. The mountain range’s scenic beauty added to the overall ambiance of the movie.
12. Dragoon Mountains: Situated in southeastern Arizona, the Dragoon Mountains provided a rugged and dramatic backdrop for some scenes in Mackenna’s Gold.
13. Coronado National Forest: This national forest, spanning over 1.78 million acres in southeastern Arizona, offered a diverse range of landscapes that were utilized during the filming process.
FAQs:
1. Is Mackenna’s Gold based on a true story?
No, Mackenna’s Gold is a work of fiction based on a novel by Will Henry.
2. Who starred in Mackenna’s Gold?
The film starred Gregory Peck, Omar Sharif, Telly Savalas, Camilla Sparv, and Julie Newmar.
3. Is Mackenna’s Gold available on DVD or Blu-ray?
Yes, the movie is available for purchase on DVD and Blu-ray.
4. When was Mackenna’s Gold released?
The film was released in 1969.
5. Who directed Mackenna’s Gold?
J. Lee Thompson directed the movie.
6. Did Mackenna’s Gold receive any awards?
No, the film did not receive any major awards.
7. What is the running time of Mackenna’s Gold?
The running time of the film is approximately 128 minutes.
8. Is Mackenna’s Gold a Western film?
Yes, Mackenna’s Gold is considered a Western adventure film.
9. Where can I watch Mackenna’s Gold online?
Mackenna’s Gold can be streamed on various online platforms, such as Amazon Prime and Netflix.
10. Did Mackenna’s Gold perform well at the box office?
Yes, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $12 million worldwide.
11. Was Mackenna’s Gold critically acclaimed?
The film received mixed reviews from critics upon its release.
12. Are there any sequels to Mackenna’s Gold?
No, there are no official sequels to the film.
13. Is Mackenna’s Gold considered a classic Western?
Yes, Mackenna’s Gold is often regarded as a classic Western film due to its star-studded cast and adventurous storyline.
In conclusion, Mackenna’s Gold was filmed on location in various parts of Arizona, utilizing the state’s stunning desert landscapes and mountain ranges to create an authentic Wild West setting. The film’s success and enduring popularity have solidified its place among the classic Westerns of its time. Whether it’s the thrilling treasure hunt or the breathtaking scenery, Mackenna’s Gold continues to captivate audiences with its timeless adventure.
