Overview of The Outsiders Filming Location
The filming of The Outsiders primarily took place in Oklahoma, a state that provided the perfect backdrop for the story’s small-town atmosphere. Director Francis Ford Coppola chose Oklahoma for its scenic landscapes, accessible locations, and affordability. The film’s setting is supposed to be in Tulsa, Oklahoma, which influences many of the shooting locations. However, the production utilized multiple sites within Oklahoma to authentically recreate the 1960s American Midwest.
Key Filming Locations for The Outsiders
Below are the main filming sites that contributed to the authentic feel of the movie:
1. Tulsa, Oklahoma
Tulsa served as the primary filming location for many of the movie’s scenes. The city’s neighborhoods and streets provided the ideal setting for the story’s small-town vibe.
- Downtown Tulsa: Some street scenes, including shots of Ponyboy and Johnny walking through the city, were filmed in the downtown area. The vintage storefronts and architecture helped evoke the 1960s setting.
- Golden Age Theater: An old theater in Tulsa was used to depict the movie theater scenes, reinforcing the nostalgic feel of the era.
2. Tulsa’s Suburban Neighborhoods
Many of the residential scenes, representing Ponyboy’s home and the homes of other Greasers and Socs, were shot in Tulsa’s suburban neighborhoods.
- North Tulsa: This area was chosen for its classic houses and tree-lined streets, perfect for representing Ponyboy’s neighborhood.
- Cherry’s House: The house used for Cherry’s home was located in a Tulsa suburb, giving a realistic portrayal of the affluent side of town.
3. The Old Quarry and Abandoned Sites
A significant scene involves Johnny and Ponyboy hiding out in an abandoned church, which was actually shot at an old quarry.
- Oklahoma Quarry: The scene where Johnny and Ponyboy hide out was filmed at a real abandoned quarry near Tulsa. This location’s rugged, isolated environment contributed to the tense atmosphere of the scene.
4. The Church Scene Location
The iconic scene where Johnny and Ponyboy set the church on fire was shot at a real church that was temporarily closed during filming.
- Old Church Building: Located in a rural part of Oklahoma, the church provided an authentic setting for this pivotal scene. The church was later restored after filming.
5. Other Notable Locations
In addition to Tulsa, some scenes were shot in other parts of Oklahoma to diversify the landscape.
- Rural Oklahoma Areas: Wide shots of open fields and rural landscapes were captured in various locations outside Tulsa, emphasizing the contrast between the Greasers and Socs.
- Bridge and River Scenes: The scene where Johnny and Ponyboy hide in the park and the river scenes were filmed near Oklahoma’s rivers and bridges, adding natural beauty to the film.
Why Oklahoma Was Chosen for Filming
The decision to film The Outsiders in Oklahoma was driven by several factors:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Oklahoma offered lower production costs compared to other states, making it an economical choice for filmmakers.
- Authentic Americana Setting: The state's landscapes and architecture closely resembled the small-town Midwest of the 1960s, vital for maintaining the story’s period accuracy.
- Availability of Suitable Locations: Oklahoma’s diverse scenery—from urban streets to rural landscapes—allowed the filmmakers to find the perfect settings without extensive location scouting elsewhere.
- Support from Local Authorities: The Oklahoma Film Commission and local communities were supportive, facilitating smooth filming processes.
Legacy of the Filming Locations
Many of the locations used in The Outsiders have since become popular tourist attractions for fans visiting Oklahoma. Some sites have preserved elements from the filming, allowing enthusiasts to walk in the footsteps of Ponyboy, Johnny, and the other characters.
Notable Site Preservation and Tours
- Oklahoma Film Trail: Several filming sites are marked as part of the Oklahoma Film Trail, guiding visitors through key locations from the movie.
- Historic Churches and Houses: Some of the houses and churches used in filming have been preserved or documented for historical purposes.
- Local Tours: Various tour companies in Tulsa offer The Outsiders movie tours, taking visitors to the actual filming locations and sharing behind-the-scenes stories.
Conclusion
The filming locations of The Outsiders play a crucial role in establishing the film's nostalgic and authentic small-town American setting. Primarily shot in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the movie utilized a mix of urban, suburban, rural, and natural landscapes to bring S.E. Hinton’s beloved story to life. The choice of Oklahoma not only provided cost-effective and versatile locations but also contributed to the timeless Americana atmosphere that continues to resonate with audiences today. For fans and visitors alike, exploring these sites offers a tangible connection to the story’s roots and the cultural fabric of 1960s Oklahoma.
Whether you’re a dedicated fan or a movie history enthusiast, understanding where The Outsiders was filmed enhances appreciation for this cinematic classic and its enduring legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the movie 'The Outsiders' filmed?
'The Outsiders' was primarily filmed in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with some scenes shot in nearby areas to capture the 1960s Oklahoma setting.
Are the filming locations of 'The Outsiders' still recognizable today?
Yes, many of the locations in Tulsa used for filming, such as the neighborhoods and school scenes, remain recognizable and have become points of interest for fans.
Did the filming of 'The Outsiders' take place in any other states besides Oklahoma?
No, the majority of 'The Outsiders' was filmed in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with no significant filming locations reported in other states.
Are there any tours or visits available for fans to see where 'The Outsiders' was filmed?
Yes, Tulsa offers guided tours and visits to key filming locations from 'The Outsiders,' allowing fans to explore the movie's real-life settings.
Was 'The Outsiders' filmed at the actual locations described in S.E. Hinton's novel?
While the novel is set in Oklahoma, the film's locations were chosen in Tulsa to authentically reflect the book's setting, making it feel true to the story's environment.
