Where was After Earth filmed?

The narrative catapults us into a distant future where humanity is forced to flee Earth due to an environmental disaster, seeking refuge on a new planet named Nova Prime. A specialized military unit, the ranger corps, is established to facilitate this mass exodus. An integral part of bringing the alien landscapes of Nova Prime to life was filmed in the breathtaking city of Moab, Utah. Moab's iconic red rock formations provide a stunning and otherworldly setting that perfectly encapsulates the rugged beauty of Nova Prime. The area is renowned for its natural wonders, including over 2,000 natural stone arches, towering pinnacles, immense rock fins, and colossal balanced rocks. This red-rock wonderland captivates visitors with its awe-inspiring formations, rejuvenates them with its trails, and enchants them with its spectacular sunsets. For fans or anyone drawn to the allure of natural beauty, a tour of Moab's red rock landscapes offers a unique opportunity to step into the film world and experience the majesty of one of Earth's most remarkable environments. Travelers looking to explore Moab can drive from Denver, with a drive time of approximately 6 hours along I-70 W. Alternatively, those coming from Albuquerque can reach Moab in about six and a half hours by taking US-550 N and US-491 N.

Kitai (Jaden Smith) grapples with his ambition to follow in the footsteps of his father, Cypher (Will Smith), by becoming a Ranger. Despite his determination and rigorous training, Kitai's application is ultimately rejected due to his impulsive nature, leading Cypher to view him as a disappointment. This familial tension is further explored when Kitai's mother, Faia (Sophie Okonedo), persuades Cypher to take Kitai on what is meant to be Cypher's final voyage before retirement. This scene was brought to life at The Budd Company's premises at 2450 West Hunting Park Avenue in Philadelphia. Established in 1912 by Edward G. Budd, the Budd Company played a significant role in automotive history with the development of the first all-steel automobile bodies in 1913. Although the company ceased operations several years later, its legacy and contribution to industrial innovation remain noteworthy. To get to this location, travelers can navigate to West Hunting Park Avenue in Philadelphia, keeping in mind that the site's current state may differ from its portrayal in the film. Traveling from the center of Philadelphia, one can arrive at the destination either by car or public transportation. A car journey takes approximately 15 minutes via N Broad St. Alternatively, taking a public bus involves a 30-minute ride with a change at the Broad St & Allegheny Av stop.

The tranquility of space travel is violently disrupted when an asteroid shower ensnares the spaceship carrying Cypher (Will Smith) and his son Kitai (Jaden Smith). The intense sequence culminates in a desperate crash-landing on the now-forbidden and wildly transformed Earth. With Cypher incapacitated due to broken legs and their main hope for rescue – a distress beacon – damaged, along with the added peril of an escaped lethal creature known as an Ursa, Kitai must navigate the treacherous terrain of Earth to save them both. The breathtaking and hostile landscapes that backdrop their struggle for survival were brought to life in the majestic settings of Humboldt Redwoods State Park, located at 17119 Avenue of the Giants in Weott. The park is renowned for its awe-inspiring redwood forests, including the Rockefeller Forest – home to several of the world's tallest trees. Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California's largest redwood state park, encompasses over 53,000 acres, with more than 17,000 acres of ancient coast redwoods. Visitors are welcomed by the park's Visitor Center near Weott, which offers insights into the region's natural history, wildlife, and local heritage. For those eager to explore this cinematic landscape, the park is easily accessible via the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic byway that meanders through the forest. Traveling from San Francisco, one can reach the destination in approximately 4 hours by taking the US-101 highway. Alternatively, public bus transportation is viable, though it would extend the journey to about 8 hours and require multiple transfers.

Kitai (Jaden Smith) finds himself in a precarious situation when he awakens within a condor's nest and is immediately thrust into danger. Surrounded by ferocious saber cats intent on attacking the condor's chicks, Kitai forms an unexpected alliance with the condor. Together, they fend off the saber cats in a tense battle for survival, showcasing Kitai's bravery and quick thinking. This gripping scene was brought to life at the Sun Center Studios, located at 250 North Commerce Drive in the township of Aston, Pennsylvania. Since its opening in 2011, Sun Center Studios has distinguished itself as Pennsylvania's premier purpose-built studio complex. Sprawling over 33 acres, the facility boasts three state-of-the-art sound stages, ample parking, robust perimeter security, and comprehensive security camera coverage, providing an ideal environment for film production. Sun Center Studios has hosted the production of several notable films, including Creed (2015), Split (2016), The Upside (2017), and Hustle (2022), among others, cementing its reputation in the film industry. Fans interested in visiting the site should contact the administration to inquire about access. For those interested in visiting the location where this intense scene was filmed, Sun Center Studios is accessible from the center of Philadelphia. The journey can be made by car, offering a straightforward route via I-95 S, a 30-minute drive.

Kitai (Jaden Smith) finds himself lying on the ground, not far from the volcano that holds the key to his and his father's rescue. In this pivotal scene, Kitai is haunted by the wisdom imparted by his father, Cypher (Will Smith). Cypher's advice to focus on the present moment rather than the outcome resonates deeply with Kitai, allowing him to master his fear. This newfound control enables Kitai to become "invisible" to the Ursa, a predator that hunts its prey through sensing fear. With calm and precision, Kitai confronts and ultimately defeats Ursa. The production ventured into the majestic terrains of Switzerland's Canton of Bern to capture the otherworldly landscapes of the planet Nova Prime. Among these stunning natural settings, the iconic Eiger mountain stands out prominently in several crucial scenes throughout the film. The Eiger is one of the most renowned peaks in the Bernese Oberland region and all of Switzerland, known for its imposing north face and challenging climbs. The area around the Eiger, particularly near the village of Grindelwald, served as a breathtaking backdrop for the movie. Grindelwald is a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of hiking trails and skiing opportunities within the Bernese Alps. It is accessible by train or car from major Swiss cities such as Bern, Zurich, and Grindelwald. From Bern, take a train to Interlaken Ost, then transfer to Grindelwald by train. From Zurich, travel by train to Interlaken Ost and continue to Grindelwald.