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Cast Away movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Cast Away filmed?

2000

City Locations

Manuriki (USA), Los Angeles (USA), Tennessee (USA), Moscow (Russia)

Location Types

House, Ranch, Unique, Film Studio

Location Styles

Beachfront, Plane, Ranch Style

About Cast Away

In the 2000 survival drama, Cast Away, Tom Hanks commands the screen under the direction of Robert Zemeckis. A joint production between Zemeckis and Hanks, he stars as Chuck Noland, a FedEx troubleshooter, whose aircraft has an unexpected crash-landing in the South Pacific, leaving him marooned on a deserted island. The plot revolves around his desperate efforts to find his way back home and survive on the isolated landmass. Filming began in January 1999 before breaking in April 2000 and wrapping up that May. 20th Century Fox released Cast Away, later that December, in theaters across North America while DreamWorks Pictures distributed the feature internationally. With a global box office earning of $429 million, it became the third-highest-grossing movie of 2000. Critics unanimously praised the movie's screenplay and Hanks's outstanding performance, awarding him Best Actor Golden and the Best Actor Oscar nomination.

Cast Away Locations

The filming of Cast Away happened chronologically, commencing on January 18, 1999, and concluding two months later. The team resumed production in April and finally wrapped up the next month. To make his transformation from pre to post-island life more dramatic, Hanks packed on 50 pounds before filming started. After most of the movie was filmed, production halted so he could shed off the weight and grow out his hair and beard to fit the island look. In a near-fatal incident, while filming Cast Away, Hanks suffered from an infection from a cut he sustained on his leg, and he required urgent hospitalization for three days. Production halted once again for three weeks as he recuperated from the injury. The idyllic island of Monuriki within Fiji's stunning Mamanuca archipelago served as the scenic backdrop for Cast Away. It sits off the coast of Viti Levu, the largest island in Fiji, and became a popular tourist destination after the movie's release. Kelly Frears (Helen Hunt), Chuck’s girlfriend, identifies his location as being roughly 600 miles south of the Cook Islands. However, there is no land between Mangaia (the southernmost island in the Cooks) and Antarctica. The filming of the riveting story begins, and ends, in Texas' Panhandle region, near the city of Canadian, at the Arrington Ranch.

Fun Fact:

When production halted for a second time, before the team resumed filming the return scenes, director Robert Zemeckis shot another movie, What Lies Beneath, with the same film crew.

Chuck gives Moscow department a hard time scene in Cast Away

St. Basil's Cathedral, Red Square, Tverskoy District, Moscow, Russia

In 1995, Moscow was one of the settings of Hanks' performance as Chuck Noland as he traversed the globe fixing FedEx productivity problems. The particular scene was filmed at one of the multinational’s first international facilities. During the ‘90s, when the USSR was no more, Hollywood executives flooded Russia in droves to film in locations like Red Square. One of the most impressive sights there is St. Basil's Cathedral, built by Ivan the Terrible in 1555-61 as an expression of his strength and faith. It stands out with its intricate onion domes adorned with vibrant patterns, while inside it contains wonderful murals depicting stories from the Bible and portraits of Russian saints. Musicians can often be found outside playing folk songs, taking advantage of the cathedral's incredible acoustics. St. Basil's Cathedral is located in Moscow's Red Square in the Tverskoy District. Easily accessible by public transportation or taxi, you can be standing at the foot of this iconic architectural wonder in no time! For those savvy in the metro, Grabovoi Station is just two stops away from Belorusskaya railway terminus, place your rubles and begin your adventure! Buses are another option, with routes traveling up to Red Square in 10 minutes or less.

Filming Locations Search

Chuck receiving package scene in Cast Away

Brownstone Street, Backlot, Universal Studios - 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, California, USA

Chuck receives a package in the FedEx store, located near St. Basil's Cathedral and the Kremlin, or at least, that's what it looks like. As it turns out, though, the scene was shot at a Cast Away film set located at the backlot of Universal Studios Hollywood (California) in Brownstone Street! Universal City is home to the world-famous Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk. Having birthed several big-budget movies and TV shows, it's no wonder why this city continues to draw millions of visitors all throughout the year. From thrilling rides, interactive attractions, and daily live shows, to some of the most popular restaurants and shops in Los Angeles; Universal City truly has something for everyone. On top of all that, there are also amazing concerts, sporting events, and comedy shows that can be experienced in Universal City. From downtown Los Angeles, Universal Studios Hollywood is accessible via US-101N. Follow it to W.C. Fields Dr. and take exit 11B. Continue on the route until you get to Universal Studio Blvd. To get to Brownstone Street from the main entrance, simply take the escalator or elevator located behind the main set of stairs. Once you've arrived at Brownstone Street, feel free to take photos, admire the famous movie sets, and nod approvingly at all that Hollywood glamor!

West Hollywood Film Shoot Locations Scout

Chuck washing up on an inhabited island scene in Cast Away

92RQ+7V7, Monuriki, Fiji

As Chuck sails across the Pacific aboard a FedEx cargo plane, it encounters an intense storm that causes it to crash into the ocean. Miraculously, he is the only survivor and manages to escape with an inflatable life raft while regrettably losing his emergency locator transmitter in the process. The following day, fate sees him land on a remote island entirely bereft of inhabitants. The isolated island of Monu-Riki, where he spends four remarkable years living off the land, is a paradise found only by boat from Denarau Island. This heavenly slice of nature sits just off the coast of Viti Levu, Fiji's main island connected to Denarau by a causeway stretching into the ocean. Monuriki, a small islet in the Mamanuca Islands of Fiji, is an amazing destination to explore. Just a short boat ride away from the mainland, Monuriki is a picturesque paradise with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It's renowned for its stunning lagoons and coral reefs which make it a great spot for snorkeling and diving. Away from the sea, there are numerous hiking trails to uncover within the tropical forest of palm trees and diverse foliage, all perfect for taking in the secluded atmosphere. Travelers have two main options to reach the idyllic island paradise: by boat or air. By boat, visitors can take the popular "Election Special" ferry and cruise across beautiful tropical waters for about an hour, arriving in style at Likuri Island (the closest available port). Those who prefer a quicker journey can book a direct flight from either Nadi or Malolo Lailai airports; in less than 30 minutes they will be enjoying the charm of Monuriki! Whatever route you choose, make sure to visit soon: nothing compares with the real-life beauty of Monuriki!

Video Shoot Locations Exploration

Chuck returns to Kelly scene in Cast Away

74 Devon Way, Memphis, Tennessee, 38111, USA

Upon his return to society, a refreshed and shaven Chuck discovers that he was assumed dead by his family and friends. He is later welcomed home as a hero at the FedEx Headquarters in Memphis. There he finds out that Kelly has married and has a daughter. On a rainy night, Chuck goes to Kelly's house and is reunited with her. Despite their mutual love for each other, Chuck reminds Kelly of her duties to her new family. She gives him his old Jeep as they sadly part ways. Memphis, Tennessee is a truly unique city with plenty to explore. Home to Elvis Presley's legendary Graceland estate and the renowned Beale Street, a vibrant area dedicated to live music, this city has something for everyone. Memphis beckons you with its lists of attractions, like the National Civil Rights Museum at Lorraine Motel which commemorates civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., and Mud Island which is home to an impressive 5,000-square-foot model of the Mississippi River. Not forgetting Gibson Guitar Factory, Sun Studio, and a plethora of other interesting spots! Whether you're interested in discovering history or soaking up the local culture, there's something special in store for you when you visit Memphis. From Interstate 240 W, take Getwell Rd and S Goodlett St towards St Andrews Fairway. Continue onto Devon Way and you’ll reach 74 Devon Way, which is conveniently close to an array of popular attractions.

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Chuck delivers THE package scene in Cast Away

Arrington Ranch House Lodge, 9765 County Road Canadian, Texas, 79014, USA

Chuck takes a road trip to Texas, to take the unopened Federal Express package that saved his life back to its sender. Upon arriving, he sees nobody is home so leaves the package on the doorstep with a note expressing gratitude. Before departing in his truck, where yet another Wilson volleyball now sits firmly ensconced in the passenger seat, Chuck looks around one last time. Arrington Ranch House Lodge is the perfect tranquil rural retreat. Located in Fort Davis, Texas, this charming ranch house offers breathtaking mountain and valley views of the spectacular Davis Mountains State Park. Inside you'll find cozy accommodations with a rustic cabin feel and numerous amenities such as an outdoor fire pit and swimming pool, a garden pavilion, full kitchens, and much more. There's no better way to escape it all and explore west Texas than by staying at the Arrington Ranch House Lodge. Although it's now permanently closed, if you find yourself in the area, it is worth a peek. Head down to 9765 County Road and you'll find yourself amidst a setting that harkens back to the days of old. Once there, you can explore the scenic grounds of this peaceful lodge, truly a paradise for anyone in search of some quiet contemplation. Make your way to Canadian today and soon enough you'll be greeted by the familiar sight of the rustic Arrington Ranch House Lodge.

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Crossroad scene in Cast Away

Farm to Market Road 48 and 1268, Mobeetie, Texas, 79061, USA

Chuck gets to a crossroads in the middle of nowhere. A woman in a pickup truck stops to tell him about each of the roads ahead. As she drives away, Chuck sees an angel wing painted on the back of her truck, exactly like the one on the parcel he's delivering. He contemplates his choice, gradually gazing at the path that the woman has taken. A satisfied grin spreads across his face as he accepts what he must do. The movie starts and ends at a crossroads, showing the pivotal choices Chuck makes throughout. As per IMDb, this Cast Away scene was filmed at the intersection of Roads 48 and 1268 between Mobeetie and Canadian, Texas. If you visit the isolated area today, you'll find it has changed drastically in the two-plus decades since the film premiered. Nowadays you can see wind turbines in all directions. To get to FM1268, Mobeetie, TX 79061, simply follow US-83 S for 32 miles, turn left onto FM1268, and keep going for 4.2 miles. Oh, and don't forget to enjoy the beautiful Texas countryside as you drive along!

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Conclusion

Chuck Noland and Kelly Frears, who live together in Memphis, have been dating for a while but never married due to their conflicting work schedules, especially Chuck's, who often goes away on business trips. On Christmas Day 1995, the two exchange rings before Chuck leaves on yet another FedEx flight. Unfortunately, the plane encounters technical difficulties and crashes somewhere in the South Pacific. Chuck survives and washes up on an uninhabited island with some of the packages he was meant to deliver. Now he must focus on his survival, both physically and emotionally while searching for a way off the isolated island. With only a pocket watch containing Kelly's photo as his connection to her and his old life, Chuck goes through a rollercoaster of emotions as he attempts to get rescued. But if he ever does make it out of there, will Kelly still be waiting for him?