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Descendants movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Descendants filmed?

2015

City Locations

Vancouver, Victoria (Canada)

Location Types

Mansion, Museum, Riverside

Location Styles

Colonial, Castle, Tudor, Victorian, Dilapidated

About Descendants

The film stands out with a more robust and confident narrative compared to many recent live-action musicals aimed at younger audiences that Disney has presented. It is adorned with many vibrant visuals and features various songs from Broadway to rap. Descendants, a 2015 Disney Channel Original Movie, is directed by Kenny Ortega and stars Sofia Carson, Dove Cameron, Cameron Boyce, and Booboo Stewart.

The film chronicles the adventures of the mischievous teenage children of renowned Disney villains. These youngsters are offered an opportunity for redemption when they are released from the restricted Isle of the Lost and permitted to attend a prep school alongside the descendants of the Fairy Godmother (Melanie Paxson), Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Mulan. The narrative tracks the teens as they navigate their new life beyond their island confinement while clandestinely planning to snatch the Fairy Godmother's wand and liberate their parents from imprisonment.

Critics generally had positive views of Descendants. According to Isabella Biedenharn's review in Entertainment Weekly, the film received a "B" grade. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film has a 7.67/10 rating, and 90% of the ten critic reviews were positive. Descendants also garnered numerous award nominations. Among these were Teen Choice Awards for Choice Movie TV Song (Shawn Mendes – "Believe") and the 68th Primetime Emmy Awards for Original Dramatic Score (David Lawrence). Further, it achieved notable recognition by winning the Directors Guild of America Award in 2016 for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in a Children's Program, credited to Kenny Ortega.

Descendants Locations

The Disney Descendants franchise is a beloved film series that has delighted viewers worldwide. Those who are fans of the movies may be interested in learning about the various locations used to produce the 2015 movie, Descendants. Most scenes were shot in Canada, particularly in two prominent locales: Victoria and Vancouver.

Victoria provided stunning backdrops to many of the scenes throughout the movie. Hatley Castle was used to depict Auradon Prep, while other Government buildings, such as the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, also appeared in memorable scenes. Compared to this regal environment, Vancouver was often utilized for its rougher terrains, such as the suspension bridge at Lynn Canyon Park and 30 Foot Pool.

These two cities provide distinct visuals for viewers to enjoy and make a trip to these locations well worth it. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan of the series, exploring some areas featured in this classic Disney movie can be pleasant. Every corner offers something new - from breathtaking views atop Lynn Canyon Park's suspension bridge to historical sites like Hatley Castle, making any trip an unforgettable experience.

The streets of the Isle of Lost scene in Descendants

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

The movie has great musical numbers, colorful costumes and sets, and impressive visuals. It has been praised for its unique premise, strong performances by its young cast, and captivating storyline. One particularly iconic moment is when Evie (Sofia Carson), Jay (Booboo Stewart), Carlos (Cameron Boyce), and Mal (Dove Cameron) all come together to sign "Rotten to the Core." This catchy number encapsulates their rebellious spirit while also showcasing their lovable personalities.

The scene on the island showcases the contrast between life on Auradon and life on the Isle of the Lost. The streets of Vancouver were used to create a magical and surreal atmosphere, with furniture and appliances made to look worn and old. When Maleficent (Kristin Chenoweth) commands her minions to find the Fairy Godmother's (Melanie Paxson) wand, it reminds them of how different life can be when you have no hope or options.

Scenes of the Isle of Lost was filmed in Vancouver, Canada, and its surrounding areas. Mark Hofeling was essential for creating a believable fantasy world from Vancouver's streets. He managed to transform the city into a realm that fits perfectly with the villainous themes and atmosphere of the movie.

One can fly directly to Vancouver International Airport or any nearby airport like Bellingham International Airport or Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. From there, one can use public transportation like buses or taxis within the city limits. Visitors can soak up the city's atmosphere and explore various locations around Vancouver.

Mal, Evie, Carlos, and Jay arrive at Auradon Prep scenes in Descendants

Hatley Castle, 2005 Sooke Rd, Victoria, BC, Canada

Upon their arrival at Auradon Prep, the quartet encounters Ben (Mitchell Hope) and his declared girlfriend, Audrey (Sarah Jeffery), the daughter of Princess Aurora and Prince Phillip. They also meet the Fairy Godmother (Melanie Paxson), the school's headmistress. Using her mother's compact magic mirror, Evie (Sofia Carson) pinpoints the wand's location in a nearby museum. Mal (Dove Cameron) employs her mother's spinning wheel from the museum to lull the security guard into sleep. However, their attempt to steal the wand is thwarted by a protective barrier surrounding it.

The exterior of Auradon Prep was filmed at Hatley Castle, located in Victoria, Canada. This incredible castle was purchased by James Dunsmuir and his wife Laura Anne in 1906 on the grounds of an old farmhouse and designed by Samuel Maclure in the Scottish baronial style. The historic site encompasses vast grounds with formal gardens, past farmland, and trails traversing through mature stands of first and second-growth forests. The forest boasts large Douglas fir and western red cedar trees.

Reaching Hatley Castle is relatively simple via car or public transit. If you're coming from Victoria, follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N toward View Royal. Proceed along Island Hwy/Old Island Hwy S until you reach College Dr in Colwood, then continue on this road until you arrive at the castle. If you prefer public transportation, board the #95 bus from downtown Victoria towards Colwood. Disembark at the Goldstream at Sooke Rd bus stop.

Mal and Ben on the bridge scene in Descendants

Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, 3663 Park Rd, North Vancouver, BC, Canada

The scene on the bridge occurred between Mal (Dove Cameron), daughter of Maleficent (Kristin Chenoweth), and Ben (Mitchell Hope), son of Beast (Dan Payne), during their first date. It is a pivotal moment in the movie where their relationship is strengthened as Ben realizes his feelings for her.

The location where this scene was filmed is Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver, British Columbia. This bridge sits in the middle of a lush rainforest with beautiful old-growth trees along both sides of it, and there are even some rapids visible from across the canyon. The bridge is narrower than Capilano Suspension Bridge, creating a cozy atmosphere ideal for their date. While the site welcomes visitors, the bridge is free to access.

Getting to Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is easy. It only takes about 20 minutes by car or around an hour by public transportation from Vancouver. Plenty of buses run directly from Downtown Vancouver to Lynn Valley Centre, just a short walk from Lynn Canyon Park and Bridge.

Ben and Mal’s date at the enchanted lake scene in Descendants

30-Foot Pool, 2H9, Baden Powell Trail, North Vancouver, BC, Canada

The picnic date scene is set at the Enchanted Lake, a tranquil and beautiful spot surrounded by towering trees and lush foliage. This is where Ben (Mitchell Hope) and Mal (Dove Cameron) share a picnic before Ben takes a swim. As Mal watches him, she sings about her confused feelings for him in the song "If Only." When he appears to be drowning, she jumps in to save him despite being unable to swim. In this moment of peril, their love blossoms as they realize their true feelings for each other.

The location for this pivotal scene was a 30-Foot Pool in North Vancouver, Canada. Located on the Baden Powell Trail near Lynn Valley Road, 30-Foot Pool is an idyllic spot nestled between lush greenery and towering rocks, perfect for a picturesque picnic. The lake is filled with crystal clear waters that perfectly reflect the surrounding nature, making it easy to see why Disney chose it as the perfect place for Ben and Mal’s romantic encounter.

If you're traveling from downtown Vancouver to the 30-Foot Pool, you can opt for a bus towards Lynn Valley Centre. The 30 Foot Pool lies en route to the Pipe Bridge, which spans the canyon and leads up to Lynn Valley Road. If your destination is the Pipe Bridge, brace yourself for an extensive ascent via a wooden stairwell to the canyon's peak. Along the stairwell, an observation point offers a splendid view of the 30 Foot Pool and its neighboring scenery.

Maleficent crashes the coronation scene in Descendants

Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, 501 Belleville St., Victoria, Canada

In the climactic scene, Maleficent (Kristin Chenoweth) disrupts a coronation ceremony, creating havoc by freezing everyone except herself and four youngsters. Maleficent morphs into a fire-breathing dragon when they resist her, setting the stage for an intense showdown between good and evil. The scene reaches its zenith when Mal (Dove Cameron) casts a counterspell that transforms Maleficent into a harmless lizard, a transformation determined by the amount of love in her heart. As everyone gradually unfreezes, Mal returns the Fairy Godmother's (Melanie Paxson) wand to her and pleads for mercy on Jane's (Brenna D'Amico) behalf.

The scene was filmed at the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Canada. This historic neo-baroque building features stunning architectural details, such as a statue of Queen Victoria on its front lawn and a cenotaph commemorating the province’s war dead. On top of its central dome is an impressive gold-covered statue of Captain George Vancouver. Free guided tours are also open year-round, offering insight into this impressive building's rich history and beauty.

The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia can be easily accessed by car or public transport from anywhere in Victoria City. If traveling by car, visitors must take Government Street until they reach Belleville Street, where ample parking is nearby. For those traveling via public transport, there are multiple bus stops just minutes away from this location, with routes available from most parts of town.

Conclusion

Descendants is a delightful Disney movie that offers a modern spin on classic villains. The script is fun and humorous while showcasing important loyalty and friendship themes. Additionally, the idea of having villainous characters become protagonists is an innovative concept that uniquely contributes to the movie industry.

As we conclude our journey exploring the stunning filming locations of the popular movie franchise Descendants, we are left in awe of the enchanting backdrops that brought the fantastical world of Auradon and the Isle of the Lost to life. From breathtaking castles to picturesque coastal towns, every location in Canada adds a layer of magic to the story.

The filming locations chosen for Descendants play an integral role in creating a fantastical universe in which viewers can immerse themselves. The majestic castles, charming coastal towns, eerie Isle of the Lost, and historical landmarks all contribute to the magic and allure of the series. As we watch the adventures and struggles of the beloved characters, we can't help but be captivated by the enchanting backdrop that transports us to a world where fairy tales and reality intertwine.