Where was Eureka filmed?
1983
City Locations
Florida (USA); Vancouver (Canada); Borehamwood, Twickenham (UK); Jamaica
Location Types
Film Studio, Riverside
Location Styles
Beachfront, Mountain Huts, Colonial, American Art Deco
About Eureka
Eureka is an unusual, twisted movie that explores the themes of obsession and avarice, guiding us through a complex narrative to deliver a straightforward moral: Wealth cannot purchase affection. It is a 1983 British-American drama film directed by Nicolas Roeg and starring Theresa Russell, Gene Hackman, Joe Pesci, Rutger Hauer, and Mickey Rourke. The movie was released in the United States in November 1983.
The plot of Eureka follows Jack McCann (Gene Hackman), a former gold prospector who made his fortune from a rich deposit he found in the Canadian wilderness. He moves to an isolated island to cope with the depression and paranoia brought on by his wealth. After thirty years of seclusion, McCann's life is disrupted when organized criminals appear on his island, wanting to build a casino on his property. When pressed to protect his family and property from these criminals, McCann's efforts become increasingly desperate until culminating in an extended public trial.
Eureka is among the top five all-time favorite films of acclaimed director Danny Boyle. Musician Jim O'Rourke also chose the name of this film as the title for his album, Eureka. Initially, the movie was assigned an X rating in the United States due to its explicit displays of violence. It was later given a restricted release in Los Angeles in the autumn of 1984. Unfortunately, the film did not perform well at the box office and received a mixed response from critics.
Eureka Locations
The 1983 film Eureka was a large production, tapping into different parts of the world to capture its breathtaking visuals. From the scenic mountaintops of Mount Williams in Canada, Jamaica's lush tropical landscapes, the bustling streets of Miami, and iconic Twickenham Film Studios in England - Eureka had it all.
Most scenes were shot in the historically rich Kirkland Lake in Ontario, where Sir Harry Oakes discovered gold, making him a wealthy man. Here, you can find Government Road paved with gold due to an error in construction when using the wrong pile of rocks. The backdrop is filled with picturesque scenery, such as rolling hills, pastel-colored homes, and quaint cafes beneath a majestic blue sky. Further up north, travelers can find themselves at Mount Williams, surrounded by rugged terrain and snow-capped mountains, setting the stage for some dramatic scenes during principal photography.
A trip to these stunning locations for Eureka would be more than worthwhile, as these hidden gems will surely leave any traveler mesmerized by their beauty. With so much natural beauty on display, one could easily get lost in the landscape and appreciate each location for what it offers while learning about its history and culture along the way.
Fun Fact
The title of this film holds dual significance. Initially, it alludes to the exclamation often uttered by a prospector upon hitting a gold vein, mirroring the experience of Jack McCann (Gene Hackman) in this movie. Subsequently, due to his newfound wealth, McCann christens his luxurious Jamaican residence, Eureka.
Jack McCann finds the gold scene in Eureka
Kirkland Lake, ON, Canada
The story unfolds with a pivotal opening scene in which the protagonist, Jack (Gene Hackman), serendipitously discovers an unforeseen fortune. He falls through a glacier and discovers a hidden vault of gold beneath. This discovery catapults him into the ranks of the world's wealthiest individuals. However, upon returning, which now appears eerily vacant and run-down, he encounters Frieda (Helena Kallianiotes) alone in the parlor, on the brink of death.
This striking sequence was filmed in the mining community of Kirkland Lake, Ontario. The town is known for significantly contributing to Canada's gold production, accounting for one-fifth of it. Intriguingly, its main street, Government Road, is paved with gold due to a construction error where gold ore was used instead of waste rock. While the exact film decorations may no longer be present, fans can still visit this rustic location and soak in the unique atmosphere.
To reach Kirkland Lake, Ontario, you can fly into Toronto Pearson International Airport and then take a domestic flight to Timmins Victor M. Power Airport. From there, it's approximately a two-hour drive to Kirkland Lake. Alternatively, if you prefer a scenic road trip, you could drive directly from Toronto, which would take approximately six hours.
Jack's island scenes in Eureka
Miami, Florida, USA
Twenty years later, Jack (Gene Hackman) lives in a lavish estate named Eureka on a Caribbean island he owns by 1945. Despite his wealth, Jack struggles with various personal issues. He deals with Helen (Jane Lapotaire), his dissatisfied, alcoholic wife; Tracy (Theresa Russell), his strong-willed daughter who has wedded Claude Van Horn (Rutger Hauer), a degenerate social aspirant; Charles Perkins (Ed Lauter), his paranoid assistant; and mobsters from Miami led by Aurelio D'Amato (Mickey Rourke), dispatched by crime boss Mayakofsky (Joe Pesci), who covets Jack's island for a casino.
The scenes featuring the grand mansion, the yacht, and the beach were shot in Miami and Jamaica. Fans of the film can experience the same atmosphere by visiting Montego Bay, a popular tourist city in the Caribbean located on Jamaica's north coast.
Meanwhile, Miami offers many experiences with its beautiful beaches, lively cultural scene, rich history, and unique neighborhoods. Miami is a dynamic and fun destination, from the renowned Art Deco architecture in South Beach to the street art in Wynwood and the exhilarating nightlife to the serene Everglades.
To visit these locations, you can fly into Miami International Airport if you're heading to Miami. The city boasts numerous sightseeing tours that encompass its iconic spots. If you wish to visit Montego Bay in Jamaica, flights are typically available to Sangster International Airport. From there, the city offers various accommodations and attractions, providing a glimpse into the luxurious life portrayed in Eureka.
Pete burns Jack in the bed scene in Eureka
Elstree Film Studios, Shenley Rd, Borehamwood, UK
There is a particularly gruesome scene where Pete (Joe Spinell), in a brutal display of violence, bludgeons Jack (Gene Hackman) with a wrench before meticulously burning him alive with a blowtorch as he lies helpless in his bed. Both, Claude (Rutger Hauer), who returns to the house amidst the chaos, and Charles Perkins (Ed Lauter), sleeping in an adjacent bedroom, witness this horrific act.
This chilling sequence was filmed at the Elstree Film Studios in the UK. Known for its rich cinematic history, Elstree has played host to many iconic productions. However, it's important to note that Elstree is a working studio, so respecting the productions' privacy is crucial.
While the exact sets used may not be open for public viewing, Elstree does offer space for hire. If you're looking to host an event with a unique twist, they have areas available for gatherings ranging from intimate parties of 50 to larger receptions for 500.
To get to Elstree Film Studios, if you're traveling from within the UK, you can take a train to Elstree & Borehamwood station, which is served by Thameslink trains from London St Pancras International and is only a short taxi ride or walk from the studios. If you're coming from overseas, you can fly into any of London's major airports and take a train or taxi to the studios.
Conclusion
Eureka (1983) enthralls its viewers with a fascinating plot and profound psychological undertones. The performances, mainly Hackman's, are commendable for their mesmerizing intensity and depth. Roeg's distinctive storytelling approach, which masterfully intertwines vivid images, recollections, shocks, and thoughtful reflections, offers a visually rich experience that enhances the intricacy of the narrative.
Eureka is a testament to the power of diverse filming locations in enhancing cinematic storytelling. The filmmakers strategically utilized a global palette, seamlessly blending the distinct atmospheres of Florida, Vancouver, Borehamwood, Twickenham, and Jamaica to craft a visually captivating narrative.
Florida set the stage for the film's early moments with its sun-drenched landscapes, creating a sense of opulence and extravagance. Vancouver, in turn, brought an air of mystery and intrigue to the plot with its urban allure and cinematic prowess. The British locales of Borehamwood and Twickenham introduced a sense of historical gravitas and sophistication, adding depth to the characters and their dilemmas. Lastly, the exotic allure of Jamaica infused the film with an intoxicating vibrancy and a sense of adventure.
These meticulously chosen filming locations in Eureka served as backdrops and integral storytelling elements, enriching the film's narrative tapestry. The fusion of these global settings contributed to the film's lasting impact, leaving audiences with a cinematic experience transcending borders and eras.
Even though Eureka didn't achieve box office success and garnered mixed reactions from critics, its distinctive combination of drama, suspense, and powerful performances makes it a must-watch for those who appreciate cinema that transcends typical mainstream narratives.