Where was Geronimo filmed?
1962
City Locations
Sonora, Durango, Zacatecas (Mexico)
Location Types
Film Studio, Riverside
Location Styles
Ranch Style, Southwestern, Rustic, Georgian/Southern, Dated/’50s-’60s-’70s
About Geronimo
Geronimo, a 1962 American Western directed by Arnold Laven, offers an engaging cinematic experience. The movie stars Chuck Connors in the title role, alongside other notable actors such as Kamala Devi, Armando Silvestre, Pat Conway, and Adam West. It was produced by Levy-Gardner-Laven and distributed by United Artists.
Set in 1880s Arizona, Geronimo recounts the remarkable life of the iconic Apache leader. It vividly portrays Geronimo's daring escape from his oppressive reservation, his rallying of forces in Mexico, and his valiant struggle against the United States. The film attempts to portray Geronimo sympathetically, marking a turning point in Hollywood's depiction of Native Americans during the early '60s. However, there is not a single Native American actor in the cast, with Caucasian actor Chuck Connors playing the role of the great chief.
While the film tries to be historically accurate, the story has several misconceptions. Notably, the film suggests that Geronimo was successful in obtaining fair treatment for all Native Americans at the hands of the U.S. government, which is not entirely accurate.
Geronimo succeeded at the box office despite these inaccuracies, grossing $300,000 in Japan alone. Actor Claudio Brook, who played Mr. Henry, even dubbed his voice for the Latin American Spanish version of the movie in Mexico.
Unfortunately, the film didn't win any significant awards. But its depiction of Geronimo and the portrayal of the historical events surrounding his life made it a memorable piece in the Western film genre.
Geronimo Locations
Geronimo (1962) is a captivating film that not only offers a glimpse into the life of a legendary Apache leader but also showcases some of Mexico's most stunning landscapes. Most filming occurred in Sierra de Órganos National Park in Sombrerete, Mexico. This location fit the bill due to its resemblance to the area where Geronimo and his Apache tribe sought refuge after being forced onto the San Carlos Reservation.
Sierra de Órganos National Park, with its dramatic rock formations and vast open spaces, served as an ideal backdrop for the movie, providing authenticity to the story. Organ-shaped, vertical rock formations characterize the park, hence the name. It offers a breathtaking view of the semi-arid region, surrounded by cacti and native fauna.
Additional filming occurred in Durango, Mexico, another city known for its rich history and beautiful natural landscapes. Durango has been a popular location for Western films due to its arid mountains, expansive deserts, and colonial architecture.
Estudios Churubusco, one of America's oldest and most significant film studios, hosted the production for the interior scenes. Located in Mexico City, this studio has been the production site for many notable films throughout history.
A trip to these locations would be worthwhile for fans of Geronimo or anyone interested in film history. Visitors can explore the rugged beauty of Sierra de Órganos National Park, stroll through the historic city of Durango, and even tour the famous Estudios Churubusco. The production of Geronimo (1962) used some of Mexico's most picturesque regions, creating a visually stunning film that continues to captivate audiences over half a century later.
The town scenes in Geronimo
Estudios Churubusco, C. Atletas 2, Country Club Churubusco, Coyoacán, 04210 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
The movie opens with the seemingly tranquil surrender of Geronimo (Chuck Connors) to the American military, symbolized by Captain William Maynard (Pat Conway). Although Geronimo is promised land, shelter, and sustenance, his betrayal intensifies as Maynard violates their agreement and proceeds to sell the land designated for the Apaches.
Within this context, one of the film's most iconic scenes unfolds, showcasing the palpable tension between Geronimo and Maynard while setting the stage for subsequent events. Like numerous others throughout the film, this particular scene is distinguished by captivating performances from the actors, most notably Connors, whose portrayal of Geronimo exudes a captivating intensity.
The interior scenes of the town were captured at Estudios Churubusco in Mexico, an esteemed and historic film studio. Estudios Churubusco has provided a backdrop for numerous notable productions, such as Romeo + Juliet, Amores Perros, and Bandidas. In a remarkable gesture to commemorate its 72nd anniversary in 2017, the studio opened its doors to the public for the first time, inviting visitors to delve into its illustrious history and remarkable contributions to the film industry.
To reach Estudios Churubusco in Mexico City, you have a few options. If you prefer public transportation, take Metro Lines 1, 2, or 3 and get off at the General Anaya station. From there, it's just a short 10-minute walk to the studio. Alternatively, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the studio if driving from the city center by taking Calz de Tlalpan.
Scouts seek out Geronimo scene in Geronimo
Gómez Palacio, Durango, Mexico
A memorable moment depicts compassionate scouts endeavoring to return Geronimo (Chuck Connors) to the reservation before he becomes the target of a pursuit. This particular scene effectively captures the tense ambiance of the era and illuminates the intricate dynamics between the different factions entangled in the conflict.
Some scenes were filmed at Gómez Palacio, a northeastern Durango, Mexico City. Gómez Palacio is known for its rich history and cultural attractions, including Victoria Park, Morelos Park, and the Eiffel Tower Durango. These landmarks and other parks and museums contribute to the city's unique charm and provide an atmosphere similar to that portrayed in the film.
For fans of Geronimo or those interested in exploring film history, a visit to Gómez Palacio would be worthwhile. If you're in Mexico City, fly to Francisco Sarabia International Airport in Torreón, Coahuila. From there, it's about a 19-minute drive to Gómez Palacio. If you're driving from Durango city, you can take Highway 40 for approximately two hours.
The battle against the American military scene in Geronimo
Sierra de Órganos National Park, Ejido, El Calabazal, Villa Insurgentes, Zac., Mexico
One of the movie's pivotal scenes involves Geronimo (Chuck Connors) leading the Apaches in a daring escape from captivity, aiming to reclaim their freedom. It leads to a large-scale battle against the American military, a tense and visually striking scene.
This crucial sequence came to life in Sierra de Órganos National Park in Sombrerete, Mexico. Located in the picturesque northwest corner of Sombrerete in Zacatecas, the park boasts an exceptional aridland ecosystem and awe-inspiring rock formations that are an integral part of the Sierra Madre Occidental. These towering structures, reminiscent of organ pipe cacti or the pipes of a musical instrument, give the park its name.
Sierra de Órganos is home to diverse wildlife, including several locally endemic plant and animal species. The park's stunning landscapes and rugged terrain make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and extreme sports fans. Rock climbing, hiking, and cycling enthusiasts enjoy the park.
If you're in Zacatecas City, take a bus (if possible) or drive along Highway 45 to reach Sombrerete, which takes approximately 2 hours. From there, the park is a short drive away. Visiting such a location provides a unique opportunity to step into the world of the film while appreciating Mexico's natural beauty.
Conclusion
Geronimo provides a distinctive viewpoint into the life of the renowned Apache leader, Geronimo. Despite being somewhat miscast as Geronimo due to his physical appearance, Connors, famous for his role in the well-known TV series The Rifleman, delivers a commendable performance. The writing quality optimizes word choice, structure, readability, and eloquence while maintaining the original meaning.
However, the script has faced criticism for presenting a sanitized version of history. It conveniently overlooks the atrocities committed by Geronimo against settlers and the injustices perpetrated by the U.S. government. Instead, it portrays Geronimo in a saintly light, creating a narrative resembling comic book history rather than accurately depicting historical events.
Despite these shortcomings, Geronimo does offer some redeeming qualities. The film stands out for its suspenseful narrative and focus on strategic battles. It delves deep into the cultural clash between the Apache Indians and the American and Mexican troops, providing a nuanced portrayal of his relationships with other characters.
Thanks to the picturesque Mexican filming locations, the appeal is in its stunning visuals. Sierra de Órganos National Park in Sombrerete, Mexico, provided the setting for most of the filming. With dramatic rock formations and vast open spaces, this location adds an authentic backdrop to the story.
Geronimo holds significance in the realm of the movie industry for its portrayal of Native American history, albeit with a touch of romanticization. Despite its historical inaccuracies, the film has mesmerized audiences for over fifty years, standing as a testament to its enduring allure.
In conclusion, Geronimo is worth watching for those interested in Western films and the portrayal of Native American history in cinema. The film has flaws but offers suspenseful storytelling, engaging performances, and breathtaking visuals.