Where was Hondo filmed?
1953
City Locations
Chihuahua, Sonora (Mexico); Arizona, Utah (USA)
Location Types
Church, Riverside, Ranch
Location Styles
Ranch Style, Americana/Anywhere, Spanish, Retreat, Georgian/Southern, Southwestern
About Hondo
John Wayne's film Hondo is considered one of his finest works. Regrettably, it was not readily accessible for long, and it became overshadowed and forgotten mainly as Wayne's epics with John Ford gained more recognition. Released by Wayne's production company, Wayne-Fellows Productions, Hondo leaves a lasting impression with its compelling screenplay derived from Louis L'Amour's 1952 short story "The Gift of Cochise." With supporting performances by Ward Bond, Leo Gordon, and James Arness, the film unfolds a riveting narrative in stunning Warnercolor 3D format.
Hondo introduces audiences to Hondo Lane, a US Army Cavalry dispatch rider, played by John Wayne, who connects unexpectedly with homesteader Angie Lowe (Geraldine Page) and her son. Their tranquil existence, however, is shattered as they face the threat of an Apache attack, ushering in a wave of suspense and drama.
The film received widespread acclaim for its performances. Geraldine Page's portrayal of Angie Lowe is particularly noteworthy, earning her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Pioneering in its 3D format, Hondo offers breathtaking wide shots of the Mexican desert, enriching the visual storytelling. Overcoming production hurdles and the waning popularity of 3D films at the time of release, Hondo emerged victorious at the box office, generating a strong $4.1 million.
Though Hondo did not garner any major awards, it is a significant entry in John Wayne's filmography and often gets cited as one of the finest Westerns of the 1950s. A thorough frame-by-frame digital restoration in 2005, overseen by Wayne's son Michael, reinforced Its enduring relevance and appeal. Hondo continues to be prized today for its gripping story, outstanding performances, and noteworthy contribution to the Western film genre.
Hondo Locations
Various visually stunning and culturally rich locations provided backdrops for the Warnercolor 3D Western, making the backdrop as compelling as the storyline. Camargo, Chihuahua, Mexico, provided the primary setting for most scenes with the Mexican government's cooperation. The movie crew often journeyed to El Paso, using the Plaza Theater for Sunday morning screenings.
Significant scenes, such as the army camp sequence, were shot at the historic Church of San Francisco de Asís in San Francisco de Conchos, Chihuahua, adding a layer of authenticity to the narrative. Similarly, Big Bear Lake, known for its serene beauty, served as the canvas for the Apache village, enhancing the film's overall aesthetic appeal.
The filming journey also took the crew to the picturesque landscapes of Snow Canyon State Park and Skull Valley in Utah. Additionally, they ventured to Patagonia and Sedona in Arizona, capturing the unique beauty these regions offer.
Given the diverse and captivating locales used, a trip tracing Hondo's filming locations would be worthwhile for any film enthusiast or traveler. It offers a glimpse into the making of the film but also an opportunity to explore and appreciate these stunning landscapes firsthand.
Fun Facts:
Due to Geraldine Page's sensitivity to sunlight, she could only bear sun exposure for brief periods. Filming happened near Camargo in the Mexican desert, where temperatures soared to 126 degrees.
Lane approaches the ranch scenes in Hondo
Camargo, Chihuahua, Mexico
The film opens with a scene set at an isolated ranch in the New Mexico desert. Angie Lowe (Geraldine Page), a homesteader, and her young son Johnny (Lee Aaker) stumble upon a stranger (John Wayne) drinking water from their river. Carrying only a saddle and a rifle, the man only discloses his last name — Lane. He further shares that he is of Apache descent and has been surveying the Indian Territory as a scout for the US Army Cavalry.
Due to its geographic positioning, this iconic scene was filmed in the rugged beauty of the Mexican desert in Camargo, Chihuahua — an area known as "La Perla de Conchos." The region boasts a unique blend of human and natural wealth, making it an ideal filming location. , Camargo City offers diverse scenic backdrops, from historical temples, gardens, and recreational areas to public squares and monuments.
To visit this location, fly into General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport in Chihuahua City. From there, you can take a bus or drive to Camargo, approximately 96 miles south. Alternatively, you can take a direct flight to Francisco Sarabia National Airport, near Camargo, and drive or take local transport to reach the city.
The Army camp scene in Hondo
Iglesia San Francisco de Asís, 33680 San Francisco de Conchos, Chihuahua, Mexico
Hondo (John Wayne) establishes a campsite near a river. However, detecting the proximity of three Indians, he abandons the site. Lowe (Leo Gordon) and his ally stumble into the camp, only to be ambushed by two Indians. Lowe's companion dies in the attack, but Hondo intervenes just in time, shooting an Apache (Chuck Roberson) who is on the verge of killing Lowe. Initially, Lowe is thankful for Hondo's intervention, but his gratitude soon turns to resentment as he recalls an earlier altercation at a bar. It leads Lowe to confront Hondo, forcing Hondo to defend himself, resulting in Lowe's death.
The San Francisco de Assisi Mission Church in Chihuahua, Mexico, provided the backdrop for this scene. Completed in 1816, this grand Spanish Colonial church showcases massive adobe buttresses and twin bell towers that face the front. The architectural design seamlessly blends native and Spanish styles, with three white crosses gracing the two towers and the church entranceway.
For fans wishing to visit this historic filming location, it is in the Mexican desert state of Chihuahua, in the San Francisco de Conchos region. From Chihuahua, it's possible to take a car to the location, and the trip will take 2 hours via México 45 and México 45D.
Hondo teaches Johny at the river scene in Hondo
Big Bear Lake, California, USA
Hondo (John Wayne) grapples with revealing the truth about Johnny's father (Leo Gordon). In an attempt to connect with the boy (Lee Aaker), Hondo teaches him how to fish and shares his wisdom about life. This emotionally charged sequence provides a glimpse into Hondo's compassionate side and his knack for mentoring.
The captivating scene was captured at Big Bear Lake, providing a remarkable setting for the Apache village in the film. Nestled in Southern California, Big Bear Lake is a picturesque destination known for its breathtaking mountain lake retreat throughout all four seasons. The locale is within the renowned San Bernardino National Forest and offers exceptional snowboarding, fishing, hiking, skiing, and mountain biking opportunities.
For a breathtaking journey from Phoenix or Las Vegas to Big Bear Lake, drive through the picturesque heart of Southern California. This enchanting route winds through the captivating San Bernardino National Forest, offering awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. While public transportation is an option, renting a car is highly recommended for a more convenient and delightful experience.
Apaches attacked Hondo scene in Hondo
San Francisco de Conchos, Chihuahua, Mexico
Silva-led Apaches attacked Hondo (John Wayne) and his group. In response, they form a defensive circle with their wagons. Despite being encircled twice, they manage to escape each time. However, the relentless Apaches continue their pursuit. Having lost his horse, Silva (Rodolfo Acosta) attacks Hondo. In a turn of events, Hondo kills Silva and recovers Lt. McKay's (Tom Irish) uniform shirt from his body, leading the Apaches to retreat and choose a new chief.
This riveting scene came to life during the summer of 1953 in the San Francisco de Conchos area in the desert state of Chihuahua, Mexico. Nowadays, this region is known for attractions such as Lago Colina and spring pools, including Los Filtros. The lush area is known for its thriving agriculture and abundant fishing prospects.
Nestled within the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, awe-inspiring landscapes surround San Francisco de Conchos, including the stunning Lake La Boquilla and the majestic Copper Canyon. As you traverse this hidden gem, you can immerse yourself in the rich indigenous heritage of the Tarahumara people, visit historic landmarks like the San Francisco de Asis Church, and savor traditional Mexican cuisine.
To reach San Francisco de Conchos, fly into General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport in Chihuahua. You can rent a car or take a bus to the region from there. The drive takes approximately 3 hours via México 45 and México 45D.
Conclusion
Hondo (1953) delivers an intriguing narrative, solid acting performances, and visually compelling settings, making it a noteworthy entry into the Western genre. The film sometimes leans into the 3D filming gimmick popular at the time, with characters frequently thrusting objects toward the camera, reminiscent of Creature from the Black Lagoon.
John Wayne's portrayal of Hondo Lane is engaging and nuanced, contrasting his role as the racist Ethan Edwards in The Searchers (1956). While The Searchers may be considered a superior movie due to John Ford's masterful direction, Wayne's performance in Hondo stands out for its depth and complexity.
The film came to life across various stunning locations, including Camargo, Chihuahua, Mexico, Snow Canyon State Park, Skull Valley in Utah, and Patagonia and Sedona in Arizona. These diverse backdrops add a rich visual dimension to the film, enhancing the storyline and immersing the audience in the narrative.
Hondo stands out for its mature approach to the Western genre. Rather than presenting a simple battle of good versus evil, it explores the conflicting interests between different groups. The Apache chief, Vittorio, is portrayed as a fair and just leader, adding depth to the film's portrayal of Native Americans. Additionally, the film features impressive stunt work, fast-paced horse chases, and a unique canine companion for the hero. Its sympathetic portrayal of the Apache people and the ending, where Wayne and Page flee not from the Apaches but from the gossip of white settlers, gives Hondo a distinctive flavor within the genre.
Hondo is a well-crafted film with stellar performances, a compelling script, and a visually stunning backdrop. It's a testament to the power of location in storytelling and a noteworthy example of the Western genre's potential for depth and complexity.