Where was Hostiles filmed?
2017
City Locations
Santa Fe, NM
Location Types
Ranch
Location Styles
Ranch Style, Desert, Cabin, Spanish
About Hostiles
Scott Cooper directed the American Western thriller film Hostiles, which was released in 2017. Christian Bale plays a renowned army captain who reluctantly agrees to carry a dying Cheyenne war chief and his family back to their home area. The film is set around 1892 and depicts both sides of the Indian-settler conflict accurately and realistically. In order to survive on the tough and dangerous journey across the gorgeous Western landscapes, the characters must confront their anxieties and prejudices. They also must deal with aggressive Comanches and wild outliers.
One thing that makes the movie stand out is how fairly it shows the relationship between Indians and settlers. This gives us a nuanced and thought-provoking look at past conflicts. This approach sets Hostiles apart by giving the standard Western genre a new and interesting spin.
The film has a 71% approval rating based on 225 reviews, with a weighted average of 6.8/10 on Rotten Tomatoes. The website's critical consensus states, "Hostiles benefits from stunning visuals and a solid central performance from Christian Bale, both of which help elevate its uneven story." The film has a weighted average score of 65 out of 100 on Metacritic, based on 41 critics, indicating "generally favorable reviews". Audiences polled by CinemaScore gave the picture an average grade of "B," while PostTrak claimed that 72% of filmgoers liked it.
Overall, Hostiles captivates spectators with its passionate and emotionally charged story, breathtaking photography, and powerful acting, making it a must-see for Western enthusiasts and those who enjoy thought-provoking storytelling.
Hostiles Locations
Hostiles, a gripping western film directed by Scott Cooper, highlights North America's magnificent vistas. The film was shot in a variety of magnificent locations throughout New Mexico and Arizona, each adding its own particular charm to the visual experience.
The majority of the scenes were shot in New Mexico, which is famous for having a wide range of landscapes. The most important places were Santa Fe and Angel Fire. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains circle Angel Fire, which is in the Moreno Valley. These mountains make scenes outside of Angel Fire look more grand. Santa Fe has a lot of history, unique adobe buildings, and a lively arts scene. Arizona's harsh deserts were also used to make the movie's frontier setting more realistic.
Exploring these filming sites should be a fun and educational experience. They not only let people get a feel for what it's like to be in the movie, but they also allow you to explore some of the most beautiful and interesting places in the United States. The places where Hostiles takes place are full of natural beauty and cultural importance, so it’s well worth checking them out for yourself.
The Butte station scene in Hostiles
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, 500 Terrace Ave, Chama, NM 87520, United States
During Hostiles, we see the characters confront their past and present, with the station serving as a metaphorical platform for their emotional journey. The interactions are fraught with intensity, reflecting the internal struggles and external conflicts they're grappling with. The Butte station scene is a testament to the film's meticulous craftsmanship, from the stunning cinematography that captures the grim beauty of the location to the nuanced performances that convey the complex emotions of the characters.
This scene was filmed on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, a National Historic Landmark that offers an authentic steam-era mountain railroad experience. Spanning 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado, this scenic railway zig-zags across state borders 11 times, tunnels through canyon walls, and traverses high plains and deep forests. The ride offers spectacular views and photo opportunities, and the courteous staff ensures a relaxing journey that gives a real feel for the historic Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad.
To reach this location from Santa Fe, head north on US-84 W. The 100-mile journey should take around two hours.
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Riding through the Badlands scene in Hostiles
Ghost Ranch, 280 Private Drive 1708 Highway, US-84, Abiquiu, NM 87510, United States
The characters soon traverse through the Badlands. The Badlands, with their rugged rock pinnacles, buttes, and mounds serve as an imposing backdrop for this journey. The characters ride through the desolate landscape, which is both hauntingly beautiful and intimidating. As they navigate the twisting curves and passes in the Badlands “wall,” there's a palpable sense of tension, echoing the hostile environment around them. This scene underscores the film's themes of survival and human resilience in the face of adversity.
This scene was filmed at Ghost Ranch. Located near the village of Abiquiú in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, this ranch is a 21,000-acre retreat and education center. Known for its breathtaking landscapes that have inspired many artists including Georgia O'Keeffe, it offers an array of transformative retreats and educational programs. Activities like hiking, tours, trail rides, and museum visits contribute to an enriching experience. The spectacular view from the top overlooks the valley and Abiquiu Reservoir, making it a popular destination.
To visit Ghost Ranch at 280 Private Drive 1708 Highway, US-84, Abiquiu, NM, travel north from Santa Fe on US-84 W. Journey for about 60 miles to reach your destination. This scenic route offers a glimpse into the stunning landscapes that characterize Northern New Mexico.
Fort Winslow scene in Hostiles
Robinson Plateau, Colorado 81252, USA
Upon reaching Fort Winslow, the team leaves the injured Woodson (Jonathan Majors) behind and Blocker (Christian Bale) tries to arrange for Rosalee (Rosamund Pike) to stay with the commanding officer of the fort. However, she decides to continue with the group. Blocker receives orders to escort the dishonored sergeant, Philip Wills (Ben Foster), who faces hanging for deserting Fort Pierce and killing a Native family. Corporal Thomas (Paul Anderson) and Sergeant Malloy (Ryan Bingham) from the fort join Blocker's team to supervise Wills, who rebukes both Blocker and the Natives.
Robinson Plateau is a scenic geographic feature in Custer County, Colorado. With an elevation of 9,295 feet, the plateau offers stunning views and rugged landscapes. It's located close to the hamlets of Querida and Rosita, adding to its charm. The area is known for its outdoor activities, with opportunities for hiking and horseback riding. Its unique topography has even made it a filming location for movies. The plateau's natural beauty and tranquility make it a must-visit destination.
To reach Robinson Plateau in Colorado, begin at the city of Westcliffe. You’ll need to take CO-96 E, with your destination located approximately 10 miles to the east.
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River fording scene in Hostiles
Rio Chama, Abiquiu, New Mexico, USA
For the main characters, crossing the river is a metaphor for the trip and the problems they have to solve together. As they try to stay afloat in the fast-moving water, they are tested both physically and mentally, which shows how strong and determined the characters are. Their shared fight with the hostile environment brings them closer together and makes them stronger in the face of hardship.
The Rio Chama, a significant tributary of the Rio Grande, flows through Colorado and New Mexico. Its course is approximately 130 miles (210 km) long, beginning in the southern San Juan Mountains of Colorado and merging with the Rio Grande near Española, New Mexico. The river carves a beautiful multi-colored sandstone canyon, with walls reaching up to 1,500 feet high. It is not only a natural wonder but also a popular place for recreation.
To get to Rio Chama in Abiquiu, New Mexico, take US-84 W from Santa Fe and head toward Española. Follow the signs for Abiquiu as you stay on US-84 W. Once you get to Abiquiu, follow the signs to Rio Chama, which is near where several big roads in the area meet.
Arriving in Montana scene in Hostiles
Wet Mountain Valley, Colorado 81252, USA
Just as the group reaches the tribal lands in Montana, Yellow Hawk (Wes Studi) breathes his last. His burial takes place there. As Blocker and the others get ready to depart, they are confronted by a rancher and his three sons. The rancher claims ownership of the land and demands that Blocker and the rest of the group leave, taking with them the body of the chief.
The Wet Mountain Valley, mostly located in Custer County, Colorado, is a high-elevation valley extending into Huerfano County. It's a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for fishing, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, hunting, hiking, and climbing. The valley is bordered by the Wet Mountains to the east and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the west, offering breathtaking scenic views. The area is also known for its rich history and authentic Colorado adventures.
To visit the scenic Wet Mountain Valley in Colorado, start from Colorado Springs. The 80-mile journey to the southwest should take around one hour and 40 minutes.
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Conclusion
Hostiles, directed by Scott Cooper, unfolds against the backdrop of diverse and visually captivating locations that enrich the narrative. The film's setting primarily takes place in New Mexico, where the landscapes of Angel Fire, Santa Fe, and other areas in the state serve as a stunning portrayal of the American frontier in 1892. The rugged deserts, majestic mountains, and expansive open spaces authentically capture the untamed beauty of the time period. These locations provide a compelling visual backdrop that anchors the film to its historical context, enhancing the emotional depth and intensity of the story. Exploring the diverse and picturesque filming locations showcased in Hostiles offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the raw beauty of the American West and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural grandeur that played a pivotal role in bringing this impactful tale to life.