Where was McLintock! filmed?
1965
City Locations
Tucson (USA), Patagonia (USA), Lochiel (USA), Fairbank (USA), Harshaw (USA), Ruby (USA), Nogales (USA), Klondyke (USA), Sonoita (USA), Duquesne (USA), San Xavier (USA)
Location Types
Film Studio, Ranch, House, Unique, Unusual, Intimate
Location Styles
Ranch Style, Dated, Old Hollywood
About McLintock!
McLintock! is a western comedy set in the American West, revolving around the wealthy rancher George McLintock, who is trying to gain control of his unruly family. The movie stars legendary actor John Wayne, Maureen O'Hara, and his son Patrick Wayne in supporting roles. The plot follows McLintock's attempts to protect his daughter from an unwanted suitor while fending off a land-grabber trying to steal his ranch.
The movie was directed by Andrew V. McLaglen, filmed in Technicolor, and produced by Wayne's production company, Batjac Productions. It was loosely based on William Shakespeare's famous play The Taming of the Shrew, which can be seen in some characters' interactions throughout the film.
An interesting fact about this movie is that it was released for television viewing on October 16, 1963, a week after John F. Kennedy's assassination. Despite being released during such a somber period, it became one of the top ten highest-grossing films that year and was highly praised by viewers for its lighthearted comic atmosphere.
McLintock! Locations
The production of the 1963 classic western comedy film McLintock! was primarily shot in two different regions of Arizona. Most movie scenes were captured at Old Tucson Studios, located west of Tucson. This picturesque, sprawling studio is nestled in the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape and has served as a backdrop for numerous films and television shows over the years. It is surrounded by spectacular mountain ranges and canyons, offering an unforgettable cinematic feel for any movie-goer or visitor lucky to experience it first-hand.
Some scenes were also shot at San Rafael Ranch House - San Rafael State Natural Area located south of Patagonia and Nogales. This area provides sweeping views of rocky outcrops in the middle of open flatlands, making it perfect for capturing that iconic Western American look and feel.
For any fan of classic westerns, a trip to the locations used for filming McLintock! would be well worth their while. Old Tucson Studios and San Rafael Ranch House show nature's beauty, allowing viewers to enter a world straight out of the movies. These unique settings will captivate any fan with their vivid colors and stunning terrain, making them must-sees for anyone looking to experience this iconic film's special cinematic magic firsthand.
The opening scene in McLintock!
Tucson, Arizona
In the opening scene of the movie McLintock!, we see the lead actor, George Washington McLintock (John Wayne), relaxing near his ancestral ranch. The scene sets the tone for the film and introduces the character of McLintock as a wealthy and influential rancher in the territory. The opening credits sequence is described as bouncy and features Drago (Chill Wills), Curley (Hank Worden), and other characters.
Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Tucson is a vibrant city with a rich history and exciting opportunities for adventure. Known for its stunning natural scenery, Tucson boasts several beautiful mountains perfect for hiking and exploring. The city also offers a diverse culinary scene with many delicious restaurants, from traditional Mexican cuisine to modern farm-to-table dishes. Tucson is also home to several museums and cultural institutions celebrating the region's unique history and art, including the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and the Mission San Xavier del Bac. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, Tucson has something for everyone to enjoy.
As you plan your journey to this charming desert city, there are several routes to consider. For those who prefer air travel, the Tucson International Airport offers convenient connections and accessibility from major cities nationwide. Alternatively, road-tripping to Tucson is an excellent option for those looking to experience the scenic beauty of the Southwest. There are a variety of direct highways leading to Tucson, and the surrounding Sonoran Desert landscape is sure to make for an unforgettable journey.
The exhilarating horse riding scene in McLintock!
201 S Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ
George Washington McLintock (John Wayne) showcases his horsemanship skills. Mounted on his liver chestnut-colored quarter horse named Alamo, McLintock skillfully maneuvers through rugged terrain, galloping with the wind in his hair at full speed. The scene is filled with energy and excitement as McLintock's horse leaps over obstacles and effortlessly navigates through the landscape.
South Kinney Road is a prominent road located in Tucson, Arizona. It runs through the Tucson Estates neighborhood and offers access to various destinations. The road intersects with West Ajo Highway, providing a convenient transportation route for residents and visitors. Old Tucson, a popular attraction in Tucson known for its Western film sets and entertainment, is situated on South Kinney Road. It offers visitors the chance to experience the Wild West through live music shows, historical exhibits, and thrilling performances. If you're looking for a taste of the Old West, Old Tucson is a must-visit destination.
To reach 201 S Kinney Rd in Tucson, plug in the address on your GPS or map app. Then, follow the suggested route, paying attention to street signs and any turns you need to make. Arriving at this filming location can be a breeze with some planning and a clear head. So take a deep breath, buckle up, and set out on your journey with confidence.
Conclusion
The classic McLintock! is a timeless story of power and influence set in the wild American frontier. It was filmed across several iconic locations in Arizona, including Old Tucson Studios near Tucson, San Rafael Ranch House at San Rafael State Natural Area south of Patagonia, and Nogales. By filming at these historically significant sites, the movie captured an authentic look and feel to its representation of the Wild West. The mix of rural ranches and bustling cities all speak to the complexity of life during this era.
McLintock! highlights various experiences, from farmers struggling to make ends meet to wealthy ranchers wielding political clout while attempting to keep peace in the territory. This powerful story captures the beauty and struggles within this oft-misunderstood period of history. In all, McLintock! offers viewers an opportunity to explore the complexities of life on the American frontier through richly detailed characters and settings.