Where was No Country for Old Men filmed?
2007
City Locations
Texas, New Mexico (USA), Mexico
Location Types
House, Cafe, Hotel, Motel, Riverside
Location Styles
Southwestern, Rustic, Ranch Style, Neglected, Motel Style
About No Country for Old Men
No Country for Old Men, directed by the talented Coen brothers Joel and Ethan, is a remarkable film that intricately weaves elements of a gripping thriller with a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. Set against the breathtaking desert landscape of West Texas in 1980, this captivating movie delves deep into the intricate themes of fate, conscience, and circumstance. Drawing inspiration from their acclaimed films Blood Simple (1984), Raising Arizona (1987), and Fargo (1996), the Coen brothers masterfully weave a tale that will leave you spellbound. The plot revolves around Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin), a Vietnam veteran who discovers two million dollars after stumbling upon the aftermath of a drug deal gone wrong in Texas. He absconds with the money, setting off a violent chain reaction that attracts the attention of an enigmatic killer with a penchant for making fateful coin tosses to determine his victims' fates. The disillusioned Sheriff Bell (Tommy Lee Jones) gets drawn into the mix as he struggles to restore order in his once-peaceful Lone Star State town. The Coen brothers' direction, screenplay, and Javier Bardem's remarkable performance garnered high praise from critics. As a testament to its excellence, "No Country for Old Men" received 76 awards out of 109 nominations from various prestigious organizations. Notably, it triumphed at the 80th Academy Awards by securing four wins, including the coveted Best Picture accolade. Many critics listed it as their top film in 2007, solidifying its position as one of the Coen brothers' finest works.
No Country for Old Men Locations
The 2007 masterful crime thriller No Country for Old Men came to life against the backdrop of various locations across the United States and Mexico. West Texas, including breathtaking desert landscapes around Marfa on I-9, Las Vegas and Eagle Pass, provided the settings for most scenes. The film also features a few scenes of Piedras Negras, Mexico, across the Rio Grande from Eagle Pass. The backdrop of these regions is one full of culture, history, and beauty that lend themselves to creating a unique atmosphere for No Country for Old Men. West Texas is a starkly beautiful region known for its wide open spaces and distinct desert landscape. Part of what makes No Country for Old Men so captivating is its use of this setting as a backdrop to the screen events. Las Vegas and Eagle Pass are two small towns with rich histories that provide an interesting juxtaposition between the old-world charm they evoke while still capturing modern elements within them. On top of this natural beauty, many exciting landmarks near these locations, such as adobe churches, preserved archaeological sites, and stunningly scenic national parks, offer plenty more to experience. Further south in Mexico lies other filming locations, Piedras Negras and Notre Dame de Guadalupe Church. A trip to No Country for Old Men’s filming locations would be well worth it to get an insight into the production and discover some fantastic places worth exploring in their own right. For fans of the movie or lovers of Western culture and history, it is an opportunity not to be missed!
The gas station scene in No Country for Old Men
Las Vegas City Public Schools, NM-104 Las Vegas, NM. 87701, USA
After refueling his vehicle at a gas station, Anton Chigurh (Javier Bardem) approaches the register to purchase some candy. The gas station proprietor (Gene Jones) engages in friendly conversation, attempting to make small talk. However, Chigurh becomes visibly displeased with the banal chit-chat, escalating the encounter into an eerie and tense confrontation. Perplexed by how the customer is agitated, the need to close the station, unaware that it is still midday. It only serves to irritate Chigurh further. In a peculiar turn of events, Chigurh insists that the outcome of a coin flip will determine his fate, whether he will win everything or face dire consequences. The clerk guesses heads, and Chigurh hands him the coin, cautioning him not to mix it with any other. This scene has been quoted many times, with one of Chigurh’s most famous lines being “Call it, friend-o!” NM-104 Las Vegas, NM 87701, is where the production team filmed the scene. The site is no longer a gas station; it is a private residence, and visitors should respect the property and privacy of those living there. Off US-84 in San Miguel County, it is roughly two hours away from Santa Fe. From Santa Fe, take I-25 N to NM-104 E towards Las Vegas. The road should lead you to the property, where you can visit and appreciate the scenery in person.
Llewelyn seeks refuge at the Regal Motor Hotel scene in No Country for Old Men
Regal Inn, 1809 N Grand Ave, Las Vegas, NM 87701, USA
Moss (Josh Brolin), arriving at the motel after taking a cab from the bus station, swiftly secures a room and discreetly conceals the money case within the depths of the HVAC duct. Using the clothes bar from a closet as his tool, he ensures that his fortune remains well hidden. After completing this task, Moss departs the hotel to purchase boots and socks. A palpable suspense lingers as he arrives unobserved and unannounced in an unfamiliar setting. The location chosen to film this scene depicts the Solitary and lonely nature of Moss’s life and also represents his fear of being discovered by anyone. The Regal Motel is in Las Vegas, New Mexico, which is over 500 miles away from Del Rio, Texas. The cinematic appeal came from its remote location, far from civilization, and with no discernible connection to Moss or his surroundings. The venue is fully operational, allowing fans to relax and immerse themselves in the captivating ambiance of the hotel while enjoying the movie. Get there by car via I-25 N until you reach the exit Las Vegas Turnoff. The road will take approximately one hour from Santa Fe. You will see the Regal Motel on your right side shortly after turning right onto N Grand Ave.
Moss figures out how Chigurh tracked him down scene in No Country for Old Men
Historic Plaza Hotel, 230 Plaza St, Las Vegas, NM 87701, USA
Moss (Josh Brolin) searched for clues on how Chigurh (Javier Bardem) tracked him down. He explores his case and finds a transponder before hearing suspicious noises. He calls the clerk who had checked him into the hotel, but it is too late because Chigurh has already arrived. The hotel in question is the illustrious Plaza Hotel at 230 Plaza Park, Las Vegas. This establishment served as the backdrop for interior and exterior scenes and boasts a rich history dating back to its inception in 1882. Nestled in the heart of Northern New Mexico, the Plaza Hotel offers a delightful blend of timeless charm and exquisite dining options. Situated overlooking the picturesque Plaza Park, it is a testament to the grandeur and allure of this once-thriving city. It remains the sole hotel in downtown historic Las Vegas, once the largest and most prosperous New Mexico city. The closest airport is Albuquerque International Airport (ABQ), about two hours away. From there, visitors should rent a car or take a shuttle bus for an additional 2 to 3-hour drive to Las Vegas, New Mexico.
Moss throws out the briefcase at the Mexican border scene in No Country for Old Men
E. University Ave. (Overpass) Las Vegas, NM 87701, USA
Llewelyn (Josh Brolin) discards the briefcase at a border checkpoint between the U.S. and Mexico, believed to be the bridge spanning the Rio Grande between Eagle Pass and Piedras Negras. Scenes of Carson Wells (Woody Harrelson) scouring the area in search of the briefcase follow. A notable scene that fans might remember is when Moss cleverly disguises his blood-stained shirt under a jacket and feigns drunkenness to blend in as a drunken Mexican. He waves a beer bottle while passing the drowsy Mexican border guard, who pays no attention to his identity as he crosses into Mexico. The scene reflects the tension and danger of crossing illegally between borders, and its imagery has even inspired real-life fan art reproducing Llewelyn's journey over a desert landscape. However, this memorable scene was filmed at University Avenue in Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701, as it crosses over Railroad Ave. The area has since lost some decorations, but many fans can still have an immersive experience near the tracks, just like when they first saw the film. From Santa Fe, it takes just one hour by road to reach Las Vegas City Center via Interstate 25 North. Alternatively, by public transport, catch an Orange bus from the Capitol stop in Santa Fe to get there.
Sheriff Bell talks to Carla scene in No Country for Old Men
Knights Inn, 1152 Grand Ave, Las Vegas, NM 87701, USA
Sheriff Bell (Tommy Lee Jones) remains perturbed by the unsettling sights he witnessed in the desert and the seemingly declining moral standards in the world. He visits Carla Jean (Kelly Macdonald) in Odessa, seeking her help to reach out to her husband. In a somewhat distracted manner, he shares a story about a local farmer who almost lost his life while attempting to slaughter an animal and how present-day slaughterhouses employ air-powered guns for instantaneously killing cattle. The restaurant and motel known as El Camino now rebranded as Knights Inn, can be found at the intersection of 1152 North Grand Avenue and East Baca Avenue in the vibrant city of Las Vegas. The diner is known for its old-school vibe and vintage decor, which gives it a certain charm. The walls and booths feature checkered tiles, with an old-fashioned jukebox in the background. The place is open, so fans can easily visit it. From Santa Fe, you can easily reach it by taking Interstate 25 North, which is approximately a one-hour drive away. From Las Vegas city center (the one in New Mexico), it is just a short 20-minute walk to reach your destination.
Anton kills Carla scene in No Country for Old Men
913 Jackson St, Las Vegas, NM 87701, USA
Chigurh (Javier Bardem) appears at Carla Jean's (Kelly Macdonald) place, who has recently laid her mother to rest. Chigurh flips a coin, but Carla Jean refuses to entertain his deadly game. She challenges Chigurh's method, stating that the choice to kill her lies solely with him, not the coin. He remains unswayed, persistently believing that he lacks any natural choice. As this tense interaction unfolds, two boys cycle past the house. Upon leaving the house, Chigurh pauses to examine his boots, presumably looking for signs of blood. This scene is a perfect example of how Chigurh's cold-bloodedness creates an atmosphere of fear and dread, even when there is no visible threat. 913 Jackson St. in Las Vegas provided the setting for the exterior scene of Carla Jean's house. It is a privately owned residence and not open to the public; however, photos of its exterior are welcome. To visit 913 Jackson St., hop on a bus or drive towards Downtown Las Vegas. Public transportation is conveniently accessible at all the locations featured in the movie set in Las Vegas.
Conclusion
Overall, No Country for Old Men is a captivating and powerful film that expertly blends elements of thrillers and character studies to create an intense experience. The performances from Javier Bardem, Tommy Lee Jones, and Josh Brolin are outstanding and bring the complicated characters to life. The script by Joel and Ethan Coen has well-crafted dialogue that emphasizes the themes of morality, fate, and human nature. The cinematography creates tension, using evocative images to tell its story. The idea behind No Country for Old Men has profoundly impacted the movie industry, propelling the Coen brothers further into critically acclaimed directors with multiple awards following their name. Furthermore, it has inspired numerous writers, filmmakers, and audiences due to its unique blend of genres, exploration of deep themes such as morality, and unforgettable characters. No Country for Old Men is worth watching for an intense cinematic experience full of suspenseful moments. It will leave you unsettled but profoundly moved by its masterfully crafted story and powerful performances.