Where was Quigley Down Under filmed?
1990
City Locations
Alice Springs (Australia), Warrnambool (Australia), Sydney (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Victoria (Australia)
Location Types
Unique, Unusual, Ranch
Location Styles
Foreign, Retro, Desert, Neglected, Foreign, Ranch Style
About Quigley Down Under
Quigley Down Under is a classic western set in the Australian outback. The film follows Matthew Quigley (Tom Selleck), an American cowboy who travels to Australia in response to a job offer from wealthy rancher Elliot Marston (Alan Rickman).
When he refuses Marston's request to shoot and kill the natives, Quigley is beaten up and abandoned in the harsh Australian outback. Fortunately, the people Marston wanted him to exterminate eventually rescue him. Determined to get revenge, Quigley sets off to bring justice to Marston’s doorstep.
The critical reception for Quigley was a mix of opinions, as indicated by its 55% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 20 reviews. Roger Ebert gave the film a two-and-a-half out of four-star rating, acknowledging its quality production but noting its formulaic neo-western nature.
Ebert particularly highlighted the performances of Rickman and San Giacomo, saying his talent in the movie may establish her long-term success. The impressive rifle skills displayed by the protagonist influenced snipers, who now refer to taking down two targets with a single bullet as "a Quigley."
Quigley Down Under Locations
Quigley Down Under was an iconic Australian film produced entirely within the country. Warrnambool and Apollo Bay, two coastal towns in the southwest region of Victoria, provided the backdrop for most scenes. It is a stunningly beautiful area, offering alluring beaches, rolling hills, rugged coastlines, lush forests, and stunning national parks. Notable landmarks such as the Togo Monument at Warrnambool and Cape Otway Lightstation near Apollo Bay also feature prominently throughout the film.
Western Australia, including Fremantle Harbour and Yanchep National Park, also appeared on the screen. It gave viewers an authentic glimpse into life within the Australian Outback, further adding to the appeal!
A trip to the Quigley Down Under filming location would certainly be worthwhile, with visitors able to explore idyllic beaches such as Warrnambool’s East Beach or drive down Great Ocean Road for mesmerizing views over the Bass Strait. Tourists could also pay their respects at the Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve, a setting for some of the most memorable scenes. As one of the most beloved Australian films, fans of Quigley Down Under will find much delight in visiting its filming sites - a unique experience for any traveler!
Fun Facts:
The movie features the first cinematic collaboration between Tom Selleck and Alan Rickman. Both actors appeared in high-profile films such as Die Hard (Rickman) and Magnum P.I. (Selleck), so their on-screen chemistry was expectedly magnetic! The film also features two Aborigine actors, Simon Westaway and David Gulpilil, who received nominations for several awards for their roles in Quigley Down Under.
The Marston Station scene in Quigley Down Under
Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia
Upon his arrival in Australia, Quigley (Tom Selleck) finds himself in a confrontation with the staff members of the person who employed him. They forcefully place "Crazy Cora" on their wagon. Once he reveals his identity, they escort him to Elliot Marston's (Alan Rickman) station.
The "Marston Station" was meticulously constructed as a faithful replica of a 19th-century ranch, encompassing animal pens, stables, and a charming homestead house. Alice Springs, located in Central Australia, is also known as the Red Centre due to its arid environment and surrounding deserts. This vibrant town, affectionately known as "Alice" by locals, embodies the quintessential Australian spirit and serves as the headquarters of the Outback.
The Ghan rail journey offers a unique and picturesque way to reach Alice Springs. The train departs from Adelaide, taking around 21 hours to the town. This option allows travelers to experience the vastness of the Australian landscape.
If you are already in the Northern Territory, you can take a bus to Alice Springs. Bus services are also available, and the travel time varies depending on the starting point within the territory.
Quigley in the Marston's house scene in Quigley Down Under
Ross River Resort, 7829 Ross Hwy, Hale NT 0872, Australia
Elliot Marston (Alan Rickman) informs Quigley (Tom Selleck) that his sharpshooting skills are needed to eliminate the Aboriginal Australians. He rejects the offer and forcefully ejects Marston from his own house.
Ross River Resort, located in the Northern Territory of Australia, offers an enchanting experience in the heart of the great Australian Outback. Situated east of Alice Springs, this resort is near the original 1890s Loves Creek Homestead, providing a rustic and authentic atmosphere.
With various accommodation options, Ross River Resort caters to different preferences. From camping sites under the starry sky to cozy outback cabins and even a historic homestead with full dining facilities, visitors can choose the perfect setting to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty.
Get to 7829 Ross Highway, Hale, NT 0872, by heading towards Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia. Take the Plenty Highway (State Route 12) eastbound from Alice Springs. Continue along the Plenty Highway until you reach the turnoff for Ross River Resort. Take the turnoff and follow the signs leading to Ross River Resort.
The Aborigines take Quigley scene in Quigley Down Under
Apollo Bay, Victoria 3233, Australia
The Aborigines stumble upon Quigley and Cora (played by Laura San Giacomo). They rescue the nearly lifeless bodies of Quigley and Cora from the outback and carry them to a special place to help them recover from their ordeal.
A meticulously recreated museum replica of a 19th-century port town in Meekathanga, near the Apollo Bay area, served as the setting for the fishing village depicted in the film. The set was skillfully constructed with assistance from the Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum, ensuring an authentic and immersive experience for viewers.
Situated along the stunning Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, Apollo Bay is a charming coastal town offering a captivating blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Nestled on the eastern side of Cape Otway and bordered by the Barham River, this picturesque destination has become popular among tourists and locals.
The most common way to reach Apollo Bay is by car. You can drive along the Great Ocean Road from Melbourne, which takes approximately 3 hours and offers scenic coastline views.
Take a train or bus from Melbourne to Apollo Bay. The journey typically takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the mode of transport and the specific route.
Conclusion
Quigley Down Under is an iconic Australian movie showcasing some of the country's most rugged and picturesque landscapes. Filmed entirely in Australia, areas in and around Warrnambool and Apollo Bay, Victoria served as the backdrop for most scenes.
The vast open spaces of the outback featured prominently in the film, providing a stunning backdrop for the action. From the red canyons to the rolling hills and endless horizons of the Australian bush, Quigley Down Under captures the beauty of this unique landscape.
Along with its memorable characters and thrilling gunfights, Quigley Down Under showcases some of Australia's most breathtaking scenery. This classic western will remain a favorite among Australians for many years due to its stunning visuals and fun storyline.