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RoboCop movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was RoboCop filmed?

1987

City Locations

Detroit (USA), Monessen (USA), Pittsburgh (USA), Fontana (USA), Harrisburg (USA), Los Angeles (USA), Irving (USA)

Location Types

House, Hotel, Film Studio

Location Styles

Futuristic, Dated, Retro, Federal Building, Hotel Style

About RoboCop

The 1987 film RoboCop takes us on a thrilling journey in the crime-ridden and near-apocalyptic city of Detroit. The story revolves around police officer Alex Murphy, who is brutally murdered by a gang of criminals. However, instead of meeting his end, Murphy's body becomes the vessel for an ambitious project by Omni Consumer Products, an evil corporation aiming to privatize the police force.

Resurrected as RoboCop, a cyborg law enforcement officer, Murphy is equipped with incredible strength, advanced weaponry, and state-of-the-art technology. His mission is clear – eradicating the city's crime and corruption. As he fights through the dangerous streets, RoboCop unravels a vast conspiracy that leads to his demise.

One unique aspect of RoboCop is the iconic suit worn by the titular character. Designed by special effects artist Rob Bottin, who was also behind the memorable creatures in films like "The Thing" (1982) and "Total Recall" (1990), the RoboCop suit adds to the character's imposing presence on screen. Its sleek design and futuristic appearance have made it an enduring symbol of the film.

RoboCop is not just an action-packed sci-fi film but also a social commentary on corporate greed, corruption, and the ethical boundaries of technology. The movie was directed by Paul Verhoeven and received critical acclaim for its sharp satire and gritty portrayal of a dystopian future.

Critics observed that the film drew inspiration from notable action films such as The Terminator (1984) and Aliens (1986), as well as narratives from Frankenstein (1931), Repo Man (1984), and the television series Miami Vice. Some reviewers noted that RoboCop presented a unique and futuristic depiction of Detroit, similar to how Blade Runner had done for Los Angeles. Many critics struggled to categorize the film within a specific genre, as it seamlessly blended elements of social satire, philosophy, action, science fiction, thrillers, Westerns, slapstick comedy, romance, superhero comics, and camp, all while maintaining its originality.

RoboCop Locations

RoboCop (1987) utilized various locations for its filming, primarily focusing on two main regions: Dallas, Texas, and Pennsylvania. Most scenes were shot in Dallas, with notable landmarks like the OCP Building, which is Dallas City Hall at 1500 Marilla Street, appearing. Additionally, the film incorporated some scenes in Monessen and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, including the iconic final battle scene filmed in a steel mill in Pittsburgh.

The backdrop of the regions used for filming in RoboCop provides a mix of urban and industrial landscapes. Dallas, with its modern cityscape and architectural landmarks, offers a futuristic ambiance that aligns with the film's setting. Pennsylvania, particularly the steel mill locations, adds a gritty and industrial vibe to the movie's visual aesthetic.

For fans of RoboCop or film enthusiasts, a trip to these filming locations could be a worthwhile experience. Exploring Dallas would allow visitors to see the real-life sites that served as backdrops for iconic scenes, such as Dallas City Hall standing in for the OCP Building. Pennsylvania offers the chance to visit the steel mill locations, providing a glimpse into the industrial atmosphere portrayed in the film.

ED 209 demonstrates its capabilities scene in RoboCop

Renaissance Tower, 1201 Elm St, Dallas, TX

During a boardroom demonstration, ED-209 (voiced by Jon Davison) demonstrates its capabilities in dealing with an armed threat. The scene takes place in a corporate setting, specifically in Dick's (Ronny Cox) boardroom. As the demonstration begins, ED-209, a massive enforcement droid, is showcased as a formidable weapon designed to uphold law and order.

At 1201 Elm Street in downtown Dallas, Renaissance Tower is a magnificent 56-story modernist skyscraper. Soaring 886 feet, it proudly claims the city's second-tallest building title. With its high-quality office spaces, the tower offers breathtaking views of downtown Dallas, complemented by the elegance of granite and marble lobbies and common areas. Since its completion in 1986, this iconic landmark has graced the cityscape, capturing the essence of architectural grandeur.

To reach Renaissance Tower in Dallas, follow the driving directions to Renaissance Tower located at 1201 Elm St, Dallas. Consider using navigation apps like Waze for real-time traffic updates and road conditions.

Public Transportation: Various public transportation options are available to access Renaissance Tower. You can utilize trams, buses, or shuttles depending on your location and convenience. It is advisable to check with local transit authorities for specific routes and schedules.

OCP's garage scene in RoboCop

Hotel Crescent Court, 400 Crescent Ct, Dallas, TX

After escaping ED-209 (voiced by Jon Davison), RoboCop (Peter Weller) finds himself in OCP's parking garage. As he seeks refuge, he is suddenly ambushed by a group of police officers who relentlessly unleash a hail of bullets upon him. Despite his advanced armor and resilience, RoboCop is savagely raked with police bullets, causing visible damage to his body.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Dallas, Texas, Hotel Crescent Court stands as a pinnacle of luxury and tranquility. This premier boutique hotel and spa exudes undeniable charm and embraces the essence of Texan hospitality. Immerse yourself in a heritage-rich experience that seamlessly blends sophistication and warmth. Indulge in the amenities, including a year-round outdoor pool and a rejuvenating spa center, offering the perfect retreat from the bustling city. The meticulously manicured grounds and delectable culinary offerings enhance the allure of this remarkable destination, ensuring an unforgettable stay for discerning travelers seeking an extraordinary experience.

To reach Hotel Crescent Court in Dallas, you have various transportation options:

Driving: Start east on Highway 183, then take I-35 south. Next, take the Oak Lawn exit and turn left onto Oak Lawn. After that, make a right onto Cedar Springs Road. Finally, leave Turtle Creek Boulevard to arrive at the hotel.

Public Transportation: Hotel Crescent Court boasts a convenient location, just 5 miles from Dallas Love Field airport and approximately 18 miles from Dallas-Fort Worth airport. When traveling to the hotel, you can take a taxi, use a rideshare service, or utilize the public transportation services available at the airports.

RoboCop thwarts a sexual assault scene in RoboCop

Main St & N Cesar Chavez Blvd, Dallas, TX

RoboCop (Peter Weller) thwarts a sexual assault by swiftly and accurately shooting the rapist between the legs, saving his would-be victim. This intense moment showcases RoboCop's determination to protect the innocent and uphold justice. The scene highlights the film's crime-fighting themes and technology to combat social issues.

Main Street and North Cesar Chavez Boulevard in Dallas offer a bustling activity hub that reflects this vibrant city's unique flair. From the towering corporate buildings to the quaint storefronts of local businesses, this area is a must-see destination for visitors and locals alike. The street is framed by towering trees and elegant street lamps that glow warmly over the bustling crowds. The energy of this intersection is palpable at all hours, and as day turns to night, music fills the air, spilling out from the row of bars and restaurants that line the streets.

The most direct way to get to Main Street and North Cesar Chavez Boulevard is to take US-75 South and exit onto Main Street. From there, drive straight until you reach North Cesar Chavez Boulevard. If you prefer to avoid highways, you can take the city streets and turn onto North Harwood Street, leading you straight to Main Street. This charming area is a dining, shopping, and entertainment hub, so it's worth the trip. Don't forget to snap photos of the stunning architecture and take in all the sights and sounds around you.

RoboCop saves the mayor scene in RoboCop

Dallas Municipal Building, 106 S Harwood St, Dallas, TX

The mayor of Detroit (Douglas Urbanski) is held hostage by a disgruntled employee, and RoboCop (Peter Weller) steps in to resolve the situation. As the disgruntled employee threatens the mayor's life, RoboCop arrives with precision and strategic planning. Utilizing his advanced weaponry and tactical skills, RoboCop swiftly neutralizes the threat, ensuring the mayor's safety and restoring calm to the chaotic situation.

The Dallas Municipal Building, located in the Main Street District of downtown Dallas, is a historic landmark. Built in 1914, it features Beaux-arts architecture and a distinctive modern addition from 1956. The building served as Dallas City Hall from 1912 to 1978. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city's history and architectural heritage, attracting visitors with its impressive design and significance.

To reach the Dallas Municipal Building, take the Ervay Exit #45 before merging onto I-30. At the second traffic light, make a right turn onto Ervay. For those coming from South Dallas on I-35, simply turn onto Ervay Street.

Murphy visits his old home scene in RoboCop

9233 Church Rd, Dallas, TX

Murphy (Peter Weller), now transformed into a cybernetic law enforcement officer, takes off to visit his old home. Filled with nostalgia and painful memories, Murphy walks through the remnants of his past life, recalling moments with his wife (Angie Bolling) and son (Jason Levine). This poignant moment showcases the human side of RoboCop as he grapples with the fragments of his former existence and the emotions that surface amidst his new robotic identity.

Church Road in Dallas, Texas, is a residential street that features a variety of single-family homes. With properties ranging from 3 to 5 bedrooms and sizes varying between 2,061 to 3,810 square feet, Church Road offers diverse housing options. Located in the 75238 zip code, this neighborhood provides a peaceful suburban setting for residents. The area also includes medical offices and commercial properties, adding convenience to the community.

To get to 9233 Church Rd, cross Skillman Street and take the first left into the complex.

Conclusion

RoboCop (1987), directed by Paul Verhoeven, takes viewers on a thrilling journey through various filming locations. From the gritty streets of Detroit, Michigan, to the industrial landscapes of Monessen and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the movie captures a range of settings that add depth to its story. Additionally, the fictional Omni Consumer Productions (OCP) Headquarters, a key location in the film, is portrayed by Dallas City Hall in Dallas, Texas. This sci-fi action classic blends real-world locations with futuristic elements, creating a visually captivating experience. The mix of Detroit, Pennsylvania, and Texas locations gives RoboCop a unique flavor and showcases the versatility of its filming locations. Whether it's the dystopian streets or the imposing OCP Headquarters, each setting contributes to the overall atmosphere and impact of the film.