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The Dark Knight Rises movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was The Dark Knight Rises filmed?

2012

City Locations

Jodhpur (India), London (UK), Nottingham (UK), Pittsburgh (USA), Abhaneri (India), Isleworth (UK), Dalcross (Scotland), Los Angeles (USA), New York (USA), Essex (UK), Los Angeles (USA), Newark (USA), Bedfordshire (UK), Burbank (USA), Torrance (USA), Brecon Beacons (UK), Culver City (USA)

Location Types

Mansion, Film Studio, Modern Office, College, Unique

Location Styles

Mansion, Federal Building, Luxury, Muscle, Modern Car, Modern Building, Motorcycle Style, Office Building Style

About The Dark Knight Rises

In 2012, Christopher Nolan directed "The Dark Knight Rises," the last part of his "The Dark Knight" series, following "The Dark Knight" (2008). Nolan worked with his brother, Jonathan Nolan, to co-write the screenplay and collaborated with David S. Goyer to develop the plot. The film features Christian Bale as both Bruce Wayne and his superhero persona, Batman, and is inspired by the DC Comics character of the same name. The film features an ensemble cast that includes Gary Oldman, Michael Caine, Tom Hardy, Anne Hathaway, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Morgan Freeman, and Marion Cotillard. The movie takes place eight years after the events of "The Dark Knight."

It centers around Bane, the main character, who forces Bruce Wayne out of his retirement to become Batman, once again protecting Gotham City from a looming threat.

Initially, Christopher Nolan was skeptical about directing the third film of the series. However, he eventually signed on after devising a story with his brother and Goyer, which he felt would provide a satisfactory end to the series. Nolan used different comic book storylines, including "Knightfall" from 1993 to introduce Bane, "The Dark Knight Returns" from 1986, and "No Man's Land" from 1999, as sources of inspiration.

The filming occurred between May and November 2011 in various locations worldwide, such as London, Jodhpur, Nottingham, Los Angeles, Glasgow, Newark, New York City, and Pittsburgh. Nolan utilized IMAX 70 mm film cameras for a significant part of the movie shooting, comprising the first six minutes, to enhance the image quality. Custom vehicles such as the "Bat," a mix of the Batcopter and Batplane, a unique Batcave, and an intricate underground prison set were made specifically for this movie. Like "The Dark Knight," this movie utilized viral digital marketing to engage fans. Once filming was completed, Warner Bros. increased its promotion by developing marketing websites, releasing a sneak peek of the first six minutes, screening movie previews, and sharing plot details.

"The Dark Knight Rises" had its premiere in New York City on July 16, 2012. It was then released on July 20, 2012, in the United States and the United Kingdom. Reviewers praised the film as it provided a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy, earning critical acclaim. The movie was very successful and made more than $1 billion globally. The movie has become the second installment in the Batman film series to earn more than $1 billion, making it the highest-grossing Batman movie of all time.

The Dark Knight Rises Locations

The Dark Knight Rises was filmed in multiple locations around the world, with most scenes taking place in India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Director Christopher Nolan chose Jodhpur as a backdrop for various outdoor scenes in India. With its colorful buildings, majestic forts, and desert landscape, Jodhpur provided the perfect setting for several action sequences. Scenes were also shot in London, Nottingham, and Glasgow to capture the urban landscapes of England. Across the pond in America, Nolan filmed on location in Los Angeles, New York City, Newark, and Pittsburgh to better represent Gotham City.

The beautiful scenery of India, Europe and iconic U.S. landmarks provide a stunning backdrop to The Dark Knight Rises. From Queenstown Hill overlooking Christchurch in England to Carnegie Mellon University's campus in Pennsylvania (both featured in the film), there is no shortage of real-world locations fans can visit to see firsthand where their favorite moments from The Dark Knight Rises took place. A trip to any of these locations would be an unforgettable experience for any fan of this classic superhero movie.

Bruce meeting Selina scene in The Dark Knight Rises

Wollaton Hall, 2 Wollaton Hall, Nottingham, United Kingdom

After the passing of Rachel Dawes, Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) retreats into seclusion, and Wayne Enterprises suffers from inactivity. Bane (Tom Hardy) conscripts businessman John Daggett (Ben Mendelsohn) to help him obtain Bruce's fingerprints. To this end, Catwoman Selina Kyle (Anne Hathaway) is hired by Daggett to steal Bruce's print from Wayne Manor.

Many Wayne Manor scenes are filmed at Wollaton Hall in the UK. Wollaton Hall is a stunning country house from the Elizabethan era in Nottingham, England. It was constructed between 1580 and 1588 and is encompassed by a 500-acre park and gardens, offering an excellent spot for people to stroll or have a picnic. Designed by the architect Robert Smythson, Wollaton Hall is widely regarded as one of England's finest examples of Elizabethan architecture. The hall has been used for various purposes, including as a family home for the wealthy landed gentry in the 17th and 18th centuries and as a university campus and scientific research center in the 20th century. Today, visitors can explore the hall's history, architecture, and art collection by taking a tour of the house's many rooms and exhibits.

If you are using public transportation, the Nottingham City Transport (NCT) Bus 30/31 provides regular service to the park. The buses run daily from Nottingham City Center, stopping at various locations in the city, including Nottingham Train Station. Visitors can also access the park by Tram, alighting at the Wollaton Park stop on the Nottingham Express Transit tram line.

Crime in Gotham scene in The Dark Knight Rises

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

Organized crime in Gotham City has been wiped out by implementing the "Dent Act," which grants additional authority to the police force. Even though District Attorney Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart) went on a killing spree, taking on the mantle of "Two-Face," Police Commissioner James Gordon (Gary Oldman) has kept this a secret and placed the blame on Batman (Christian Bale). Bruce Wayne, still deeply saddened by the loss of Rachel Dawes, has secluded himself, leading to a lack of progress at Wayne Enterprises.

The crimes depicted are filmed in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh's cultural scene is quite enviable, with several world-class museums, theaters, and entertainment venues. The Carnegie Museum of Art and Natural History, the Andy Warhol Museum, and the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh are just a few popular cultural spots. The city's unique geography and location at the confluence of three rivers, the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio, make it a charming and picturesque city, with several parks and natural areas ideal for outdoor activities.

If you are flying, Pittsburgh International Airport serves numerous national and international destinations and is about 20 miles west of downtown Pittsburgh. Alternatively, you can fly to smaller regional airports like the Pittsburgh Allegheny County Airport or the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport. For those driving, Pittsburgh can be reached via several major highways, including the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), I-79, and I-376.

Wayne ejecting from Wayne Enterprises scene in The Dark Knight Rises

Trump Tower - 725 5th Ave, New York, NY, United States

Enlisting Catwoman's (Anne Hathaway) help, Batman (Christian Bale) arranges a meeting with Bane (Tom Hardy), but the plan backfires as Catwoman leads him into a trap under Wayne Tower instead. Bane takes pleasure in revealing that he plans to complete Ra's al Ghul's plan to destroy Gotham City and ultimately defeats Batman in battle, dealing the final blow by breaking his back.

Wayne Tower is shot at the Trump Tower in New York. It is a luxurious skyscraper located in Midtown Manhattan. Built in 1983, the tower rises 664 feet over 58 floors and features a beautiful bronze facade that makes it stand out among other buildings in the city. The tower's location in the city's heart makes it very accessible and convenient for both residents and visitors. Since the tower's construction, it has become synonymous with the wealthy elite.

If you are taking public transportation, you can take the Subway to reach Trump Tower. You can take lines E or M to Fifth Avenue/53rd Street or lines N, Q, or R to Fifth Avenue/59th Street. These stations are located nearby and just a few minutes from Trump Tower.

Bane taking Batman to prison scene in The Dark Knight Rises

Chand Baori, Abhaneri, Rajasthan, India

Bruce (Christian Bale) is transported by Bane (Tom Hardy) to an underground cave prison in Jodhpur, where Ra's al Ghul's offspring was born and raised. The prison is known to be inescapable, with Ra's al Ghul's child being the only successful escapee. Bane is taking over Gotham by trapping the police underground, destroying all but one bridge, assassinating the mayor, forcing a scientist to turn a reactor core into a bomb, freeing prisoners, and gaining control of the city.

The prison scene is shot at the picturesque Abhaneri village near Jaipur. The small village of Abhaneri in the Indian state of Rajasthan is where you can find the beautiful stepwell known as Chand Baori. Chand Baori is one of the largest and deepest step wells in the world, and was built in the 9th century. The staircase consists of 3,500 small steps that descend towards the bottom. Chand Baori is a striking example of the significant innovation and creativity in ancient India's architecture and engineering works. It serves as a reminder of the country's history and people's dedication to preserving natural resources through thoughtful and innovative designs.

To visit Chand Baori, Abhaneri, one can take a bus or a taxi from Jaipur, around 95 km away. Abhaneri is located in the Dausa district of Rajasthan and can be reached from Jaipur via NH11. Alternatively, visitors can hire a private car or take a guided tour to visit the site.

Gotham police vs Mob fight scene in The Dark Knight Rises

Wall Street, Manhattan, New York City, New York, USA

After undergoing five months of recovery, Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) escapes from captivity and returns to Gotham in the guise of Batman. The Caped Crusader frees the police force and combats Bane's (Tom Hardy) army, ultimately overpowering him in a fierce confrontation. However, the triumph is short-lived when it is revealed that Tate (Marion Cotillard), who is actually Talia al Ghul, Ra's al Ghul's daughter, stabs Batman during the battle.

The fight scene is shot on Wall Street in New York. Wall Street is one of the most celebrated financial districts globally and the center of the world's largest financial system. The name "Wall Street" has its roots in the 17th century, when Dutch settlers built a wall to shield their city from English invasion. Today, Wall Street is a well-known attraction, offering visitors a chance to experience the world of finance and discover some of New York City's iconic landmarks.

Public transportation is the most convenient way to get to Wall Street. Here are some options: Subway: Take the 2, 4, 5, J, or Z trains to Wall Street Station, or the R or W trains to Whitehall Street Station. Other nearby stations include Broad Street Station and Fulton Street Station.

Bus: Take the M5, M15, or M20 bus to stops near Wall Street.

Wayne's funeral scene in The Dark Knight Rises

Osterley Park and House, Jersey Rd, Isleworth, United Kingdom

Towards the film's end, Batman (Christian Bale) is believed to be deceased and regarded as a hero. Wayne Manor is transformed into an orphanage, and Bruce's assets are bestowed to Alfred (Michael Caine). Gordon (Gary Oldman) comes across the restored Bat Signal, as Lucius Fox (Morgan Freeman) uncovers that Bruce had rectified the faulty auto-pilot on the Bat.

The scene with Wayne Manor as an orphanage is shot at Osterley Park and House. It is a magnificent Georgian mansion located in Isleworth, West London. Robert Adam designed it in the mid-18th century for Sir Francis Child, a wealthy banker, and it has since become one of London's best-known stately homes. Visitors can stroll around the park and enjoy the stunning views of the mansion from different angles. The park is also home to a working farm, which offers opportunities for families to pet and feed farm animals.

Visitors can take public transportation, drive, or use a taxi service to visit Osterley Park House. The nearest tube station is Osterley Station, served by the Piccadilly Line. From the station, it is only a short walk to the house. Visitors can also take the 120, H28, or H91 bus, which stops near the park entrance. If driving, Osterley Park House is located near the A4 and M4 motorway, and free parking is available on-site.

The final restaurant scene in The Dark Knight Rises

Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, London, United Kingdom

While in Florence, Alfred (Michael Caine) catches a glimpse of Bruce (Christian Bale), who is alive and in a relationship with Kyle (Anne Hathaway), and the two share a silent recognition. Furthermore, Blake (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), whose legal name is revealed to be Robin, quits the Gotham City Police Department and is given a package from Bruce, which eventually leads him to the Batcave.

The restaurant in Florence scene is filmed at The Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the United Kingdom's top tourist attractions. It was built in the late 17th century as a retirement home for British seamen and served as the Royal Navy's principal training center until 1939. In addition to its historical significance, the Old Royal Naval College is also used for cultural and educational events. It hosts numerous exhibitions, concerts, and performances throughout the year, and its stunning gardens are often used for outdoor events and film productions.

Visitors can take the Docklands Light Railway (DLR) or Southeastern trains to Greenwich Station or Cutty Sark Station, within walking distance of the college. Several bus lines, such as the 177, 180, 188, and 199, also stop near the college. Visitors can also reach the Old Royal Naval College by taking a Thames River cruise from central London, which offers stunning views of the city and the opportunity to see major landmarks from a unique perspective.

Conclusion

The Dark Knight Rises is an ambitious movie that left no stone unturned in its worldwide quest to find the perfect locations to bring the dark story to life. From the hustle and bustle of New York City to the ancient city of Jodhpur, India, and from the backdrop of London's iconic skyline to the vibrant city of Pittsburgh, USA, each location was carefully selected for its unique features.

As a result, viewers were taken on an incredible journey around the world as they watched Batman attempt to take on Bane and save Gotham City. Through its expansive range of locations featured in interior and exterior scenes, The Dark Knight Rises managed to capture audiences everywhere with its complex plot and powerful visuals. It is a lasting tribute to Christopher Nolan’s vision for his Batman trilogy.