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The Equalizer movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was The Equalizer filmed?

2014

City Locations

Salisbury, Hamilton, Chelsea, Haverhill, and Boston, Massachusetts (USA)

Location Types

House, Diner, Restaurant, Estate

Location Styles

Cape Cod, Tudor, Industrial style, Castle, Shipping yard

About The Equalizer

Antoine Fuqua's The Equalizer is an action-packed 2014 thriller scripted by Richard Wenk and adapted from the ‘80s crime series of the same name. Denzel Washington embodies Robert McCall, a black ops commando who faked his death and retreated to a peaceful life in Boston. When he comes to Teri (Chloë Grace Moretz)'s rescue, he finds himself consumed with justice as soon as he confronts Vladimir Pushkin’s (Vladimir Kulich) Russian gangster syndicate. The Equalizer follows McCall as he embarks on an old-school mission for justice, making the bad guys pay for their crimes. Along the way, he teams up with an old colleague (Melissa Leo) and a hacker (Marton Csokas) to deliver his brand of vigilante justice to those who deserve it most. His fighting skills and knowledge are tested throughout the film as he takes on corrupt politicians and organized crime gangs. Critics largely praised the film's visual composition, acting performances, soundtrack, and the choreography of its action sequences. However, some noted that it contained too much violence for their liking and felt the plot was not developed enough. On Metacritic, the vigilante action scored 57 out of 100 based on 41 critics' reviews, representing "mixed or average" reactions overall. Despite the odds, the film became an international success and earned $192 million globally against a production budget of $55 -$73 million. In 2015, the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films USA nominated it for Best Thriller Film and Best Performance by a Younger Actor (Chloë Grace Moretz) and it won the Outstanding Directing in a Motion Picture Image Award.

The Equalizer Locations

The slate first went down on The Equalizer production in June 2013, and the crew utilized a variety of locations across Massachusetts, USA. Most of the film was shot in Salisbury, Hamilton, Chelsea, Haverhill, and Boston. These cities provided a vibrant backdrop to the movie with their unique landmarks, diverse architecture, and abundant cultural attractions.

The coastal town of Salisbury served as a setting for several scenes in the movie. Hamilton is known for its tranquil countryside views and lush green spaces, which form an attractive backdrop to the bustling city life depicted in the film. As for Chelsea, it is renowned for its art galleries and urban vibe, while Haverhill offers an exciting range of architectural styles from colonial to modern. Finally, Boston served as a stunning crescendo to the movie providing memorable shots of its harborfront skyline and many historical sites such as Beacon Hill. The infamous home of Robyn McCall is tucked away in the beautiful neighborhood at 50 Gifford Avenue in Jersey City, New Jersey. The same family has lovingly owned this single-family residence since 1940. It has undergone an extensive restoration project since 1996 under its current occupant, the grandchild of the original owners. Given this wide range of settings, visiting the filming locations of The Equalizer would be highly rewarding for any film enthusiast or traveler looking for an exciting adventure. There's plenty to discover, from quaint harbor towns to dynamic urban centers, all steeped in culture and history that will capture your imagination.

The diner scene in The Equalizer

27 Everett Ave, Chelsea, MA 02150, USA

The diner scene in The Equilizer captures the heart of the movie - Robert McCall'smission to help those who cannot help themselves. He meets Teri (Chloë Grace Moretz), whose real name in Alina, a young woman trafficked and forced into prostitution by the Russian mob. McCall dispenses life advice to the young woman, assuring her she can be whatever she wants. He fervently encourages Alina's dream of becoming a singer, and when faced with opposition from "her world," he motivates her to change it. Subsequently, news emerges that Alina has been hospitalized by her pimp, and it marks the beginning of an inspiring journey for both as they fight for justice and take steps toward realizing their dreams. Chelsea Floor Covering, located at 25 Everett Ave in Chelsea, Massachusetts, is where they shot the diner scene. The building itself is home to Chelsea Floor Covering, a family-owned business that was rented by Columbia Pictures in 2013 for two months while they converted it into an old-fashioned all-night diner. To get there, take I-93 North from Boston and follow it onto US-1 N. Exit at Beacon Street in Chelsea, then continue along Chestnut Street until you make a left on Arlington Street, and another left onto Everett Avenue. From downtown Boston by car, the entire trip should only last 15 minutes. Alternatively, take the 111 bus departing from Woodlawn Station, and the journey should take approximately 25 minutes.

Scout Boston Filming Locations

Maya's burritos scene in The Equalizer

136 Broadway, Chelsea, MA 02150, USA

McCall visits a Mexican fast food restaurant owned by Ralphie's mother (Luz Mery Sanchez) after he learns that Ralphie (Johnny Skourtis) quit his job. The restaurant is filled with workers helping repair the damage from a fire that recently broke out. McCall speaks with Ralphie, who appears resigned to his current situation rather than enthusiastic. The scene at Ralphie's burrito shop marked a turning point in the plot and showed how dedicated McCall was to helping those around him. Maya’s Burrito’s located at 136 Broadway, Chelsea, MA 02150, served as the setting for this particular scene. The eatery served all kinds of delicious, fresh-made Mexican food but sadly, the business is now permanently closed. To get there, it’s just 15 minutes from Maverick on Blue Line and Commuter Rail lines (the closest stop is Suffolk Downs). Driving there, take I-93 N/US-1 N toward Boston/Chelsea and exit toward Revere/Saugus. Follow Broadway until you reach Sabores De Familia Corporation Restaurant!

Uncover Boston Video Shoot Locations

The baseball match of home mart scene in The Equalizer

Boston Harborwalk, Boston, MA 02128, USA

McCall steps up to bat and strikes out the opposing team with his signature move. Everyone cheers with joy as Home Mart wins the game. Ralphie shows up wearing a security guard uniform, having passed his test. The glimmering waterfront of the HarborWalk is more than just a stunning backdrop, it's an area ripe with activities and attractions. From watching port operations to swimming or fishing, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this locale! You can also explore over forty parks and visit nearby museums for further immersion into the local history and culture. Of course, every trip wouldn’t be complete without savoring scrumptious delicacies at local eateries. To get to this location, take the MBTA subway (MBTA line Blue) to Maverick from Government Center. From there, it is just a short walk down Meridian Street to Border Street. The commuter rail line can also get you there.

Boston Film Shoot Locations Directory

Robert McCall's home scenes in The Equalizer

40 Falcon St, Boston, MA 02128, USA

McCall’s apartment is where he goes to find refuge, but it turns out that even this haven is not safe enough for him. When the gangsters break into his home, they soon realize the lengths that McCall had gone to protect himself. His apartment is set up to make it appear as if he has left town, a clever ploy that ends up working against them. As Teddy (Marton Csokas), the gang boss, enters McCall's apartment, he notices something suspicious about the room. The furniture and decorations appear pristinely maintained despite being untouched for weeks or months. Then he realizes that hidden cameras are scattered throughout the apartment, watching their every move. This scene was filmed at 40 Falcon St in Boston, Massachusetts. This area is known as the Eagle Hill neighborhood in East Boston, and the residence featured in the film is a multi-family house built in 1900 on a 2187 Sqft lot. Please be aware that this is private property, and access is only granted to those authorized. To reach this destination, take public transportation via bus #111 or the blue line metro and then transfer to #116. Alternately, drive yourself via MA-1A N until Brooks St. Drive and then turn right onto Falcon Street.

Check Boston Production Spaces

Pushkin's house scene in The Equalizer

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, 290 Argilla Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938, USA

The scene in The Equalizer is a dramatic and pivotal moment, whenMcCall finally catches up with his nemesis Vladimir Pushkin. McCall enagegs in a battle with Pushkin's guards before finally confronting him in a large room, where he manages to trick him into electrocuting himself to death. This unforgettable scene has gone down in cinematic history for its intense choreography and striking visual style. The dramatic lighting and gripping score add an extra dimension to the action-packed sequence. It also serves as a fitting climax to the main story arc of The Equalizer, McCall’s quest for revenge against his enemies.

From its majestic mansion to its serene landscape, Castle Hill was the perfect location for shooting the memorable fight sequence. Set at the awe-inspiring Crane Estate in Ipswich, Massachusetts, on 290 Argilla Rd., the 165 acres of land provide breathtaking sea and salt marsh views. It's no surprise that Mr. And Mrs. Richard Teller Crane Jr. chose to build their summer home on the lot between 1926 to 1928. To enhance your experience at Castle Hill, we highly recommend securing advance passes for grounds admission. Journey to the majestic Castle Hill on the Crane Estate from Ipswich Train Station by taking Argilla Road for approximately 6 miles, and you'll eventually reach your destination. Alternatively, from Boston, access it via US-1 North or I-95 North with a private vehicle and you should be there in an hour.

Access Filming Locations

Conclusion

Denzel Washington delivers an extraordinary perfomance as Robert McCall in The Equalizer. Blending intense action sequences with an intriguing storyline, this movie offers something different - the notion that an elite former CIA agent can turn vigilante engages viewers from start to finish. Cleverly written dialogues and just enough suspense keep further keeps audiences enthralled during every moment of its two-hour running time. The Equalizer significantly contributed to the film industry by showing a fresh take on vigilante justice with its well-developed characters and exciting plot twists. The visual effects were stunning and added to the film's intensity, while Fuqua's direction allowed viewers to get completely immersed in the story. The overall impression on viewers was positive; it is clear that significant effort went into creating this cinematic masterpiece. In conclusion, The Equalizer is worth watching for any action movie fan or those who enjoy crime thrillers or detective stories.