Where was The Lucky One filmed?
2012
City Locations
Madisonville, Abita Springs, LA (USA)
Location Types
House, Hotels/Motels, Museum
Location Styles
Creole, Colonial, Cape Cod, Americana/Anywhere, Rustic
About The Lucky One
The Lucky One is a heart-stirring romantic drama from 2012, brought to life under the direction of Scott Hicks. The film's powerhouse cast includes Hollywood heartthrob Zac Efron playing Logan Thibault, Taylor Schilling in the role of Elizabeth "Beth" Green, Jay R. Ferguson as Keith Clayton, Blythe Danner as Ellie, and Riley Thomas Stewart as Benjamin "Ben" Clayton.
As the plot unfolds, we follow US Marine Logan Thibault, who finds an intriguing photograph of a woman while serving in Iraq. Treating it as his good luck charm, he eventually seeks out Beth Green, the woman in the photograph, and their relationship begins to bloom. The film ventures into themes of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and survivor guilt, contributing to the emotional depth of the narrative.
The Lucky One, adapted from Nicholas Sparks's 2008 novel, did not escape critical scrutiny and received mixed reviews. Still, it exhibited robust performance at the box office, garnering over $99.4 million and proving its commercial success.
When it comes to awards, The Lucky One did not sweep any significant wins but found nominations in the 13th annual Golden Trailer Awards in 2012. The film also earned nods from the Teen Choice Awards and People's Choice Awards in the same year.
Overall, amidst the romantic turbulence and ardent themes of love, fate, and healing, The Lucky One bolsters an impressive cast led by the talented Scott Hicks. Despite a spectrum of reviews, the film's commercial success resonates with its audience, making it a memorable contribution to the big screen.
The Lucky One Locations
The Lucky One is a cinematic tale that brought to life the picturesque landscapes of Louisiana. Originally set in North Carolina in Sparks's novel, the film adaptation saw a shift in the setting as Warner Bros. chose to capitalize on Louisiana's filmmaking tax incentives. This was a move embraced by Sparks himself, and the story was further adapted to harmonize with the unique Louisiana context.
The film prominently showcases a spectrum of locations, from the grandeur of The Houmas House and Gardens to the rustic appeal of Camp Salmen Nature Park in Slidell. The former, a Greek revival mansion draped in Southern charm, lies nestled between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, offering a blend of history and enchanting gardens. Camp Salmen, on the other hand, is captivating with its woodland beauty and tranquility.
The St. Joseph Benedictine Abbey, situated in Saint Benedict, also makes a striking appearance, with the serenity of its encompassing lake setting the stage for Little Ben's treehouse scene. Other noteworthy locations include Creedmoor Plantation, Madisonville, Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Abita Springs, Bayou Road in St Bernard, and the iconic Port Eads Lighthouse.
However, it’s the vivacious city of New Orleans that steals the show. Known as the "Big Easy," this city, graced by the Mississippi River, adds a touch of je ne sais quoi with its famous nightlife and delectable cuisine.
If you're a fan of The Lucky One or simply a traveler with a taste for diversity, a trip to these filming locations would indeed be worthwhile. Experience a combination of history, nature, and culture that is Louisiana, steeped in a distinctive ambiance that breathes life into Sparks's critically acclaimed novel. The region's striking landscapes, historic plantations, and the vibrant cityscape of New Orleans make for a truly unforgettable adventure.
The woman from the photo scene in The Lucky One
South Pass Light, Venice, LA 70091, USA
Logan (Zac Efron) stumbles upon a photograph of a woman (Taylor Schilling) that inadvertently saves his life. Intrigued and grateful, he decides to locate her. The photo features a lighthouse in the background, which becomes a pivotal element in his quest. This scene unfolds with Logan scouring the internet to identify the lighthouse. His search leads him to the Port Eads Lighthouse, marking a significant turning point in the movie.
The Port Eads Lighthouse, which Logan saw in the picture, is located at the entrance to South Pass and was used as a filming location. This location is where the waters of the Mississippi River meet the Gulf. The lighthouse is a white skeletal tower, a design common to many seacoast towers along the Gulf Coast and Florida Straits. Established in 1831, the light station remains active today, serving as a beacon for oceangoing ships.
Port Eads Lighthouse is located at the southern end of Louisiana, accessible only by boat or helicopter due to its remote location. It's a place shrouded in tranquility and serenity, offering stunning views of the marshlands and the Mississippi River. The journey to this location can be a unique experience in itself, especially if you choose to travel by boat along the Mississippi River, embracing the beauty of nature on your way.
Green's home and kennel scene in The Lucky One
Tremont Hotel, 1800 Bayou Rd, St Bernard, LA 70085, USA
In one scene, Logan lands a job at a dog kennel run by Beth and her grandmother Ellie (Blythe Danner). Despite Beth's initial objections, Ellie hires Logan, impressed by his command over Zeus, their dog.
This scene unfolds at Beth's family home, a charming house enveloped by verdant gardens and bustling kennels. The atmosphere brims with life, with dogs barking in the background, adding a unique touch to the scene. This location becomes a significant part of the narrative, serving as a backdrop for the budding romance between Logan and Beth.
The Green’s house and kennels were shot at Creedmoor Plantation in Louisiana, a site rich in history and beauty. Established in the 1830s by Laurent Millaudon, Creedmoor Plantation was once a large sugar plantation. The house, built by Richard Richardson in 1842, is a fine example of Greek Revival architecture. Its original millwork and ceiling medallions remain today, along with the overseer’s house, stable, and privy.
Today, Creedmoor Plantation functions as Tremont Hotel, welcoming tourists and fans of The Lucky One. Although the exact decorations from the movie might not be present, the site retains the film's atmosphere, letting visitors relive the magic of the film.
To get to Creedmoor Plantation, you can drive from New Orleans, which is approximately 20 miles away. If you're coming from Baton Rouge, it's around 100 miles to the east. The journey offers scenic views of the Louisiana countryside, making it a delightful experience in itself.
The garden party scene in The Lucky One
Houmas House Estate and Gardens, 40136 LA-942, Darrow, LA 70725, USA
The garden party is held at Clayton's estate. This is where audiences are first introduced to Beth's ex-husband, Sheriff's Deputy Keith Clayton (Jay R. Ferguson), and their lively son, Ben (Riley Thomas Stewart). The scene serves as an essential part of the storyline, setting the stage for the complex relationships that unfold through the film.
This picturesque scene was shot at the Houmas House Estate and Gardens in Darrow, Louisiana. The site is a circa-1840 Greek Revival mansion and plantation that boasts stunning gardens, refined accommodations, and exquisite restaurants. The plantation was established in the late 1700s, and the current main house was completed in 1840. Named after the native Houma people who originally occupied this area of Louisiana, the property radiates with historical significance.
Restored to its antebellum grandeur, Houmas House Plantation and Gardens is often chosen as a filming location for various motion pictures, television series, and commercials. Among its many appearances, Houmas is most recognized for its role in the Bette Davis movie "Hush… Hush, Sweet Charlotte" (1964), where the house adds a Tara-like presence to the film.
To reach the Houmas House Estate and Gardens, if you're coming from Baton Rouge, it's approximately a 35-minute drive via I-10 E and LA-22 E. From New Orleans, it's roughly an hour's journey via I-10 W. The drive offers scenic views, making the journey just as enjoyable as your destination.
Logan's home scenes in The Lucky One
Camp Salmen Nature Park, 35122 Parish Pkwy, Slidell, LA 70460, USA
A clear shift in the relationship between Beth and Logan is marked by an unforgettable scene where they share their first kiss. Initially, Beth finds Logan's presence irksome, yet she gradually starts to appreciate him as he proves his calm nature, willingness to work, and proficiency in fixing machinery. This pivotal moment, forever etched in fans' memories, takes place at Logan's home in Louisiana.
This intimate scene was filmed at a historic French-Creole trading post situated within Camp Salmen Nature Park in Slidell, Louisiana. The park spans over 130 acres, providing visitors with a rich outdoor observatory filled with diverse fauna, flora, and birding habitats, along with a glimpse into its intriguing history and folklore.
According to folklore, back in the early 1920s, a young Boy Scout kindly offered his umbrella to Fritz Salmen, who was associated with the Salmen Brick and Lumber Company that once occupied the park. The scout's humble act of refusing a gratuity moved Fritz. As a result, he made a substantial land donation to the Boy Scouts of America, which they made use of for many years. Presently, Camp Salmen is accessible to the public and remains flourishing.
To reach Camp Salmen Nature Park from downtown New Orleans, hop on I-10 E in your private vehicle, as the journey takes nearly an hour. Regrettably, public transportation is not an option, so renting a car and exploring all the locations at your convenience is advisable.
The fall of the treehouse scene in The Lucky One
Saint Joseph Abbey & Seminary, 75376 River Rd, St Benedict, LA 70457, USA
Young Ben is heading to the treehouse, but the rope bridge gives way, causing him and his father, Keith, to fall into the river. Beth and Logan arrive at this critical moment. Logan manages to save Ben by handing him over to Beth, but before he can return for Keith, the treehouse falls on Keith, and he is tragically swept away in the raging river.
This intense scene was filmed around the lake at Saint Joseph Abbey, a location that adds a serene yet ominous backdrop to the unfolding drama. The scene is iconic, marking a significant turning point in the narrative and highlighting the themes of sacrifice and fate that run throughout the movie.
Saint Joseph Abbey is situated in Louisiana, a site deeply rooted in historical and cultural significance. The Abbey, established and managed by numerous parishes from New Orleans and the Northshore regions, has profoundly impacted local culture through its endorsement and advancement of both religious and secular arts programs.
Marvel at the enduring elegance of the Abbey Church and monks' refectory, which have been listed as treasures of the National Register of Historic Places since 2007. Engage in an enlightening tour and soak up the peaceful atmosphere nurtured by the monastic community.
To reach Saint Joseph Abbey from downtown New Orleans, take the route via Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. However, please note that this route may have restricted usage or private roads. Another option is to drive using I-10 East and I-12 West. The estimated travel time by car is approximately one hour, as public transport is unavailable.
Conclusion
The Lucky One is another romantic drama adapted from a Nicholas Sparks novel. It paints a picture of a love story filled with appealing leads, a villain with a drinking problem, an intuitive grandmother, and an array of adorable dogs. It's a movie that captures the vibrant colors of autumn and the serene lakes of Louisiana.
The film boasts commendable performances from its cast. Efron, as a marine finding his way back to life through a photograph, gives a nuanced portrayal of a man torn between his past and the promise of a new future. His chemistry with Schilling, who plays a single mother with a troubled past, is both believable and engaging.
The script stays true to Sparks's storytelling style, merging romance with dark realities. It presents a world where things are not just black and white but filled with shades of gray. The narrative explores themes of destiny, hope, and the transformative power of love, making it a compelling watch.
Despite the book being based in North Carolina, the film's setting in Louisiana adds to the charm. The movie offers a visual treat with filming locations spanning from the Houmas House and Gardens to various sites in Illinois, Missouri, Colorado, and Nevada.
While The Lucky One may be another addition to the long list of romantic dramas, it stands out for its engaging storytelling and solid performances. It's a film that makes you believe in love's magic and fate's power. The Lucky One is worth watching for fans of Nicholas Sparks, romantic dramas, or those simply looking for a heartfelt movie.