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The Net movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was The Net filmed?

1995

City Locations

Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington DC (USA)

Location Types

House, Office, Modern Office

Location Styles

Beachfront, Federal Building, Colonial, Modern Building, Mid-century Modern

About The Net

The Net is a 1995 American cyber-thriller film directed by Irwin Winkler, known for his work on films like Rocky and The Right Stuff. The movie stars Sandra Bullock in the lead role as Angela Bennett. Bullock, recognized for her roles in movies such as Speed and Miss Congeniality, delivers a riveting performance in this suspenseful thriller.

The Net delves into the world of high-tech nightmares. Angela Bennett (Sandra Bullock) is a computer programmer who unwittingly stumbles upon software that provides access to classified government information. She initially dismisses it, heading off to Mexico for a vacation. However, a series of uncanny events, culminating with the death of a close friend, make her suspicious. Her fears are confirmed when she returns to the United States only to find that her identity has been wiped from all records, and she is now a wanted criminal. It becomes evident that a nefarious group is after the software she possesses, forcing her into a dangerous game of cat and mouse as she attempts to clear her name and prevent the software from falling into the wrong hands. This intriguing concept inspired a subsequent cable TV series.

The Net received mixed reviews from both fans and critics. Metacritic assigned the film a score of 51 out of 100 based on 22 reviews, indicating mixed or average reviews. Renowned film critic Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars, acknowledging that Bullock's naturalistic performance carried the film while some plot elements seemed contrived. Despite the mixed reviews, the film continues to be remembered for its unique take on the then-nascent world of the internet and digital identity, making it a noteworthy entry in the cyber-thriller genre.

The Net Locations

The Net was filmed across various locations in the United States, predominantly in California and Washington, D.C., with a brief detour to Spain. The movie features several iconic landmarks and places of interest, providing a thrilling narrative and a visually engaging backdrop that brings the story to life.

Most of The Net was shot in California, with key scenes filmed at notable locations around the state. One such scene, where Angela evades the police by sleeping in a crowded parking lot, was filmed at 1200 Santa Monica Boulevard. The Santa Monica Pier is also prominently in the movie as the meeting point between Angela and her internet acquaintance Cyberbob.

The exterior scenes of Cathedral Software, the IT firm where Angela works, were shot at McKesson Plaza, a commercial complex located at 1 Post Street in San Francisco. Angela's compact apartment, supposedly situated at 407 Finley Avenue in Venice, California, was actually filmed at 407 28th Avenue in the same region.

In addition to California, the production team traveled to Washington, D.C., to film an early sequence in which the U.S. Secretary of Defense takes his life amidst a significant conspiracy. This scene shows viewers the Potomac River, one of the city's most famous landmarks.

Given the movie's diverse filming locations, a trip to The Net's featured areas could be worthwhile for film fans or those interested in cinematography. Besides offering the chance to explore the real-life settings of crucial scenes, such a trip would provide an opportunity to discover these locations' beauty and cultural richness. From the bustling streets of Santa Monica and San Francisco to the historical significance of Washington, D.C., each location offers unique attractions and points of interest.

Senator Bergstrom's suicide scene in The Net

153 National Plaza, Oxon Hill, MD 20745, USA

In Washington, DC, a crucial scene unfolds, showcasing the esteemed Senator Bergstrom (Ken Howard). After receiving an HIV-positive diagnosis, the Senator heads to Hains Point at the tip of East Potomac Park. Here, he eats an apple, converses with his son, and tragically ends his life.

The intensity of this moment is heightened by the imposing and unsettling sculpture, aptly named "The Awakening," which is prominently featured in the shot as the Senator pulls the trigger of his gun. The aluminum sculpture portrays a massive figure engaged in a relentless struggle to emerge from the ground. It consists of five distinct components. The towering right arm stretches 17 feet above the surface while the left leg and knee extend upward. Simultaneously, the left hand and right foot break through the earth's crust. The bearded face of the sculpture captures a sense of terror, with an open mouth releasing a primal scream.

This iconic sculpture was initially located at Hains Point but has since been moved to its current location at 153 National Plaza, Oxon Hill, in the National Harbor area, now a bustling spot with apartment buildings and restaurants.

To get to the National Harbor from central Washington, DC, you can take the I-295 S freeway, a convenient option. Alternatively, public transportation is available, although it may require multiple transfers and take nearly two hours. Nonetheless, fans will easily find their way here.

Angela's house scenes in The Net

407 28th Ave, Venice, CA 90291, USA

Angela Bennett is a computer systems analyst employed by Cathedral Software in San Francisco. Interestingly, she resides in Venice, Los Angeles, California while carrying out her remote work. The film beautifully showcases Angela's modern, tech-savvy lifestyle, going as far as depicting her ordering pizza online—an innovative concept during that period.

One of the movie's memorable scenes occurs at Angela's house, which serves as her home and office. In the movie, the address is mentioned as "407 Finley Avenue," but the true location is 407 28th Avenue in Venice. The house's exterior and the surrounding neighborhood are frequently featured in the movie, providing an authentic representation of Angela's isolated, technology-driven life.

Visiting the actual filming location may pose a challenge, as the property is privately owned and not open to visitors. However, fans can still stroll down 28th Avenue in Venice, California, to catch a glimpse of the house's exterior and the neighborhood. Respecting the residents' privacy and appreciating the location from a distance is recommended.

It takes approximately 30 minutes to drive from Los Angeles via I-10 W, depending on the traffic conditions. Alternatively, if you prefer public transportation, you can take the 33 bus, but please note that the travel time will be longer, around an hour and a half.

Bennett takes on the I.D. of ‘Ruth Marx’ scene in The Net

Pasadena City Hall, 100 Garfield Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA

After reporting her situation to the police, Bennett discovers that her Social Security number has been reassigned to a "Ruth Marx," a fictitious identity created by antagonist Devlin (Jeremy Northam), who has manipulated the police computer system. The situation spirals out of control as Angela adopts the identity of 'Ruth Marx' in a desperate attempt to return to the States.

One of the pivotal scenes unfolds at the US Embassy, where Angela makes the ill-advised decision to take on Ruth Marx's identity. This scene was filmed at the central fountain court of Pasadena City Hall, located at 100 North Garfield Avenue. This iconic building has been used in numerous films, dating back to Charlie Chaplin's "The Great Dictator" in 1941, serving as the palace of Adenoid Hynkel. Its Italian Renaissance and Spanish influences, ornate fountain, red roof, and lush garden courtyard create an exquisite backdrop for this critical moment in the film.

Pasadena City Hall is a landmark from 1927, a rectangular tower outlining a spacious court. The grounds are open to the public, making it accessible for movie fans. No permit is needed for personal photography at City Hall. However, professional photographers are obligated to hold a valid business license.

If you're in downtown Los Angeles and heading to Pasadena City Hall, you can take the CA-110 N/Arroyo Seco Pkwy. Follow N Arroyo Pkwy until you reach 100 N Garfield Ave. The journey by private car typically takes around 20 minutes.

Angela plans to meet Cyberbob scene in The Net

Santa Monica Pier, 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA

Angela plans to meet with her online ally, Cyberbob. However, the nefarious Praetorians intercept their online chat and relay it to Devlin, who is revealed to be a contract killer for the cyber-terrorists. Despite the danger, Angela manages to escape from Devlin, but not without cost, as the Praetorians manipulate hospital computer records, causing the death of her friend Champion (Dennis Miller).

This thrilling sequence occurs on Santa Monica Pier, a location featured in many films, including "The Sting." Here, Angela evades Devlin on the Santa Monica Pier Carousel in a sequence reminiscent of the climax of Alfred Hitchcock's "Strangers on a Train." The choice of this iconic location adds an extra layer of tension and drama to the scene.

Santa Monica Pier is a popular filming location and a vibrant hotspot packed with family-friendly activities, street performers, restaurants, and shops. It offers stunning views and over a century of history, from being the last stop on the iconic Route 66 to offering a variety of food shops, street performances, and breathtaking sunsets.

To get to Santa Monica Pier from downtown Los Angeles, you can take the I-10 W highway. Follow I-10 W to 4th/5th St in Santa Monica. Take exit 1A from I-10 W, then continue on 4th St. Drive to Colorado Ave, and you will reach the pier. Public transportation is also available, which typically takes approximately one hour to reach if coming from Los Angeles.

Angela hitchhikes to Cathedral's office scene in The Net

1 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94104, USA

Bennett finds herself falsely accused of murder and identified as Ruth Marx. In a desperate bid to clear her name, Angela hitchhikes to Cathedral's office in San Francisco. In this scene, she tactically triggers a fire alarm to ensure the safe evacuation of the building. Simultaneously, she gains access to her impostor's computer and establishes a connection between the cyber-terrorists and Gregg Microsystems, thus exposing their nefarious scheme.

The action shifts to San Francisco, where she finally uncovers the net conspiracy at the headquarters of the 'Cathedral' corporation located at 1 Post Street at Market Street. This iconic building was used for the exterior shots in the film. Today, it serves as a government office and while fans are not permitted inside, they are free to view the exterior of the location and soak in the atmosphere.

To reach 1 Post Street from downtown San Francisco, start by heading west on California St towards Davis St. Then, make a left turn onto Battery St and take the first right onto Pine St. Next, follow Grant Ave and turn left after The North Face Post St. You will find the building on your right.

Angela gets to the Moscone Center scene in The Net

Moscone West, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA

Having escaped from Cathedral's office, Angela is pursued by Devlin and the impostor posing as her, revealed to be the real Ruth Marx from Cathedral Software. In a dramatic turn of events on the catwalks of the convention center, Devlin accidentally kills the Ruth Marx impostor. Angela then cleverly uses a fire extinguisher to ambush Devlin, causing him to fall to his death.

This thrilling scene was filmed at Moscone West, part of the Moscone Center, San Francisco's premier meeting and exhibition facility. Nestled in the bustling downtown of San Francisco, this remarkable site spans two adjoining 11-acre blocks, bordered by Mission, Folsom, and Fourth Streets. Its prime location places it right in the heart of the city. The center is conveniently within walking distance of nearly 20,000 hotel rooms, making it an accessible location for film fans to visit. The building remains largely unchanged from its appearance in the movie, adding to the nostalgia of fans who visit this iconic location.

To get to the Moscone Center from downtown San Francisco, you can simply walk. Head south on Market Street, then turn right onto 3rd Street. Continue on 3rd Street until you reach Howard Street where you will turn left. The Moscone Center will be on your right.

Conclusion

The Net is a suspenseful thriller that, despite its plot's questionable plausibility, managed to capture the audience's attention with its innovative use of the internet as a critical plot device. The film, set against the backdrop of various US locations, predominantly California and Washington, D.C., with a brief detour to Spain, offers a visually engaging narrative. These locations, from the bustling streets of Santa Monica and San Francisco to the historically significant Washington, D.C., add depth and authenticity to the storyline.

Sandra Bullock's performance as Angela Bennett, a system analyst caught up in a web of cyber conspiracy, has been lauded as charismatic and engaging. Despite the fantastical storyline, Bullock grounds the film with her relatable portrayal of an ordinary woman entangled in extraordinary circumstances. This period was perhaps charmed in Bullock's career, marking her ability to carry both dramatic and action roles convincingly.

While containing suspense and intrigue, the script has been criticized for its stretches of believability. Notably, the movie sets a record with three consecutive TV news stories crucial to the plot, which might seem implausible to some viewers. However, as film critic Roger Ebert pointed out, the movie is still enjoyable despite these shortcomings, hinting at the potential of Bullock's acting prowess when paired with a great screenplay.

The idea behind The Net—using the internet as a trendy hook—was unique when it was released. The internet was still relatively new to the public, and The Net capitalized on this novelty. Beyond being a thriller, The Net delves into the nature of identity in a bureaucracy, explored through the lens of technology. It is an early cautionary tale about the dangers of trusting our internet privacy, a relevant theme today.

In conclusion, The Net is worth watching for its engaging performances, innovative exploration of internet-related themes, and captivating locations. Despite its shortcomings, it offers an entertaining watch and a unique perspective on the impact of the digital age.