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The Peacemaker movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was The Peacemaker filmed?

1997

City Locations

New York, NY; Philadelphia, PA (USA)

Location Types

Hotels/Motels, Church/Temple

Location Styles

Gothic/Victorian, Colonial, Building Dated/Retro, Foreign

About The Peacemaker

Journey into the thrilling world of international espionage with The Peacemaker, a groundbreaking political action thriller directed by Mimi Leder. Launched in 1997, this pulsating film marked the beginning of DreamWorks Pictures' cinematic journey and has since become a household name in the action film genre. The Peacemaker features Hollywood stalwarts such as George Clooney, Nicole Kidman, Marcel Iureș, Armin Mueller-Stahl, and Aleksandr Baluev, adding an impressive layer of star power that perfectly complements its gripping storyline.

The tale, drawn from Andrew Cockburn and Leslie Cockburn’s 1997 work "One Point Safe," is a haunting narrative of Russia’s expansive nuclear arsenal. Clooney, in the role of Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Devoe, and Kidman, portraying Dr. Julia Kelly, team up to investigate a chilling nuclear incident involving stolen warheads. Through their journey, they unravel a terrorist plot, paving the path for a heart-stopping race against time to halt a catastrophic explosion aimed at the UN headquarters in New York City.

Though met with mixed reviews, The Peacemaker managed to carve its niche in the global film market, amassing a respectable box office gross of $110 million. Critical responses, while varied, included a 46% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 43 out of 100 on Metacritic. Despite not securing major award nominations, The Peacemaker remains an impactful piece of cinema, an intriguing blend of political intrigue, high-stakes action, and star-driven performances.

The Peacemaker Locations

The Peacemaker is a cinematic journey that takes viewers across the globe. While the narrative unfolds in various corners of the world, the film was predominantly shot in Slovakia, with specific sequences captured in the bustling cities of New York and Philadelphia.

The scenic beauty of Slovakia provides a stunning backdrop for many of the film's pivotal scenes. Notably, Gavric's House, the scenes featuring Devoe and Kelly in Vienna, and the residence of the Kordech were all filmed here. Slovakia's Staré Mesto, or Old Town, was a key filming site, as was the iconic Dóm svätého Martina in Bratislava, which doubled as a church in New York for the film.

Meanwhile, the hustle and bustle of New York City also played a significant role in The Peacemaker. Iconic locations such as the luxurious Peninsula Hotel and the chase scene on East 42nd Street (between 3rd Avenue and 2nd Avenue) in Manhattan added an urban grittiness to the film's overall aesthetic.

A visit to these destinations would undoubtedly be worth it for any fan of The Peacemaker. It offers a unique opportunity to step into the shoes of the film's characters and witness firsthand the stunning landscapes and bustling cityscapes that bring this captivating story to life. Whether it's Slovakia's historic charm or New York City's vibrant energy, a journey to these filming locations promises to be just as exhilarating as the movie itself.

The train scene in The Peacemaker

039 01 Čremošné, Slovakia

Russian Army General Aleksandr Kodoroff (Aleksandr Baluev) and a rogue Spetznaz unit launch a daring heist on a transport train carrying warheads. They transfer nine warheads to another train while setting the remaining one on a deadly collision course with a passenger train. The ensuing detonation of the 500-kiloton warhead results in an enormous loss of life, effectively delaying any immediate investigation.

This pivotal opening scene was filmed in Slovakia, near the small village of Čremošné. Known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, this location perfectly contrasted the high-stakes action of the movie's opening sequence.

Moreover, nearby lies the hiking area of Čierna voda Čremošné chaty. A visit here offers fans of the movie a unique opportunity to relive the film's thrilling start in a peaceful setting. It's a chance to combine the excitement of stepping into a movie location with the serenity of a nature walk.

For those interested in visiting this filming location, the journey is quite straightforward. From Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, you can take a train ride that gets you to the location and allows you to soak in the same atmosphere featured in the film. To get to the hiking area, it is possible to hire a car and get there in 2 hours.

Uncover Filming Locations

Devoe and Kelly in Vienna scene in The Peacemaker

Hlavné námestie 357/6, 811 01 Bratislava, Slovakia

Kelly (Nicole Kidman) and Devoe (George Clooney) attempt to uncover details about a terrorist hijacking operation. They gather information through an Austrian trucking company that serves as a front for the Russian Mafia. In Vienna, they meet with Vertikoff (Armin Mueller-Stahl) before assuming false identities to visit Shumaker (Alexander Strobele), who organizes the Russians' trucking.

This scene was filmed in the Old Town of Bratislava, specifically at Hlavné námestie 357/6, which was used as a stand-in for Vienna. The Old Town is a historic and vibrant part of Bratislava, filled with landmarks such as Michael's Gate, the Old Town Hall, and the Main Square. The Old Town Hall also houses the Bratislava City Museum, which offers a deep dive into the city's rich history.

While exploring the Old Town, film enthusiasts can relive the suspenseful scene from The Peacemaker and visit multiple filming locations easily due to their proximity. This includes the site at Kapitulská 304/8, where the poignant flashback scene involving Gavrić was shot.

Reaching this location is relatively straightforward if you're in Bratislava. If you're staying in the city center, it's just a short walk to the Old Town. Public transportation options are also available, including trams and buses.

Explore Video Shoot Locations

The residence of the Kordech scene in The Peacemaker

Primaciálne námestie, 811 01 Bratislava, Slovakia

Devoe and Kelly, after extracting information from Shumaker through torture, make their escape in Vertikoff's (Armin Mueller-Stahl) car. They are pursued through Vienna by Shumaker's men, resulting in a high-stakes chase that ends tragically with Vertikoff's death while he is attempting to offer a bribe.

Part of this intense sequence was filmed at Primate's Square in Bratislava, Slovakia. In the heart of Bratislava's Old Town, Primate's Square is a historic location between Slovak National Uprising Square and Main Square. The square is named after the Primate's Palace, a neoclassical architectural marvel gracing the square's southern side.

Apart from the Primate's Palace, Primate's Square also houses the Tourist Information Visitors Centre and the Municipality of Bratislava. A narrow passage from the northwest corner of the square leads to the Jesuit Church, Main Square, and the Old Town Hall, adding to the historic charm of the location.

Reaching Primate's Square in Bratislava is relatively easy. If you're in the city center, it's within walking distance. Alternatively, you can use public transportation, such as trams or buses, to reach the Old Town. From M. R. Štefánik Airport Bratislava, it takes approximately 40 minutes by bus or just 15 minutes by taxi to reach your destination.

Film Shoot Locations Guide

The flashback scene in The Peacemaker

Kapitulská 304/8, 811 01 Bratislava, Slovakia

A poignant flashback scene reveals the motivation behind the character Gavrić's actions. The scene depicts Gavrić (Rene Medvešek) mourning the death of his wife and daughter, who were tragically killed in a sniper attack in Sarajevo.

This scene was filmed in the picturesque Old Town of Bratislava, specifically at Kapitulská 304/8. Known for its historic charm and vibrant atmosphere, Old Town is one of Bratislava's most iconic locations. The area boasts numerous attractions, including the baroque Bratislava Castle perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the city, the visually striking Blue Church adorned with colorful glazed tiles, and Medická Záhrada Park, home to an array of sculptures.

Visiting Kapitulská 304/8 and the surrounding Old Town provides an opportunity to experience the location's unique blend of history, culture, and modernity.

If you're interested in visiting this location, it's relatively straightforward. Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is well-connected by air, rail, and road networks. Once in the city, you can reach Old Town via public transportation, such as trams or buses, or enjoy a leisurely walk if you're staying in the city center.

Check Production Spaces

Gavrić is tracked down in the hotel scene in The Peacemaker

The Peninsula New York, 700 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019, USA

An intense scene unfolds in Manhattan where Devoe, Kelly, and the FBI attempt to apprehend Gavrić (Marcel Iureş). However, Gavrić manages to escape from his hotel to a nearby church. In Gavrić's hotel room, Kelly uncovers chilling evidence of Gavri's plan to detonate explosives at the United Nations building in New York City.

This sequence was filmed at The Peninsula New York, a luxurious hotel known for its elegance and world-class service. With a rich heritage dating back to 1866 in Hong Kong, The Peninsula Hotels is renowned as Asia's oldest hotel company. The name 'Peninsula' has become synonymous with romance, glamor, and style, offering stunning facilities in some of the world's most vibrant cities.

To visit this filming location, you'll need to head to 700 5th Ave, New York—the address of The Peninsula, New York. If you're already in New York City, it's easily accessible by taxi, subway, or on foot if you're in the vicinity. The nearest subway stations are 5 Av/53 St and 57 St – 7 Av.

Access New York Filming Locations

The wounded Gavrić at the church scene in The Peacemaker

St. Martin's Cathedral, Rudnayovo námestie 1, 811 01 Bratislava, Slovakia

A severely wounded Gavrić is cornered in a Catholic church near the United Nations building. Devoe confronts him with the haunting line, "It's not our war!". Gavrić retorts with a chilling, "It is now!" before taking his own life. In a nail-biting finish, Kelly manages to remove a part of the bomb's explosive lens shell at the last moment, preventing it from reaching critical mass within the plutonium core.

This dramatic sequence was filmed at St. Martin's Cathedral in Bratislava, Slovakia. This grand structure, situated at the western border of the historical city center below Bratislava Castle, is one of Bratislava's oldest and largest churches. From 1563 to 1830, it served as the coronation church of the Kingdom of Hungary. Its stark Gothic lines, coloring, and impressive 279-ft spire make it a dominant feature of Old Town's skyline. The tower was once an integral component of the city's fortifications, seamlessly integrated into the defensive walls of the urban landscape.

You can take a taxi or public transport to this location from M. R. Štefánik Airport in Bratislava. First, take bus number 61 from the airport to the main train station (Hlavná stanica). From there, switch to bus number 93, exiting at the Zochova stop. From Zochova, it's just a short walk to St. Martin's Cathedral. The church is open for visitors and is conveniently located near the old town, making it an easy addition to any sightseeing itinerary.

Conclusion

The Peacemaker is a notable action thriller from DreamWorks studio. The film boasts impeccable technical credits and compelling performances by George Clooney and Nicole Kidman. However, it has been criticized for its lack of originality, with many elements seeming like retreads from other thrillers.

Clooney and Kidman skillfully navigate the film's high-stakes world as a macho military hero and a bright female government official, respectively. While their performances are commendable, the script has been critiqued for its clichéd plot developments, particularly its climax revolving around dismantling a bomb with a ticking red digital readout.

Despite these criticisms, The Peacemaker stands out for its diverse filming locations. The film takes viewers on a cinematic journey globally, with scenes predominantly shot in Slovakia and sequences captured in New York City and Philadelphia. This use of varied locations adds a global scale to the narrative and enhances the film's visual appeal.

As the first big release from DreamWorks, The Peacemaker contributed to establishing the studio's reputation in the movie industry. However, it also served as a reminder of the need for originality in plot development and character arcs. Overall, if you're a fan of action thrillers and enjoy the star power of Clooney and Kidman, The Peacemaker could be worth watching.