Where was Wild Things filmed?
1998
City Locations
Key Biscayne (USA), Miami (USA), San Pedro (USA), Fort Lauderdale (USA), Coral Gables (USA), Virginia Key (USA), Coconut Grove (USA)
Location Types
School, House, Office, School, Mansions, Beach/Oceanview
Location Styles
Beachfront, Modern Building, Modern Car, School, Federal Building, Mediterranean
About Wild Things
"Wild Things" (1998) is a gripping trip through a complex web of deception, seduction, and murder set in the humid background of South Florida. The film begins with Sam Lombardo, a high school guidance counselor, being accused of rape by two of his pupils, the wealthy and deceptive Kelly Van Ryan and the mysterious Suzie Toller. These claims propel Lombardo into a crisis that appears to jeopardize his career and reputation.
However, as Detective Ray Duquette dives more into the case, it becomes clear that there is much more to the story. What begins as a simple case quickly becomes a convoluted plot full of twists, turns, and betrayals. The audience is guided through a maze of greed, vengeance, and hidden intentions, where nothing is what it appears and everyone has something to conceal.
Beyond its sensuous scenes and startling plot twists, "Wild Things" is noted for its captivating mystery and clever manipulation of audience expectations. It's a film that challenges you to guess at every step, just to surprise you with clever revelations.
Wild Things Locations
The 1998 romantic thriller "Wild Things" stood out not only for its steamy story twists but also for its realistic depiction of South Florida's lush and vibrant scenery. The filmmakers used a range of sites around this sun-soaked region to bring to life the sultry, perilous atmosphere in which the film's plot unfolds. South Florida, with its tranquil beaches and magnificent mansions, provided the ideal setting for the film's intricate web of deceit and seduction.
A substantial chunk of the movie was recorded at Ransom Everglades High School in Coconut Grove, Miami, emphasizing the school's distinctive architecture and scenic setting. The film also made use of the natural splendor found in Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park in Key Biscayne and Oleta River State Park, which added a sense of remoteness to the scenario. Nearby, the streets of Miami and its surroundings exuded authenticity and liveliness, capturing the spirit of Florida's charm.
For fans of the film or those simply drawn to the charm of Florida's surroundings, a visit to the "Wild Things" filming locations might be worthwhile. Exploring these sites provides not only an insight into the film's production but also an opportunity to explore the different splendor of South Florida, from its urban appeal to its natural beauties, making it an unforgettable adventure for any tourist.
Fun Fact
The film uses an out-of-court settlement as a plot device, which skillfully reveals the individuals' true objectives. This feature, paired with the film's notorious pool scene, solidified "Wild Things" as a cult classic. The film's ability to combine sensual thriller aspects with a captivating crime plot makes it a remarkable watch, even 25 years later.
In the High School scene in Wild Things
Ransom Everglades High School, 3575 Main Hwy, Miami, FL 33133, United States
Sam Lombardo (Matt Dillon), a well-acclaimed high school guidance counselor, finds himself engaged in a scandal. The calm of the educational establishment is disturbed when two students accuse Lombardo of rape, thrusting the school into the heart of a controversy that captivates the entire neighborhood. The claim sparks a complex inquiry, bringing in Detective Ray Duquette (Kevin Bacon), who feels there is more to the story than meets the eye.
Ransom Everglades High School in Miami is a prestigious private school known for its rigorous academics and emphasis on environmental stewardship. Founded in 1903, it educates students in grades 6-12, blending traditional and innovative teaching methods. Its campus in Coconut Grove combines natural beauty with modern facilities.
To reach 3575 Main Hwy, Miami, FL 33133, where Ransom Everglades High School is located, take US-1 to South Miami. Turn onto SW 17th Ave heading north, then make a right onto S Bayshore Dr. Continue until you reach Main Hwy; the school will be on your right.
Lombardo coming to Bowden's office scene in Wild Things
361 Opa-locka Blvd, Opa-locka, FL 33054, USA
Sam Lombardo (Matt Dillon) gets legal counsel from Ken Bowden (Bill Murray). As Lombardo walks in, he is greeted by the quiet presence of Bowden's secretary, who remains seated at her desk, underscoring the office's low-key operation. The encounter between Lombardo and Bowden is marked by a mix of desperation and cautious hope, as Lombardo seeks Bowden's assistance in navigating the dark waters ahead.
361 Opa-locka Boulevard in Opa-locka, Florida, is a place that is steeped in the area's rich architectural and cultural past. Opa-locka is known for its unique Moorish Revival design and this address is in the middle of a busy neighborhood. It shows how the city is dedicated to protecting its unique look while also promoting togetherness and cultural pride among its citizens.
To get to 361 Opa-locka Blvd, Opa-locka, FL 33054, start your trip on I-95 going north. Take the 12th exit for FL-826 W, which will lead you to Miami Lakes. Keep going on FL-826 and get into the two right lanes to get off at NW 27th Ave. Go straight ahead until you can make a right turn onto Opa-locka Blvd; then, turn left onto NW 27th Ave. If you keep going down this street, you'll see 361 Opa-locka Blvd. on your right. This building stands out because of its unique design and the friendly atmosphere it has.
Detective arriving at the Van Ryan's house scene in Wild Things
40 E Star Island Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA
Detective Ray Duquette (Kevin Bacon) visits the Van Ryan mansion. His motivation is a mix of mistrust and resolve to discover the truth about the complicated series of events involving Sam Lombardo (Matt Dillon), Kelly Van Ryan (Denise Richards), and Suzie Toller (Neve Campbell). Duquette approaches Kelly in the guest house, creating a sense of impending peril. The tension between them quickly builds, resulting in a stunning exchange of gunfire.
In Miami Beach, E Star Island Drive is a private area known for its high-end waterfront homes with stunning views of Biscayne Bay. Some of the most luxurious houses in Florida can be found at this prestigious address. Its residents enjoy a peaceful life while still being close to Miami's lively culture scene, beautiful beaches, and top-notch shopping and dining.
Start going east on MacArthur Causeway to get to 40 E Star Island Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA. From FL-907 N/Alton Rd., take the turn that says "Star Island". Continue on the bridge, and then use the two lanes on the left to turn left onto Bridge Rd. Again, go left on Star Island Dr. Through the guard gatehouse you go. 40 E Star Island Dr is on the right; it is grand and only a few people know about it.
Detective working on the case scene in Wild Things
Coral Gables City Hall, 405 Biltmore Way, Coral Gables, FL 33134, United States
Detective Duquette (Kevin Bacon) investigates more into the case of Sam Lombardo, a high school guidance counselor accused of raping two of his students. The atmosphere in the police station is tense, as Duquette, motivated by intuition and obsession, pushes the investigation's bounds, frequently fighting with the district attorney's (Bill Murray) office, which encourages prudence and restraint. His desire to discover the truth leads to a sequence of interrogations and confrontations that expose the ugly underbelly of Blue Bay's supposedly idyllic society.
The Coral Gables City Hall is a famous landmark in Coral Gables; its design is based on Mediterranean styles. This famous building, at 405 Biltmore Way, was added to the US National Register of Historic Places on July 24, 1974. It has beautiful columns and a grand portico that represent the city's cultural history and civic pride.
From Downtown Miami, go to 405 Biltmore Way, Coral Gables, FL 33134. Get on I-95 S and merge onto US-1 S. Keep going on US-1, and then turn right onto SW 42nd Ave/Le Jeune Rd. After that, go to Biltmore Way and turn left. On your right, you'll see Coral Gables City Hall. Its unique Mediterranean style makes it a landmark in the middle of the city.
At the Courthouse scene in Wild Things
Miami-Dade County Courthouse, 73 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33130, United States
As the trial unfolds, viewers are introduced to Kenneth Bowden (Bill Murray), Lombardo's (Matt Dillon) unconventional attorney, whose presence adds a sense of unpredictability and wit to proceedings. Suzie Toller (Neve Campbell) takes the stand, and her performance blurs the line between genuine vulnerability and planned dishonesty. Her testimony, which includes emotional breakdowns and stunning discoveries, serves as a catalyst for unraveling the film's intricate network of deception.
At 73 West Flagler Street in Miami, you can find the Miami-Dade County Courthouse, which is an important piece of history and architecture. This famous building has been a courthouse since the beginning. It helps Miami-Dade's 11th Judicial Circuit and County courts run, and it provides many services to the people it serves, from managing civil and criminal cases.
To reach Miami-Dade County Courthouse, located at 73 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33130, start from I-95 in Miami. Take Exit 2C for Miami Ave toward Downtown. Merge onto Downtown Distributor; keep left. Follow signs for US-1 N and merge onto SE 2nd Ave. Turn left onto SE 2nd St. Turn right at the 1st cross street onto S Miami Ave. S Miami Ave turns slightly right and becomes W Flagler St. The courthouse will be on your left.
Conclusion
"Wild Things" concludes its serpentine tale of deceit, seduction, and revenge in a fashion as unpredictable and enthralling as the story that precedes it. The film, set against the lush backdrop of southern Florida, masterfully utilizes a diverse range of locations to enhance its narrative's complexity and depth. From the opulent estates of Blue Bay to the stark interiors of the local police station and courthouse, each setting contributes to the film's atmospheric tension and character dynamics. The swampy glades surrounding the area add an element of danger and mystery, encapsulating the film's themes of hidden truths lying beneath the surface.
As the final twists unravel, revealing the characters' true motives and the extent of their manipulations, "Wild Things" leaves its audience pondering the deceptive facades people construct. The conclusion ties together the intricate plot lines, leaving a lasting impression of the film's vibrant setting and its dark, compelling story.