A Kiss Before Dying (1956) is a classic thriller movie that shows the dark side of ambition and lies.
Directed by Gerd Oswald, it’s based on Ira Levin’s suspenseful book with the same title.
The story is about a clever but dangerous young man named Bud Corliss, played by Robert Wagner.
Corliss wants money and a high social status, so he plans a series of murders to get what he wants.
He hides his cold, heartless personality behind a charming smile.
The movie’s tense mood and Corliss’s actions make viewers wonder about the true meaning of love, obsession, and how far someone might go to reach their goals.
Where Was A Kiss Before Dying Filmed?
A Kiss Before Dying was filmed across the United States and the United Kingdom, making use of iconic city locations, scenic countryside spots, and historic landmarks. Here’s a breakdown of where it was filmed in each country.
Filming Locations in the United States
Arizona – Tucson
- Tucson Children’s Museum (200 S 6th Ave)
This museum served as the backdrop for schoolyard scenes where Bud is shown hanging out. - Chase Bank (2 E Congress St)
This location was used for the scenes where Bud and Dorothy are at the bank and on the rooftop. Chase Bank also appeared in other films like Fast Getaway 2 and Stir Crazy.
- Pima County El Presidio Park (160 W Alameda St)
The courtyard scene with Bud was filmed here. This spot was also seen in Stir Crazy. - Natural Grocers and Falora Pizza (3000 E Broadway Blvd)
Bud and Dorothy’s stop at a drug store was filmed here. - University of Arizona’s Main Gate (1007 E University Blvd)
This entrance appears as the place where Bud waits to meet Dorothy. It was also featured in Revenge of the Nerds.
New York
- St. Thomas Church (1 W 53rd St, New York City)
This historic church was the setting for Jonathan and Ellen’s wedding scene. - The Lexington Hotel (511 Lexington Ave, New York City)
Known as the “Hobart” Hotel in the movie, this is where Patricia Farren’s murder scene takes place.
- Queensboro Bridge (E 59th St, New York City)
Jonathan dramatically throws a suitcase into the Hudson River from this bridge. - Baseball Field, Central Park (Manhattan, New York City)
Jonathan plays baseball with kids on this field while Ellen and Cathy chat nearby.
Virginia
- Charlottesville
Used as Jonathan’s childhood home, representing a warm, nostalgic setting.
Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia Police Headquarters
Though meant to represent Philadelphia, these scenes were actually filmed at First Chicago House in Covent Garden, London.
Filming Locations in the United Kingdom
England
- Brocket Hall (Lemsford, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire)
This grand estate was used as the Carlsson family’s mansion. - Gaddesden Place (Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire)
Adds a classic, grand setting to the movie. - Shepperton Studios (Shepperton, Surrey)
Indoor scenes were filmed here to bring the story to life.
Wales
- Tremorfa Steel Works (Cardiff, South Wales)
This industrial site was used as the Carlsson Copper Factory seen in the opening sequence.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is A Kiss Before Dying about?
A: A Kiss Before Dying is a suspenseful thriller about a young man named Bud Corliss, who will do anything, even commit murder, to achieve wealth and social status.
Q: Who directed A Kiss Before Dying?
A: The film was directed by Gerd Oswald, known for his work in the film noir genre.
Q: Is A Kiss Before Dying based on a book?
A: Yes, the movie is based on Ira Levin’s novel A Kiss Before Dying, which was published in 1953.
Q: When was A Kiss Before Dying filmed?
A: The filming took place from June 1955 to July 7, 1955.
Q: Who plays the main character, Bud Corliss, in the movie?
A: Robert Wagner plays Bud Corliss, the ambitious and manipulative main character.