The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming! is a funny movie from 1966, directed by Norman Jewison. It is based on a book by Nathaniel Benchley called The Off-Islanders.
The movie takes place during the Cold War and uses humor to show the tension of that time.
The story starts when a Soviet submarine gets stuck near a small island called Gloucester Island, which is in New England.
The Soviet crew is scared that the Americans will think they are attacking. So, they send a few men to the island to find a boat that can help free their submarine.
The people on the island think the Russians are trying to invade, leading to many funny and confusing situations.
Where Was The Russians Are Coming Filmed?
The 1966 comedy The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming! is a Cold War-era film filled with humor and misunderstandings.
The movie is set on a fictional New England island but was not filmed there. Instead, most scenes were shot in California.
The film’s creators chose scenic coastal towns to stand in for the fictional Gloucester Island. Let’s dive into the exact locations used for this classic movie!
Filming Locations for The Russians Are Coming, the Russians Are Coming!
Mendocino, California
Most of the filming took place in Mendocino, a beautiful coastal town in Northern California. Its Victorian homes and stunning ocean views made it an ideal match for a small New England island.
- Town Scenes: Mendocino’s streets appeared in many scenes featuring the locals and the Soviet sailors. The town’s old-fashioned charm created a believable backdrop for the film’s comedic moments.
- Mendocino Headlands: The dramatic cliffs and rugged shoreline added to the story’s tension and visual appeal. These locations were featured prominently in scenes involving the stranded Soviet submarine.
Mendocino has been a favorite spot for filmmakers for decades. Its timeless look and picturesque setting make it feel like a place out of another era.
Fort Bragg, California
Just a short drive from Mendocino, Fort Bragg was another key filming location.
- Coastal Landscapes: Wider shots of the coastline were filmed near Fort Bragg. The area’s open views provided the perfect setting for scenes with boats and dramatic ocean backdrops.
- Noyo River: The river and its surrounding docks were likely used for water-based scenes, adding to the film’s authentic maritime feel.
Fort Bragg offered a slightly different look than Mendocino while still matching the fictional island’s coastal vibe.
Bodega Bay, California
Some believe that parts of the movie were filmed in Bodega Bay, another scenic spot in Northern California.
While not officially confirmed, Bodega Bay’s coastal charm and history as a filming location for other movies, like Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds, make it a likely choice for certain shots.
Why California Instead of New England?
The filmmakers chose California over New England for practical reasons. California’s mild weather made outdoor filming easier, and its diverse coastal areas could easily double for New England scenery.
Mendocino and Fort Bragg provided the perfect mix of historic architecture and natural beauty without the challenges of shooting on the East Coast.
FAQs About the Filming Locations
Q: Why did the filmmakers choose Mendocino?
A: Mendocino’s historic buildings and scenic coastline were perfect for creating the look of a New England island. It provided the right atmosphere without needing major changes.
Q: Was any part of the movie filmed in New England?
A: No, the entire movie was filmed in California, mainly in Mendocino and Fort Bragg.
Q: What makes Mendocino a popular filming location?
A: Mendocino’s old-style charm, Victorian architecture, and natural beauty make it a favorite for filmmakers. It’s perfect for creating timeless, small-town settings.
Q: Can you visit the filming locations today?
A: Yes! Both Mendocino and Fort Bragg have preserved their natural beauty and historic charm. Fans of the film can explore these areas and recognize many spots seen in the movie.