Where was The Ring filmed? All filming locations explored
The Ring, directed by Gore Verbinski, is a chilling adaptation of the Japanese horror film Ringu, based on Koji Suzuki’s novel. Released on October 18, 2002, this supernatural thriller captivated audiences with its haunting visuals and gripping storyline.
The plot follows journalist Rachel Keller, who investigates her niece Katie’s mysterious death. Rachel digs deeper and finds a scary videotape that’s linked to a string of deaths. Both the story and the locations in The Ring are very scary, which adds to the overall unsettling mood.
Though other scenes were shot in Oregon and California, The Ring was mostly filmed in Washington state. From the foggy Pacific Northwest to soundstages in Los Angeles, the chosen locations helped shape the movie’s unique atmosphere by combining actual environments with supernatural terror.
Filming locations of The Ring
Seattle’s haunting influence
The Ring’s setting in Seattle was chosen for its gloomy, overcast climate. Director Gore Verbinski aimed to evoke feelings of isolation and dread, perfectly aligning with the film’s themes.
The city’s perpetual rain and gray skies provided a natural backdrop that contributed to the film’s oppressive atmosphere.
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Shelter Mountain Inn – Camp Firwood, Bellingham, WA
Where Rachel discovers the cursed videotape, the Shelter Mountain Inn is among the most unforgettable places in The Ring. Filming this pivotal scene took place at Camp Firwood, a summer camp on Bellingham, WA’s shoreline near Lake Whatcom.
The camp’s serene environment sharply contrasts with the ominous events of the film. While the exterior shots were filmed here, the interior of the cabin was recreated on a soundstage in Los Angeles. Despite being used for only one film, Camp Firwood remains a notable location for fans of The Ring.
Cabin 12 and the red tree – Stanwood, WA
Cabin 12, the infamous site where much of the supernatural activity unfolds, is located in Stanwood, WA. This private property, about 40 miles from Bellingham, was used for the exterior shots.
The iconic red tree, dubbed “Lucille” by the crew, was constructed with steel and plaster, adorned with silk leaves. The tree’s presence added a haunting aesthetic, though production faced difficulties due to high winds repeatedly toppling it. Despite these challenges, the scene’s eerie ambiance was preserved.
Morgan Ranch – Emerald Glen Farm, Monroe, WA
Emerald Glen Farm in Monroe, WA, served as the Morgan Ranch, where Rachel confronts Richard Morgan. This working farm was transformed into a grim setting, pivotal to the film’s climax. Located about an hour from Seattle, the farm provided the perfect rural backdrop for the intense and revealing scenes involving Samara’s backstory.
Rachel’s apartment – Harbor Steps Apartments, Seattle, WA
Rachel’s home life, a stark contrast to her terrifying investigation, was filmed at Harbor Steps Apartments in downtown Seattle.
Situated near the Seattle Art Museum, this modern complex added a sense of normalcy to Rachel’s otherwise tumultuous journey. The juxtaposition of her urban dwelling with the film’s rural and supernatural settings underscored the pervasive reach of the curse.
Photo store – 1923 5th Avenue, Seattle, WA
The photo store, where Rachel picks up Katie’s unsettling photographs, was located at 1923 5th Avenue in Seattle. This spot was near the city’s monorail line, making it a recognizable landmark. Although the store has since been demolished, it played a significant role in advancing The Ring’s plot.
Aidan and Noah’s encounter – 1901 Westlake Avenue, Seattle, WA
The moment when Rachel’s son Aidan encounters his father Noah outside The Westin Hotel was filmed at 1901 Westlake Avenue.
This scene is crucial, as it deepens the characters’ connections and furthers the plot. The location is near several other key filming sites, making it a central point in the narrative.
Noah drops Rachel at the ferry – Port Townsend Ferry Terminal, Port Townsend, WA
The Port Townsend Ferry Terminal served as the departure point for Rachel’s journey to Moesko Island.
Filming took place here over five days, during which the crew had to simulate rain using hoses and sprinklers to maintain the film’s signature overcast look. This scene was vital in portraying Rachel’s increasing desperation and determination.
Rachel calls Aidan and deleted scenes – Dungeness Landing County Park, Sequim, WA
Dungeness Landing County Park in Sequim, WA, filmed several scenes, including Rachel’s phone call to Aidan. The calmness of the park offered a clear contrast to the tense situations.
The park itself is still a lovely place for visitors even though the Dungeness Oyster House — where some scenes were filmed — was destroyed in 2009.
Moesko Island Lighthouse – Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Newport, OR
Yaquina Head Lighthouse in Newport, Oregon, helped to bring the fictional Moesko Island — home of the menacing lighthouse — to life. Rising to a height of 93 feet, this lighthouse from Oregon is rich in local legend including stories of hauntings.
This real-world history added an extra layer of authenticity to the film’s supernatural elements. Visitors can tour the lighthouse, but they might want to brace for its eerie ambiance.
Anna Morgan’s leap – Fort Worden State Park, Port Townsend, WA
Anna Morgan’s dramatic leap was filmed at Fort Worden State Park. This historic site, once a military fortification, offered the perfect rugged cliffs for the scene. Known for its panoramic views and rich history, the park is also a popular spot for weddings and conferences today.
Production and director’s vision
Director Gore Verbinski’s vision was pivotal in crafting The Ring’s eerie atmosphere. Filming began at Fort Worden State Park, even before the script was finalized.
Verbinski’s decision to shoot in the Pacific Northwest was driven by the region’s naturally overcast and isolated environment. This choice enhanced the film’s sense of dread and hopelessness, crucial for a horror movie. The cinematography, led by Bojan Bazelli, used soft lighting and a distinct blue-green color palette to evoke the film’s haunting mood.
Trivia about The Ring’s filming locations
The production faced numerous challenges, particularly with the weather in Washington. The constant rain not only delayed shooting but also made set construction difficult.
For instance, the iconic red tree at the Stanwood location had to be reassembled multiple times due to strong winds. Despite these obstacles, the visuals remained compelling, contributing significantly to its success.
Can you visit the locations?
Many of the locations used in The Ring are accessible to the public. Camp Firwood still operates as a summer camp, and Yaquina Head Lighthouse offers tours.
Fort Worden State Park is open for various events, and the Harbor Steps Apartments remain a residential complex. While some locations, like the photo store, no longer exist, fans can still explore many of the film’s iconic sites in Washington and Oregon.
The Pacific Northwest’s misty landscapes, coupled with carefully chosen sites in Oregon and California, create a sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll. For movie buffs, visiting these sites provides an opportunity to enter the creepy world of The Ring and relive its most terrible events in the very locations they were inspired by.
Source: Sportskeeda
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