
The 1984 classic Footloose is a film that has left an indelible mark on pop culture, not just for its electrifying dance sequences and iconic soundtrack, but also for its memorable filming locations. The movie, which tells the story of a city boy who moves to a small town where dancing is banned, was filmed in several locations that added to its charm and authenticity. But where exactly did they film Footloose, and why do dancers always seem to find the most picturesque spots to express themselves? Let’s dive into the details.
The Primary Filming Locations
The majority of Footloose was filmed in Utah, a state known for its stunning landscapes and small-town charm. The fictional town of Bomont, where the story is set, was brought to life in the real-life town of Lehi, Utah. Lehi provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s rural setting, with its wide-open spaces, quaint streets, and a sense of community that felt authentic to the story.
One of the most iconic locations in the film is the Bomont High School, which was actually filmed at Payson High School in Payson, Utah. The school’s gymnasium, where Kevin Bacon’s character, Ren McCormack, famously dances out his frustrations, became a symbol of rebellion and self-expression. The gymnasium scenes were pivotal to the film’s narrative, and the choice of Payson High School added a layer of realism to the story.
Another key location was the Bomont Mill, where Ren works and where several important scenes take place. The mill was filmed at the Geneva Steel Plant in Vineyard, Utah. The industrial setting of the mill contrasted sharply with the rural surroundings, highlighting the tension between tradition and modernity that is central to the film’s theme.
Why Utah?
Utah was chosen for its ability to represent the heartland of America, with its vast landscapes and small-town feel. The state’s diverse geography allowed the filmmakers to capture a variety of settings, from the open fields where Ren practices his dance moves to the industrial backdrop of the mill. Utah’s relatively low population density also meant that the filmmakers could shoot without too many disruptions, allowing them to create a more immersive experience for the audience.
Moreover, Utah’s film-friendly policies and incentives made it an attractive choice for the production. The state has a long history of hosting film productions, and its infrastructure and local talent pool made it easier for the Footloose team to bring their vision to life.
The Dance Spots: Why Dancers Always Find the Best Locations
One of the most intriguing aspects of Footloose is how the characters always seem to find the most visually stunning spots to dance. Whether it’s Ren dancing in the warehouse, Ariel dancing on the bridge, or the final dance-off in the high school gym, the locations are as much a part of the story as the characters themselves.
This phenomenon isn’t unique to Footloose. In many dance films, the locations chosen for dance sequences are carefully selected to enhance the emotional impact of the scene. Dancers, by nature, are drawn to spaces that allow them to express themselves fully, and filmmakers often capitalize on this by choosing locations that are visually striking or symbolically significant.
In Footloose, the warehouse where Ren dances is a perfect example. The empty, industrial space represents both the constraints of the town’s conservative values and the freedom that Ren seeks. The bridge where Ariel dances is another powerful location, symbolizing the transition between her old life and the new possibilities that Ren represents.
The Legacy of Footloose’s Locations
The locations used in Footloose have become iconic in their own right. Payson High School, for example, has become a pilgrimage site for fans of the film, who visit to see where the famous dance scenes were filmed. The Geneva Steel Plant, though no longer in operation, remains a symbol of the film’s themes of industry and change.
The film’s locations have also had a lasting impact on the communities where they were filmed. Lehi, Utah, has embraced its connection to Footloose, with local businesses and residents often referencing the film. The town has even hosted events celebrating the film’s legacy, bringing fans from all over the world to experience the magic of Bomont.
Conclusion
Footloose is a film that continues to resonate with audiences, not just for its story and music, but also for the locations that helped bring that story to life. From the small-town charm of Lehi to the industrial grit of the Geneva Steel Plant, the film’s settings played a crucial role in creating the world of Bomont. And while dancers may always find the best spots to express themselves, it’s clear that the filmmakers of Footloose knew exactly how to use those locations to tell a story that would endure for decades.
Related Q&A
Q: Why was Utah chosen as the primary filming location for Footloose?
A: Utah was chosen for its ability to represent the heartland of America, with its vast landscapes and small-town feel. The state’s diverse geography and film-friendly policies made it an ideal choice for the production.
Q: What real-life locations were used to represent Bomont in Footloose?
A: The fictional town of Bomont was primarily filmed in Lehi, Utah, with Payson High School serving as Bomont High School and the Geneva Steel Plant representing the Bomont Mill.
Q: Why are dance locations in films often so visually striking?
A: Dance locations are often chosen to enhance the emotional impact of the scene. Filmmakers select visually striking or symbolically significant locations to complement the dancers’ movements and the story’s themes.
Q: How has Footloose impacted the communities where it was filmed?
A: The film has had a lasting impact on communities like Lehi, Utah, where local businesses and residents often reference the film. The town has even hosted events celebrating the film’s legacy, attracting fans from around the world.
Q: Are the filming locations of Footloose still accessible to the public?
A: Many of the filming locations, such as Payson High School, are still accessible to the public. However, some locations, like the Geneva Steel Plant, are no longer in operation but remain iconic symbols of the film.