Where Was the Movie "The Russians Are Coming" Filmed?

Hello there, movie buffs! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of cinema to explore the filming locations of the classic comedy, "The Russians Are Coming, The Russians Are Coming". Released in 1966, this Cold War-era film directed by Norman Jewison has left audiences in stitches for over five decades. But where exactly did this hilarious tale of a Soviet submarine crew trying to invade a small New England island unfold? Let's find out! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and where was the movie the russians are coming filmed.

The Island of Gloucester, Massachusetts

The movie's primary setting is the fictional island of Gloucester, Massachusetts, named "Waikiki Island" in the film. However, the actual filming location was a bit different. The production team chose a real-life island called Nantucket, located about 30 miles off the coast of Massachusetts, to serve as the backdrop for the film.

Why Nantucket?

Nantucket's quaint, picturesque, and somewhat isolated nature made it an ideal choice for portraying a remote New England island. The island's rich history, beautiful beaches, and charming architecture provided the perfect atmosphere for this fish-out-of-water story.

Filming on Location

The movie's crew set up shop on Nantucket for several weeks during the summer of 1965. They transformed the island into a Soviet-invaded paradise, complete with fake Russian signs, military vehicles, and even a makeshift submarine. The locals were reportedly delighted to participate in the filming process, with many appearing as extras in the movie.

The Submarine Scene: A Studio Creation

While much of the film was shot on location in Nantucket, the submarine scenes were filmed in a studio. The production team built a full-scale replica of a Soviet Foxtrot-class submarine on a soundstage in Los Angeles. This allowed them to control the environment and create the necessary special effects for the underwater scenes.

The Impact on Nantucket

The filming of "The Russians Are Coming" had a significant impact on Nantucket. The movie brought national attention to the island and helped boost its tourism industry. To this day, the film remains a point of pride for Nantucket residents and a popular topic among visitors.

Visiting the Filming Locations Today

If you're a fan of the movie and find yourself in Nantucket, there are still plenty of locations to explore that were featured in the film. Here are a few spots you might recognize:

1. 1. The Beach Scene: The iconic beach scene where the Soviet sailors first arrive on the island was filmed at Coatue Beach. This beautiful stretch of sand is located at the western end of Nantucket and is accessible by a short hike or a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
2. 2. The Lighthouse: The lighthouse featured in the film is the historic Siasconset Beach Lighthouse. This picturesque lighthouse is located on the southern shore of Nantucket and is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
3. 3. Downtown Nantucket: Many of the scenes featuring the island's townsfolk were filmed in downtown Nantucket. The charming streets and historic buildings provide a perfect backdrop for the film's comedic antics.

So, there you have it, folks! The next time you're watching "The Russians Are Coming," you can appreciate the beautiful island of Nantucket that served as the film's backdrop. And who knows? Maybe you'll even find yourself planning a trip to this charming New England destination.

Happy watching, and until next time, keep exploring the fascinating world of cinema!