Introduction
“Sleeping with the Enemy” is a classic 1990 romantic-thriller film starring Julia Roberts as Laura Burney, a woman who escapes from her abusive husband by faking her own death. Directed by Joseph Ruben, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $175 million at the box office and launching Roberts into superstardom. But while the plot and acting may have been what drew audiences in, the stunningly beautiful locations used in the film are just as captivating.
In this article, we will explore the various filming locations used in “Sleeping with the Enemy” and discover the behind-the-scenes stories of how they were chosen and constructed. We’ll also look at how bringing Hollywood to Iowa impacted the local community and how you can track down the exact film locations if you’re ever in the area.
Exploring the Locations of “Sleeping with the Enemy”: A Behind-the-Scenes Look
The majority of the filming for “Sleeping with the Enemy” took place in Iowa, with some scenes filmed in California. The Iowa locations included the cities of Cedar Rapids and Davenport, as well as the small towns of Burlington and LeClaire. While these locations may not be as iconic as Los Angeles or New York City, they provide a unique backdrop for the story that would have been impossible to replicate elsewhere.
The production team chose these locations for a variety of reasons, including their natural beauty and close proximity to one another. They also wanted to capture the essence of rural America, which was essential to the story. The team even went so far as to scout out specific houses and buildings that fit the aesthetic they were looking for, such as the infamous white farmhouse featured prominently in the film.
How Filming “Sleeping with the Enemy” Brought Hollywood to Iowa
Bringing Hollywood to Iowa had a huge impact on the local communities, both economically and culturally. The production team worked closely with locals to ensure that the filming process was as smooth and unobtrusive as possible. In addition to the usual perks such as free food and souvenirs, the production team also provided jobs for locals, giving them a chance to be part of a major motion picture.
The crew also made sure to give back to the community, donating money to local charities and organizations, as well as providing free tickets for screenings of the film. By doing so, they not only boosted the local economy but also showed the people of Iowa that Hollywood could be a force for good.
A Tour of the Iconic Sets of “Sleeping with the Enemy”
In addition to the real-life locations used in the film, the production team also built several sets to add to the overall atmosphere of the film. These sets were designed and constructed to look like they were real homes and businesses, complete with furniture and props. One of the most iconic sets was the white farmhouse where Laura Burney lives with her husband until she finally makes her escape.
The production team paid meticulous attention to detail when constructing the sets, making sure that everything looked authentic. They even went so far as to hire local craftsmen and artisans to create custom pieces for the sets, ensuring that each set was unique and reflective of the local culture.
Visiting the Real-Life Locations of “Sleeping with the Enemy”
Although many of the locations used in “Sleeping with the Enemy” are fictional, there are still plenty of real-life locations featured in the film. These include the historic Burlington Riverfront Park, which was used for the scene where Laura Burney meets her friend for lunch; the Grand Opera House in Davenport, which was used for the dramatic chase scene; and the Cedar Rapids Public Library, which was used for the scene where Laura Burney first learns about her husband’s true nature.
These locations were chosen for a variety of reasons, including their aesthetic appeal, cultural significance, and proximity to other filming locations. The production team also wanted to make sure that the locations felt authentic and reflective of the local culture, which is why they chose locations that had a rich history and deep connection to the people of Iowa.
Revisiting the Cinematic Landscape of “Sleeping with the Enemy”
The cinematography used in “Sleeping with the Enemy” is just as important as the locations used in the film. The production team worked hard to capture the beauty of Iowa and its people, using sweeping aerial shots and intimate close-ups to convey the emotion of the story. They also used lighting and color to great effect, creating a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere at times while also highlighting the darkness of the story.
The production team also used clever camera angles to enhance the tension and suspense of the film. For example, during the climactic boat scene, the camera is placed low on the water, emphasizing the danger of the situation. This use of creative camera work helps to draw viewers in and make them feel more connected to the story.
Tracking Down the Film Locations of “Sleeping with the Enemy”
If you’re ever in the area and want to experience the locations used in “Sleeping with the Enemy” firsthand, there are a few ways to do so. The first is to simply visit the locations and take a self-guided tour. Many of the locations are open to the public, such as the Burlington Riverfront Park and the Cedar Rapids Public Library.
You can also research the exact locations used in the film and try to visit them. There are numerous online resources available to help you track down the exact locations, such as IMDb’s “Filming Locations” page and the Iowa Film Office’s website. With a bit of detective work, you can easily find out exactly where scenes from the movie were filmed.
Conclusion
From the breathtaking scenery of Iowa to the cinematic brilliance of the cinematography, “Sleeping with the Enemy” is a film that has stood the test of time. Its popularity has endured for decades, thanks in part to its stunning locations and sets. From the white farmhouse to the Grand Opera House, these locations helped bring the story to life and reminded us of the power of cinema.
If you’re ever in the area, be sure to take some time to explore the real-life locations used in the film. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try to track down the exact locations used in the movie. Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to be amazed at the beauty and complexity of “Sleeping with the Enemy.”
