Where Was Risky business Filmed? in 1983 American teen comedy-drama, will forever be remembered as the film that launched Tom Cruise’s career into superstardom. Directed by Paul Brickman, the movie explores themes of youthful rebellion, ambition, and moral consequences. One of the factors that contributed to its memorable impact is the carefully chosen locations that serve as the backdrop for the film. So where was “Risky Business” shot? Let’s delve into the iconic filming locations that made this movie a cult classic.
The Setting: Chicago, Illinois
The Family Home: Highland Park
Joel Goodson, played by Tom Cruise, lives in a beautiful home located in the affluent neighborhood of Highland Park. The home itself has since become a point of interest for die-hard fans of the movie and architecture enthusiasts alike. Its suburban tranquility contrasts sharply with the reckless adventures that Joel embarks upon, adding a layer of irony that enriches the film.
The Iconic L-Train
A significant amount of shooting took place on Chicago’s L-train, or “El” as it’s colloquially called, which is the rapid transit system serving the city. It is on the L-train that several key moments of the story unfold. The train system encapsulates the rush and uncertainty of big city life, serving as a metaphor for Joel’s journey from adolescence to adulthood.
Downtown Chicago: The Business District
Several scenes were shot in the hustle and bustle of downtown Chicago. The area’s skyscrapers and crowded streets symbolize the high-stakes world of business and adulthood that Joel aspires to enter. The city’s business district represents the ambition and complexity of the real world that lies ahead for the young protagonist.
Night Scenes: The Darker Side of Chicago
Where Was Risky business Filmed?it explores the seedier, darker corners of Chicago. Night scenes were often filmed in lesser-known neighborhoods and dives, providing a realistic portrayal of the city’s nightlife. These locations offer an atmosphere of danger and excitement, reflecting the moral and ethical quandaries that the characters face.
The University: Princeton or a Stand-in?
While the storyline involves Joel’s aspiration to get into Princeton University, the scenes that depict Princeton were not actually filmed on the real campus. Instead, stand-ins were used for these segments, maintaining the illusion without requiring a location shift to New Jersey where Princeton is located.
Final Thoughts of Where was “Risky Business” Shot?
Where Was Risky business Filmed?it serves as a love letter to Chicago, capturing its diverse landscapes and unique architecture in a way few films have managed. The city serves as more than just a backdrop; it’s a character in its own right, shaping the narrative and the destinies of the characters who inhabit it. Even decades later, the film’s iconic locations continue to attract fans and tourists alike, eager to relive the rebellious spirit and moral dilemmas encapsulated by this 1983 classic.
FAQs
“Risky Business” was primarily filmed in and around Chicago, Illinois, USA. The city’s iconic locations played a significant role in the film’s backdrop.
Some notable locations include the Highland Park area, where Joel Goodson’s (Tom Cruise) house is situated, and the Drake Hotel, which features prominently in the movie. The film also showcases scenes in various parts of Chicago.