Lights, Camarillo, Action: Which Movies Were Filmed in Camarillo?
Camarillo is always setting the stage for some of Hollywood’s brightest stars, with a long history of film production and behind-the-scenes magic. From Hollywood blockbusters to episodes of beloved TV shows, these are more than just locations— they’re destinations made for shining on the silver screen. Don’t look now, because Camarillo is ready for its close-up!
3 Reasons Why Ventura County Shines in the Film Industry
1. Diverse Landscapes & Locations
Camarillo is truly a filmmaker’s dream come true, with a wide variety of different landscapes spreading across the region. It’s like a movie set with all the best background sets, rolled into one! In addition to having gorgeous natural landscapes, Camarillo is also home to historic landmarks you won’t find anywhere else. These sites add a special touch of authenticity to the big screen, from the eerie dilapidated halls of the former Camarillo State Hospital to the original Camarillo Ranch.
2. Proximity to Hollywood
Who said you have to be in Hollywood to make great movies? Camarillo is just a stone’s throw (figuratively speaking, of course) away from the entertainment capital of the world, and it takes full advantage. Filmmakers get the best of both worlds here— easy access to Hollywood resources, with more unique, down-to-earth filming locations that are sure to stun audiences in their seats.
3. Supportive Community
Camarillo isn’t just a pretty face! We’ve also got plenty of heart, especially when it comes to making films; Camarillo locals and officials are all about creating movie magic. Need help with permits? Looking for the perfect location? They’ve got you covered. Plenty of folks around these parts have insider knowledge and an unquenchable passion for the craft, and are more than ready to help you uncover hidden gems, breathtaking backdrops, and film-defining locations.
What Has Been Filmed In/Near Camarillo?
The following movies, TV shows and music videos have all had scenes filmed in Camarillo! Roll the clip…
The Snake Pit (1948)
The story of a woman during her stay in a mental institution. Much of the film, including and especially exterior shots, was shot at Camarillo State Hospital!
Daddy’s Deadly Darling (1972)
Also known as Pigs, this film follows a woman who escapes from a mental hospital and starts helping the owner of a roadside diner murder people and feed them to pigs. Ew! That mental hospital was, in fact, Camarillo State Hospital.
Bottle Rocket (1996)
Wes Anderson’s surreal feature film debut follows a group of friends who plan an ambitious crime spree. The opening scene of the movie was shot on the grounds of Camarillo State Hospital.
Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997)
This fun-filled, fabulous film follows two 28-year-old girls attending their ten-year high school reunion, where they make up ridiculous stories and careers in order to impress their previous classmates. The scene when Romy and Michele pull up to the reunion (and THAT limo scene) was partially filmed at Spanish Hill Club in Camarillo!
‘N Sync’s “I Drive Myself Crazy” Music Video (1999)
Four 90s heartthrobs lament their lost loves while in a mental institution. The music video for this bop was filmed at Camarillo State Hospital!
Pearl Harbor (2001)
This historical drama follows two childhood friends as they enlist to fight in World War II and find themselves tangled in a romance with a beautiful nurse. The film culminates in the attack on Pearl Harbor. The scenes of the induction center were shot at Camarillo State Hospital!
The Ring (2002)
A reporter finds a horrifying videotape that causes viewers to die one week after watching. Scenes were filmed at the well behind Aliso Hall at California State University Channel Islands!
Jarhead (2005)
Jarhead is about a Marine who enlists in a sniper course during boot camp, where he deals with boredom, anxiety, and questions surrounding his identity. The scenes of the marine barracks were filmed in and around California State University’s Grand Salon!
Blue Moon Ball (2021)
Blue Moon Ball centers around novelist Grace Montague returning home to continue writing when she runs into her first love Sean, who’s in desperate need of her help to save the city’s historic ballroom, aka the historic Camarillo Ranch.
Queenpins (2021)
This film (inspired by a true story) is about two housewives who create a multi-million dollar coupon scam. Scenes were filmed at the Camarillo Airport!
Honorable Mentions
Other movies of note for Camarillo include Rescue from Gilligan’s Island (1978), The Two Worlds of Jennie Logan (1979), and The Shape of Things (2003). And while maybe not featured on the big screen, Camarillo has seen its share of TV show filmings including The Quantum Leap (1969), Buffy the Vampire Slayer, X-Files (2000-01), and in Huell Howser’s: California’s Golden Parks.
It’s time for us to roll the credits on this blog post, folks. Thanks for tuning in and taking a look at Camarillo’s film history with us— see you on the silver screen!
Be the star of your adventure–book your trip now to visit these amazing film locations in Camarillo!