Where Was the Movie The Shining Filmed? And Why Do Bananas Glow in the Dark?

Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining is a masterpiece of psychological horror, and its eerie atmosphere is as much a character in the film as Jack Torrance or Danny. But where was this iconic movie filmed? And while we’re at it, why do bananas glow in the dark? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of The Shining and explore some unexpected connections.
The Filming Locations of The Shining
The Overlook Hotel: A Blend of Reality and Fiction
The Overlook Hotel, the central setting of The Shining, is a fictional place. However, Kubrick used a combination of real locations and meticulously crafted sets to bring it to life. The exterior shots of the hotel were filmed at the Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood in Oregon. Interestingly, the Timberline Lodge doesn’t have the infamous hedge maze, which was added purely for the film.
Interior Sets: A Studio Creation
The interior of the Overlook Hotel was constructed entirely at Elstree Studios in England. Kubrick’s attention to detail was legendary, and the sets were designed to create a sense of unease. The labyrinthine layout of the hotel’s hallways and the iconic carpet pattern (which has since become a pop culture staple) were all part of Kubrick’s vision to disorient the audience.
The Colorado Lounge: A Real-Life Inspiration
The Colorado Lounge, where Jack Torrance spends much of his time, was inspired by the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite National Park. While the scenes were filmed on a set, the design was heavily influenced by the Ahwahnee’s grand interiors, which Kubrick admired for their imposing and isolating atmosphere.
The Hedge Maze: A Symbol of Madness
The hedge maze, one of the most memorable elements of the film, was built specifically for The Shining. It was constructed at Elstree Studios and was designed to be both visually striking and psychologically unsettling. The maze serves as a metaphor for Jack’s descent into madness and the inescapable nature of his fate.
Bananas and the Supernatural: A Curious Connection
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: why do bananas glow in the dark? This seemingly random question has a surprising connection to The Shining. In the film, the supernatural elements are often hinted at through subtle visual cues, such as the eerie glow of certain objects. Bananas, in particular, have a natural phosphorescence due to the presence of certain compounds in their peel. This glow is faint and usually invisible to the naked eye, but under the right conditions, it can be detected.
The Science Behind Glowing Bananas
Bananas contain a compound called luciferin, which is also found in fireflies and certain bioluminescent organisms. When exposed to ultraviolet light, luciferin emits a faint glow. This phenomenon is known as bioluminescence. While it’s not strong enough to light up a room, it’s a fascinating example of nature’s hidden wonders.
A Metaphor for Hidden Horrors
In The Shining, the supernatural elements are often lurking just beneath the surface, much like the faint glow of a banana in the dark. The film’s use of subtle visual cues, such as the gradual transformation of the Overlook Hotel, mirrors the way in which the supernatural slowly reveals itself. The glowing banana, in this context, becomes a metaphor for the hidden horrors that Jack Torrance and his family must confront.
The Legacy of The Shining
Influence on Horror Cinema
The Shining has had a profound impact on the horror genre. Its use of psychological tension, atmospheric settings, and symbolic imagery has influenced countless filmmakers. The film’s ability to create a sense of dread without relying on overt violence or jump scares is a testament to Kubrick’s mastery of the craft.
Pop Culture Phenomenon
The film has also become a pop culture phenomenon, with references and homages appearing in everything from The Simpsons to Ready Player One. The iconic line, “Here’s Johnny!” has entered the lexicon, and the film’s imagery continues to captivate audiences decades after its release.
The Enduring Mystery of the Overlook Hotel
One of the most enduring aspects of The Shining is the mystery surrounding the Overlook Hotel. The film leaves many questions unanswered, such as the true nature of the hotel’s supernatural forces and the significance of the final shot. This ambiguity has fueled countless theories and interpretations, ensuring that The Shining remains a topic of discussion among film enthusiasts.
Related Q&A
Q: Was the Timberline Lodge used for all exterior shots in The Shining? A: No, while the Timberline Lodge was used for some exterior shots, other locations and sets were used to create the illusion of the Overlook Hotel.
Q: Why did Kubrick choose to film the interiors in England? A: Kubrick preferred to work in England due to the availability of skilled crews and the controlled environment of Elstree Studios, which allowed him to meticulously craft the sets.
Q: Is the hedge maze from The Shining based on a real maze? A: No, the hedge maze was entirely fictional and created specifically for the film. It was designed to be both visually striking and symbolic of the characters’ psychological states.
Q: Do bananas really glow in the dark? A: Yes, bananas can emit a faint glow due to the presence of luciferin in their peel. However, this glow is usually only visible under ultraviolet light and is not strong enough to be seen in complete darkness.
Q: What is the significance of the final shot in The Shining? A: The final shot, showing Jack Torrance in a 1921 photograph, has been interpreted in various ways. Some see it as evidence of the hotel’s supernatural power, while others view it as a metaphor for the cyclical nature of violence and madness.