“Kiss the Girls” is a famous American neo-noir psychological thriller film from 1997. Directed by Gary Fleder, it stars the talented Morgan Freeman, Ashley Judd, and Cary Elwes. The movie’s screenplay, written by David Klass, is based on James Patterson’s best-selling 1995 novel. It was such a hit that it got a sequel called “Along Came a Spider” in 2001.
The film’s narrative revolves around police officers pursuing a serial kidnapping. They get a significant break when a victim tries to escape for the first time, which aids them in their search.
Even though it’s over 25 years old, “Kiss the Girls” is enjoying renewed popularity on Netflix. It’s currently ranked No. 3 on Netflix’s Global Top 10 list, with 7.1 million views and 13.7 million hours of viewing. However, it’s important to note that it’s not available on Netflix in the United States. But don’t worry! People in the U.S. can still watch it for free on Pluto TV or without ads if they subscribe to Paramount+.
When and Where “Kiss the Girls” Was Filmed?
The main filming for “Kiss the Girls” started on April 16, 1996, and wrapped up on July 10, 1996. The film was shot across various interesting locations in the United States and Canada.
North Carolina Filming Locations
Duke University, Durham, North Carolina: Several scenes were filmed on the prestigious Duke University campus.
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina: Known for its research and development, this area was also used for filming.
Chapel Hill, North Carolina: Some parts of the film were shot here, including outside a residence in Chapel Hill.
Duke Chapel Tower, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina: This iconic tower in Duke University appears in the film.
Wilson Library Dome, Chapel Hill, North Carolina: The beautiful dome of this library is featured.
Kenan Stadium, Chapel Hill, North Carolina: This sports stadium also served as a filming location.
Bell Tower, Chapel Hill, North Carolina: The Bell Tower in Chapel Hill was another spot used in the movie.
California Filming Locations
University of Southern California, Los Angeles: The University Park campus provided an excellent backdrop for several sequences.
McClure Tunnel, Santa Monica: The movie depicts the renowned tunnel in Santa Monica.
Irvine: Filming also occurred in Irvine, California.
California Institute of Technology, Pasadena: The Athenaeum and other Caltech locations were used, including the mansion at 445 Prospect Square in Pasadena, where police arrived with a search warrant.
Adams Historic District, Los Angeles: A house in this historic district served as another filming location.
Disney Ranch: This ranch served as a location for some outdoor scenes.
Canadian Filming Locations
North Vancouver, British Columbia: Some parts of the film were shot in North Vancouver, Canada, adding a touch of Canadian scenery to the movie.
Special Sets and Sound Stages
Most of the indoor sets, including tunnels and underground chambers, were specially built on sound stages at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles. These sets were designed by Nelson Coates, the American production designer, to bring the thrilling story to life.
“Kiss the Girls” took its viewers on a thrilling ride through diverse locations in North Carolina, California, and even Canada. Each place added its unique charm and atmosphere to the film. Whether it’s the historic sites of Durham, the academic aura of Duke University, the scenic beauty of Santa Monica, or the technical brilliance of Caltech, these locations made the movie visually engaging and exciting. So, next time you watch “Kiss the Girls,” you’ll know exactly where those gripping scenes were filmed!
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Kiss the Girls (1997)
Q: Where was “Kiss the Girls” filmed?
A: “Kiss the Girls” was filmed in various locations across the United States and Canada. Key filming spots included:
North Carolina: Durham, Duke University, Research Triangle Park, Chapel Hill (including the Duke Chapel Tower, Wilson Library Dome, Kenan Stadium, and the Bell Tower).
California: University of Southern California in Los Angeles, McClure Tunnel in Santa Monica, Irvine, the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, and a house in the Adams Historic District of Los Angeles.
Canada: North Vancouver, British Columbia.
Most indoor scenes, including the tunnels and underground chambers, were filmed on sound stages at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles.
Q: When was “Kiss the Girls” filmed?
A: Principal photography for “Kiss the Girls” began on April 16, 1996. The film’s production took about three months, with filming concluding on July 10, 1996.
Q: What is the release date of “Kiss the Girls”?
A: “Kiss the Girls” was released in theaters on October 3, 1997.
Q: Who are the main stars of “Kiss the Girls”?
A: The film stars Morgan Freeman as Detective Alex Cross, Ashley Judd as Dr. Kate McTiernan, and Cary Elwes as Detective Nick Ruskin. These actors brought the intense thriller to life, captivating audiences with their performances.
Q: What is the storyline of “Kiss the Girls”?
A: “Kiss the Girls” follows the story of police officers searching for a serial kidnapper. The investigation takes a crucial turn when a victim, Dr. Kate McTiernan, manages to escape. Her escape provides valuable insights that help the police, especially Detective Alex Cross, in their hunt for the kidnapper.
