Where Was Knives Out Filmed?

If you’re a fan of the 2019 whodunit movie, Knives Out, you’re probably curious about the stunning locations that served as the backdrop for the gripping murder mystery. In this post, we will answer the question that’s been on everyone’s mind: where was Knives Out filmed? From historic mansions to quaint towns, get ready to discover the stunning locations that made this movie a visual masterpiece. So, grab some popcorn and settle in as we take you on a journey through the filming locations of Knives Out!

Where Was Knives Out Filmed?

Knives Out was primarily filmed in Massachusetts. More specifically, the majority of the filming took place in and around Boston, including the towns of Waltham, Marlborough, and Dedham. The centerpiece of the film, Harlan Thrombey’s sprawling mansion, was actually a combination of two different locations. 

The exterior shots of the mansion were filmed at the Ames Mansion in Borderland State Park in North Easton, while the interior shots were filmed at the Kimmel Estate in Milton. Other notable filming locations include the Thayer Conservatory in Lancaster, the Lyman Estate in Waltham, and the Eliot School in Boston. The picturesque New England landscapes and historic buildings provide the perfect backdrop for the film’s sophisticated and mysterious atmosphere.

What Was Knives Out All About?

The story revolves around the wealthy and eccentric Thrombey family, who gather at their ancestral estate to celebrate the 85th birthday of their patriarch, Harlan Thrombey. But, the festivities take a dark turn when Harlan is found dead the next morning, apparently having committed suicide.

The police investigate the case, but renowned private detective Benoit Blanc is also brought in to uncover the truth. As Blanc questions each member of the family, dark secrets and conflicting motives emerge, leading to a thrilling and unpredictable conclusion.

Who Was In The Cast of Knives Out?

The cast of Knives Out features a star-studded ensemble of talented actors, each bringing their unique charisma and energy to the film. Here’s a rundown of the main cast:

• Daniel Craig as Benoit Blanc, a private detective hired to investigate the death of Harlan Thrombey.
• Chris Evans as Ransom Drysdale, Harlan’s grandson and a spoiled playboy who becomes a suspect in the case.
• Ana de Armas as Marta Cabrera, Harlan’s nurse and friend, who becomes a key witness in the investigation.
• Jamie Lee Curtis as Linda Drysdale, Harlan’s daughter and a successful businesswoman.
• Michael Shannon as Walt Thrombey, Harlan’s son and the CEO of his publishing company.
• Don Johnson as Richard Drysdale, Linda’s husband and a real estate mogul.
• Toni Collette as Joni Thrombey, Harlan’s daughter-in-law and a lifestyle guru.
• Katherine Langford as Meg Thrombey, Linda’s daughter and a college student.
• Jaeden Martell as Jacob Thrombey, Walt’s son and a loner who spends most of his time on his phone.
• Christopher Plummer as Harlan Thrombey, the wealthy patriarch of the Thrombey family whose death sets the events of the film in motion.

There’s also a cameo appearance from Jordan Gordon-Levitt!

Who Directed Knives Out? 

Knives Out was directed by Rian Johnson. Johnson is an American filmmaker who has directed several acclaimed films, including Brick, Looper, and Star Wars: The Last Jedi. He also wrote the screenplay for Knives Out, which was praised for its clever twists and turns, witty dialogue, and memorable characters. 

Johnson’s directorial style is characterized by his attention to detail, innovative storytelling, and ability to blend genres in unexpected ways. His work on Knives Out has been widely praised, and the film has become a modern classic of the mystery genre.

Did Knives Out Receive Any Awards? 

Knives Out received several awards and nominations for its outstanding cast and crew. Here are some of the film’s most notable achievements:

• Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay (Rian Johnson)
• Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy
• Screen Actors Guild Award nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture
• BAFTA Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay (Rian Johnson)
• Critics’ Choice Movie Award win for Best Original Screenplay (Rian Johnson)
• Writers Guild of America Award win for Best Original Screenplay (Rian Johnson)

Overall, Knives Out was widely acclaimed for its clever writing, outstanding ensemble cast, and stylish direction, and its numerous accolades are a testament to its enduring popularity and critical acclaim.

Technical Information

The movie runs for 2 hours and 10 minutes (130 minutes). The cameras and lenses used in this production are the Arri Alexa 65 with Arri Prime 65 lenses, the Arri Alexa Mini, Panavision Primo, PCZ, PZW with Zeiss Master Prime lenses, and the 

Panavision PSR R-200 with Panavision Primo and PCZ Lenses.

Fun Facts About Knives Out 

Here are some fun facts about the movie:

• Harlan’s expression changes in his portrait once the murder mystery is solved.
• K Callan is actually six years younger than Christopher Plummer who plays her son in the movie.
• Some of the lines were changed to keep the movie rated PG-13.
• The entire cast had an ongoing contest to name the books.
• Rian Johnson named the family member characters after 1970s rock stars. For example, Toni Collette’s character was named Joni for Joni Mitchell.

Can You Visit the Set of Knives Out?

Unfortunately, the set of Knives Out is not currently open to the public for tours or visits. Most of the filming locations, including the Ames Mansion and the Kimmel Estate, are private properties that are not accessible to the public. However, you can still visit some of the locations that served as backdrops for the film, such as the Thayer Conservatory and the Lyman Estate. 

Additionally, many of the towns and cities where the film was shot, such as Boston and Dedham, offer plenty of historical and cultural attractions that are well worth a visit. So while you can’t step onto the set of Knives Out, you can still explore the beautiful locations that helped make the film a masterpiece.

What is Massachusetts Famous For?

Massachusetts is a state located in the northeastern region of the United States. It is known for its rich history, diverse cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Here are some things that Massachusetts is famous for:

1. History: Massachusetts played a major role in the American Revolution and is home to many famous historic sites, such as the Freedom Trail in Boston, Plymouth Rock, and the Salem Witch Trials Memorial.
2. Higher Education: This state is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world, including Harvard University, MIT, Boston University, and Tufts University.
3. Sports: Massachusetts is home to several professional sports teams, including the Boston Red Sox, the New England Patriots, and the Boston Celtics.
4. Seafood: You’ll find plenty of delicious seafood, especially clam chowder and lobster dishes.
5. Art and Culture: Massachusetts has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the Boston Ballet.
6. Natural Beauty: Massachusetts boasts scenic landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Berkshires to the sandy beaches of Cape Cod and the islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard.

Overall, Massachusetts is a state with a rich history, diverse culture, and many attractions that draw visitors from around the world.

Unique Places to Visit in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a state with many unique and interesting places to visit. Here are some suggestions:

• Salem: Salem is famous for the Salem Witch Trials, which took place in the late 17th century. Today, visitors can explore the historic town, visit the Witch Museum, and take part in various witch-themed activities.
• The Berkshires: The Berkshires is a beautiful mountain range located in western Massachusetts. It is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions, including the Tanglewood Music Center and the Norman Rockwell Museum.
• Cape Cod: Cape Cod is a popular vacation destination in Massachusetts. It is known for its picturesque beaches, charming towns, and fresh seafood.
• The Freedom Trail: The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile long trail that takes visitors on a journey through some of Boston’s most historic sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the USS Constitution Museum.
• Martha’s Vineyard: Martha’s Vineyard is an island located off the coast of Cape Cod. It is known for its beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and historic lighthouses.
• Nantucket: Nantucket is another island off the coast of Cape Cod. It is known for its charming architecture, historic whaling industry, and scenic beaches.
• Harvard University: Harvard University is one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the historic campus and learn about the university’s rich history.

Overall, Massachusetts is a state with many unique and interesting places to visit, from historic sites and cultural attractions to natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Fun Things to Do in Massachusetts 

Massachusetts offers plenty of fun activities and attractions for visitors and locals alike. Here are some ideas for fun things to do in Massachusetts:

• Visit the Museum of Fine Arts – The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston is one of the largest art museums in the country and features an extensive collection of artwork from around the world.
• Take a whale watching tour – Massachusetts is home to several companies that offer whale watching tours, where you can see humpback, fin, and minke whales in their natural habitat.
• Explore Salem – Salem is known for its history and is home to several museums and attractions related to the infamous witch trials. Visitors can also enjoy shops, restaurants, and beautiful parks in this quaint coastal town.
• Visit the New England Aquarium: The New England Aquarium in Boston features a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, penguins, and sharks.
• Relax on the beaches of Cape Cod: Cape Cod offers several beautiful beaches, including Nauset Beach and Coast Guard Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the scenic views.

Overall, Massachusetts offers plenty of fun activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, from historic sites and cultural attractions to outdoor activities and beautiful scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Knives Out mansion located?

The Thrombey Mansion was filmed at the Ames Mansion located at the Borderland State Park in Easton, Massachusetts about ten miles west of Boston. 

Can you tour the Knives Out mansion?

The Ames Mansion is open all year around but only a few rooms are accessible to visitors. Even film crews can only use a few of the rooms for film production. 

Where is Benoit Blanc’s apartment?

Benoit Blanc’s apartment is one of the penthouses at 770 Park Avenue in New York City. The penthouse is priced at $9,900,000!

Final Thoughts

Massachusetts is a wonderful state to visit, with plenty of unique and interesting places to explore. From the historic sites of Boston to the charming towns of Cape Cod and the natural beauty of the Berkshires, Massachusetts offers something for everyone. Whether you enjoy art, history, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing on a beach, there are plenty of fun things to do and see in Massachusetts.