National Lampoon’s Animal House, filmed in the late 1970s, is a comedy that has left an indelible mark on movie culture.
Set in the fictional Faber College, the movie creates a vibrant depiction of college life in the 1960s through the escapades of two fraternities. It contrasts the favored Omega Theta Pi House with the notorious Delta Tau Chi House. This contrast is central to the comedy and drama that unfold onscreen, illuminating the social dynamics of the period.
The filming of Animal House took place predominantly at the University of Oregon, located in Eugene, as well as various locations around Oregon, including Cottage Grove.
The choice of location added a layer of authenticity to the fictional Faber College, grounding the outrageous humor in a believable setting.
The University of Oregon campus served as a backdrop to many key scenes, thus becoming a character itself in the film’s legacy.
Although specific buildings associated with the film have since been demolished, visiting the campus still offers a tangible connection to the world created by this iconic film. Do you want to know more about where is Animal House filmed? Let’s dive into it.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- Animal House was set in the fictional Faber College, reflecting college life in the 1960s
- The University of Oregon and surrounding areas served as the main filming locations
- Visiting the filming locations offers a connection to the film’s enduring legacy
Historical Context and Film Background
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of the filming locations, it’s essential to understand the cultural backdrop in which “National Lampoon’s Animal House” came to life.
The Rise of National Lampoon and the Comedy Genre
It all started in 1962, which is not just a year but a time capsule of sorts, capturing a period of innocence just before the tumultuous changes of the late ’60s and ’70s took hold.
Into this era of change, National Lampoon made its mark. What began as a countercultural magazine spiraled into a force that would redefine American humor.
“National Lampoon’s Animal House”, directed by the talented John Landis, emerged as the epitome of comedic rebellion in Hollywood.
Unlike the more conservative comedies before it, Animal House was brash, bold, and broke all the rules.
It was more than just a funny movie; it was a loud statement that comedy was evolving. This movie didn’t tiptoe around societal norms—it danced on them.
Landis and Hollywood certainly found their groove with Animal House. The success of this comedy film was a game-changer.
It didn’t just entertain; it influenced the genre, swinging the doors wide open for a whole new kind of funny that resonated with audiences nationwide. They weren’t just laughing; they were witnessing the birth of a new comedic era.
Main Filming Locations
The beloved comedy classic “National Lampoon’s Animal House” was filmed at real-world locations, giving the fictional Faber College a tangible authenticity. The main filming locations centered around the University of Oregon in Eugene, with additional spots providing a charming backdrop for the film’s timeless escapades.
University of Oregon’s Iconic Buildings
University of Oregon played a pivotal role in “Animal House,” standing in for the fictitious Faber College. The historic Johnson Hall served as the Administration Building, pivotal in the film for various college scenes.
Gerlinger Hall, recognized as Emily Dickinson Hall in the movie, is another campus building that added to the cinematic landscape.
The Memorial Quad and surrounding structures, including the Erb Memorial Union and the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, also provided a credible college atmosphere.
- Knight Library
- Hayward Field
- Central Campus
- Tennis Courts
The Relax Inn on Kincaid Street nearby offered accommodations during production.
Cottage Grove and Local Flavor
Cottage Grove, Oregon embraced the filming with open arms, particularly on Main Street where the memorable homecoming parade chaos unfolds.
- Dexter Lake Club – Scene of the road trip excursion
Additional Filming Spots Outside of Eugene
Eugene served as the primary hub for “Animal House” filming, but a few outlying locales like Dexter still made their mark.
Delta House was famously located at 751 East 11th Street, though the original structure has since been demolished. Nevertheless, the location holds a place in cinematic history.
- Omega House/Phi Kappa Psi – 729 East 11th Street
The fabric of “Animal House” was woven through these locales, each contributing to the film’s lasting legacy in unique ways, and making it possible to visit many of the spots where Bluto, Otter, and the rest of the Delta Tau Chi brothers brought their irreverent humor to life.
Cast and Characters
In the raucous comedy classic “Animal House,” an ensemble cast brings to life the rowdy group of fraternity brothers at the fictional Faber College. The film features standout performances that contribute to its lasting appeal.
Lead Roles and Their Portrayal
John Belushi as John “Bluto” Blutarsky jumped into the hearts of audiences with his larger-than-life performance, capturing the essence of a charismatic troublemaker.
Tim Matheson played the smooth-talking Eric “Otter” Stratton, while Tom Hulce brought a naive charm to the role of Larry “Pinto” Kroger. The dynamic between these leading men set the tone for the film’s irreverent humor.
- John Belushi as John “Bluto” Blutarsky
- Tim Matheson as Eric “Otter” Stratton
- Tom Hulce as Larry “Pinto” Kroger
Supporting Cast and Memorable Cameos
The film is peppered with memorable characters, such as the lovable “Flounder,” played by Stephen Furst, and the military-obsessed Doug Neidermeyer, brought to life by Mark Metcalf.
Peter Riegert shined as Donald “Boon” Schoenstein, whose relationship dynamics with Karen Allen as Katy offered a more grounded subplot amidst the chaos.
Professor Dave Jennings, played by Donald Sutherland, and Dean Vernon Wormer, depicted by John Vernon, provided authoritative foils to the Delta’s antics.
- Stephen Furst as Kent “Flounder” Dorfman
- Mark Metcalf as Douglas C. Neidermeyer
- Peter Riegert as Donald “Boon” Schoenstein
- Karen Allen as Katy
- Donald Sutherland as Professor Dave Jennings
- John Vernon as Dean Vernon Wormer
The ensemble cast, with early appearances by talents like Kevin Bacon as freshman pledge Chip Diller and Verna Bloom as Marion Wormer, wife of the dean, created a riotous atmosphere and gave rise to a litany of iconic scenes. Cesare Danova also had a notable appearance as Mayor Carmine DePasto.
With a mixture of seasoned actors and new faces, “Animal House” set a standard for ensemble comedies.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
“National Lampoon’s Animal House” didn’t just give audiences a good laugh; it left a lasting imprint on American culture, particularly within the realm of college life and fraternity antics.
Influence on College Culture
The film’s portrayal of the raucous Delta Tau Chi House sent ripples through college campuses across the nation.
Suddenly, everyone wanted to throw a Toga Party, a concept that shot to popularity after John “Bluto” Blutarsky, played by John Belushi, donned a bedsheet.
The movie’s depiction of fraternity life, although exaggerated, influenced the public’s perception of a collegiate brotherhood.
Fraternities like Sigma Nu and Phi Kappa Psi saw the film’s rebellious spirit mirrored in their own houses, setting a new precedent for daring college fun.
Film’s Enduring Popularity
Even decades later, “Animal House” holds onto a beloved spot in the hearts of its fans.
Alumni and new students alike appreciate the film’s take on the wilder side of their youth.
Iconic elements like the makeshift Deathmobile and the authoritative antagonist, Dean Vernon Wormer, have become ingrained in pop culture.
Although the buildings like the Delta and Omega Theta Pi Houses are long gone, their stories live on, continuing to entertain and remind viewers of the timeless struggle between rowdy underdogs and the establishment they challenge.
Visiting the Filming Locations Today
The allure of stepping into the cinematic world of “Animal House” remains strong with several key filming sites accessible for fans wishing to immerse themselves in the movie’s legacy. Fans that know where is Animal House filmed, also want to visit the iconic locations.
Tourist Attractions and Memorabilia
University of Oregon serves as a significant landmark for movie devotees.
Amidst the educational buzz of the campus, Memorial Quadrangle particularly offers a nod to the film’s history.
The Quadrangle’s Gerlinger Hall, once dramatized as Emily Dickinson Hall, marks a spot where the Delta boys embarked on their infamous road trip.
Visitors can resonate with the sense of revolt and camaraderie that the location embodies.
Carson Hall, another structure within the University, played a background role in “Animal House,” adding to the campus’ claim to cinema fame.
It stands in contrast to the backdrop of the Quadrangle, showcasing the diverse architectural character used in the film.
The actual Patterson House, portrayed as the Delta House, unfortunately, no longer exists. But the place it once stood is now part of Northwest Christian University, inviting visitors to imagine the raucous scenes that took place on the now serene grounds.
For those seeking an off-campus adventure, a short drive to Dexter Lake Club is a must.
Although changes have occurred since the film’s release, this location continues to conjure memories from the comedic narrative—where the characters’ partying ways were humorously out of place.
The journey is rounded off with passing by Lane County, where the famous homecoming parade scenes were filmed. This creates an almost palpable echo of the chaos and humor that ensued among the characters.
For aficionados enamored with props and memorabilia, delving into local shops might yield posters or souvenirs tied to the film.
They often capture iconic moments or quotes that still resonate with audience members years after the film’s debut.
Behind the Scenes
Exploring the quirky and challenging production nuances offers a fascinating glimpse into the making of “National Lampoon’s Animal House.”
Production Anecdotes and Challenges
“National Lampoon’s Animal House” came to life through the collaborative genius of Harold Ramis, Douglas Kenney, and Chris Miller, who penned the script. The production team’s creativity and resilience turned the screenplay into an iconic film.
They chose the University of Oregon in Eugene as their primary filming location after various other universities declined, worried about the film’s rambunctious content. This decision added authenticity to the college-centric plot, filled with memorable moments like the infamous toga parties.
Shooting in Oregon presented unique challenges. The team navigated these hurdles with a blend of humor and ingenuity, embodying the same spirit the movie celebrated.
Director John Landis, known for his keen eye and sense of humor, worked closely with producer Ivan Reitman to keep the shoot on track and within the modest budget set by Universal Pictures.
Beyond the laughter on-screen, there was a sense of camaraderie among the cast and crew. Hollywood and its bustling environment felt miles away, as Eugene provided a serene backdrop, allowing the actors to bond like real college alumni participating in a grand reunion.
These collective experiences during filming helped the cast deliver genuine performances that resonated with audiences and cemented the film’s place as a cultural landmark.
