Where was Ratched Filmed

Netflix’s psychological thriller Ratched, created by Ryan Murphy, transports viewers to a visually captivating 1940s setting. As a prequel to One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, the show follows the origins of the infamous Nurse Mildred Ratched. Beyond its gripping storyline and powerful performances, one of the most striking aspects of Ratched is its stunning filming locations. The production team meticulously selected picturesque and historically rich sites across California to bring the eerie yet alluring world of Ratched to life.

In this article, we explore the primary and notable filming locations that played a significant role in shaping the aesthetic of the show.

Primary Filming Locations

Lucia State Hospital

The eerie yet elegant Lucia State Hospital, the central setting of the series, is actually the King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas, California. This historic ranch, named after the razor tycoon King C. Gillette, boasts Spanish Colonial Revival architecture that perfectly matches the show’s retro aesthetic. The location was transformed into the foreboding psychiatric facility where Nurse Ratched begins her tenure. The estate’s vast landscapes and grand buildings contribute to the hospital’s ominous yet visually rich presence, making it a hauntingly beautiful setting for the series.

Sealight Inn

Mildred Ratched’s residence, the picturesque Sealight Inn, is brought to life through the Lucia Lodge in Lucia, California. Nestled along the stunning Big Sur coastline, this charming family-run establishment has been a landmark since the 1930s. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the lodge’s breathtaking views enhance the show’s dramatic coastal setting. The inn serves as a place of solitude for Ratched, contrasting the dark and oppressive environment of Lucia State Hospital with serene oceanic beauty.

Notable Filming Sites

Bixby Creek Bridge

One of Ratched’s most visually iconic moments occurs when Mildred Ratched drives into Lucia, crossing the famous Bixby Creek Bridge. Located along California’s scenic Highway 1 in Big Sur, the bridge has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in film and television. With its dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views, this location adds an atmospheric depth to the show, emphasizing Ratched’s journey into an ominous and unpredictable world.

Toro Place Cafe

A lesser-known but authentic filming spot is Toro Place Cafe, a small roadside diner on the Monterey-Salinas Highway in Salinas, California. This location is used for the gas station scene where Ratched stops on her way to Lucia. The classic diner aesthetic, combined with the nostalgic charm of the area, fits seamlessly into the show’s 1940s setting, further immersing viewers in its period-accurate world.

St. Vincent de Paul Roman Catholic Church

The series opens with a dramatic scene set in the St. Vincent de Paul Roman Catholic Church, located in Los Angeles’ historic West Adams district. This beautiful Spanish-Baroque church provides a striking backdrop, with its intricate architectural details and historical significance. The choice of this location adds grandeur and depth to the opening sequence, immediately drawing viewers into the show’s dark and twisted narrative.

Additional Filming Locations

Beyond these primary and notable sites, several other locations were used to create the immersive world of Ratched:

• Tony’s Saloon in Los Angeles’ Arts District serves as the bar featured in multiple scenes. Its vintage aesthetic and dimly lit interiors enhance the show’s moody atmosphere.
• Cannery Row in Monterey, a historic waterfront street, provides a stunning backdrop for various outdoor scenes, reinforcing the coastal ambiance of the show.
• Adamson House in Malibu doubles as a luxurious hotel in Mexico, seen toward the end of Season 1. This historic house, known for its Spanish Revival architecture, lends authenticity to the exotic setting.

Conclusion

The filming locations of Ratched play a crucial role in shaping the series’ eerie, nostalgic, and visually arresting world. From the haunting beauty of King Gillette Ranch to the breathtaking coastal views of Big Sur, every location was carefully chosen to reflect the show’s psychological tension and period-accurate aesthetic. These real-world places not only ground Ratched in authenticity but also enhance its immersive storytelling, making it a visual masterpiece.