The Abyss (1989) – Filming Locations
Adventure / Thriller / Science Fiction · Directed by James Cameron · Starring Ed Harris, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio
A civilian oil rig crew is recruited to conduct a search and rescue effort when a nuclear submarine mysteriously sinks. One diver soon finds himself on a spectacular odyssey 25,000 feet below the ocean's surface where he confronts a mysterious force that has the power to change the world or destroy it.
Where was The Abyss filmed?
- Gaffney, South Carolina, United States, Gaffney – Opening sequence showing the USS Montana nuclear submarine. The iconic peach-shaped water tower was digitally enlarged and used as a visual landmark in the opening underwater sequences
- Panama Canal Zone, Panama, Panama Canal – Submarine sinking and initial disaster sequences. Actual underwater location used for establishing shots and reference material for the deep-sea setting of the Benthic Petroleum Platform
- Cherokee, North Carolina, United States, Cherokee – Above-water surface sequences and establishing shots. Regional location used for helicopter landing pad and command center surface operations sequences
- South Carolina, United States, South Carolina – Water tank and practical underwater filming. Local waterway used for supplementary underwater filming and practical effects testing during production