Duel (1971) – Filming Locations
Action / Thriller / TV Movie · Directed by Steven Spielberg · Starring Dennis Weaver, Jacqueline Scott
Traveling businessman David Mann angers the driver of a rusty tanker while crossing the California desert. A simple trip turns deadly, as Mann struggles to stay on the road while the tanker plays cat and mouse with his life.
Where was Duel filmed?
- Mojave Desert, California, United States, Mojave – Primary setting for the cat-and-mouse chase between David Mann and the truck driver. The expansive desert landscape and long straight highways provided the ideal isolated setting for Spielberg's thrilling pursuit narrative
- Bakersfield, California, United States, Bakersfield – Mann stops at a gas station and diner to escape and attempt to confront the truck driver. Bakersfield served as a key mid-journey stop where Mann tries to identify and confront his pursuer
- Grapevine, California, United States, Grapevine – Climactic final confrontation where Mann's vehicle goes off a cliff. The steep mountain pass and cliff edge provided the dramatic location for the film's intense final sequence
- California, United States, California – Extensive driving sequences throughout Mann's cross-state journey. Multiple California highways were used as the primary roadway settings for the relentless chase sequences