Sci-Fi movie filming locations in southern Arizona
– including movie title, release date, stars along with description of location and present day updates

1. “The Andromeda Strain” (1971)
   – This science fiction thriller film was directed by Robert Wise and based on the novel by Michael Crichton. It was partly filmed in the town of Winslow, Arizona, located in the northeastern part of the state. The Winslow location was used as a stand-in for the fictional town of Piedmont, Arizona, where a deadly virus is discovered.
   – Today, visitors can explore Winslow’s historic district and see landmarks like the Standin’ on the Corner Park, which commemorates the town’s mention in the Eagles’ song “Take it Easy.”
2. “Starman” (1984)
   – This romantic science fiction film directed by John Carpenter stars Jeff Bridges as an alien who takes on the appearance of a young widow’s deceased husband. The film was shot in various locations throughout Arizona, including the picturesque town of Carefree, located in the Sonoran Desert north of Phoenix.
   – Today, visitors can hike the nearby trails of Cave Creek Regional Park or explore the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix.
3. “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure” (1989)
   – This comedy science fiction film stars Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter as two high school students who travel through time in a phone booth to complete a history assignment. The film was shot in various locations in Arizona, including the historic mining town of Bisbee, located in the southeastern part of the state.
   – Visitors can explore Bisbee’s colorful architecture and take a tour of the Copper Queen Mine, one of the town’s historic landmarks.
4. “Star Trek: First Contact” (1996)
   – This science fiction film is the eighth installment in the “Star Trek” franchise and features the crew of the USS Enterprise traveling back in time to prevent the Borg from altering human history. The film was partly shot at the Pima Air & Space Museum in Tucson, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of aircraft.
   – Today, visitors can explore the museum’s indoor and outdoor exhibits, which include everything from military jets to commercial airliners.
5. “Transformers” (2007)
   – This science fiction action film is based on the popular toy and cartoon franchise of the same name. The film features giant robots that can transform into vehicles, and was partly shot in various locations throughout Arizona, including the city of Mesa.
   – Today, visitors can explore the nearby Superstition Mountains, which are part of the Tonto National Forest, or visit the Mesa Arts Center, a hub for visual and performing arts.
6. “Cowboys & Aliens” (2011)
   – This science fiction Western film stars Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford and follows a group of cowboys and Native Americans who band together to fight an alien invasion.
   The film was partly shot in various locations throughout Arizona, including the city of Gallup, located just across the border in New Mexico.
   – Today, visitors can explore Gallup’s historic downtown district or take a scenic drive through nearby Red Rock State Park.