How High is a cult classic stoner comedy that followed Up in Smoke, and fans often wonder where the movie was filmed. The production used a mix of urban and campus locations to create its offbeat California vibe.
The table below outlines key details about the filming locations, including city, specific site, region, and how each contributed to the film’s aesthetic and logistical needs.
| City | Specific Location | Region | Contribution to Film |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | MacArthur Park | Southern California | Iconic skyline and street scenes |
| Los Angeles | University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | Westwood, California | College backdrop and interiors |
| Long Beach | East Village College | Long Beach, California | Exterior campus shots |
| Santa Monica | Pier and boardwalk areas | Westside Los Angeles County | Beach culture and casual sequences |
Los Angeles Urban Landscapes
Much of How High leans on Los Angeles street life to ground its comedy in a recognizable, gritty city setting. The production team selected neighborhoods that offered dense cityscapes, palm trees, and accessible permits for crew and camera equipment.
MacArthur Park provided a dramatic skyline and background activity that framed many stoner banter scenes without requiring expensive set construction. Its mix of public space and local color matched the film’s tone.
College Campus Filming
To capture the feel of overachievers pushed into hazy adventures, the production used active college campuses as primary locations. These spots supplied lecture halls, dorm corridors, and quads that look authentically academic but still read as comedy backdrops.
UCLA supplied recognizable institutional architecture and controlled indoor environments, while Long Beach’s East Village College added variety in exterior shots and parking lot sequences that emphasized the characters’ improvisational energy.
Beach and Coastal Shooting Locations
How High leans into Southern California beach culture, and Santa Monica Pier became a key hub for laid-back conversations and casual interactions. The boardwalk’s bright signage and ocean view amplified the movie’s relaxed, rebellious spirit.
Using publicly accessible beaches and boardwalk areas helped the crew capture spontaneous walk-and-talk scenes that feel unforced and visually engaging without large set builds.
Key Takeaways for Filmmakers
- Use recognizable urban landmarks like MacArthur Park for instant location context.
- Leverage active campuses such as UCLA for controlled indoor and outdoor shooting.
- Incorporate beach and boardwalk areas to add coastal atmosphere and relaxed pacing.
- Choose locations that reflect the film’s tone while meeting schedule and budget needs.
- Balance iconic sites with flexible spaces to accommodate comedy set pieces and dialogue.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which real college campuses were used in How High?
UCLA in Westwood and East Village College in Long Beach were the main campus locations.
Were any scenes shot at MacArthur Park in How High?
Yes, MacArthur Park in Los Angeles provided street and skyline shots that frame several moments in the film.
Did How High film on Santa Monica Pier?
Yes, sections of the pier and surrounding boardwalk were used for casual, coastal scenes.
Why were these locations chosen for How High?
The mix of urban, campus, and beach spots supported the story’s blend of college life and stoner comedy with authentic California visuals.