“Just Friends” is a 2005 Christmas romantic comedy movie that follows the transformation of Chris Brander – from an overweight high school student to an attractive and successful womanizer. In high school, he has a crush on his best friend, Jamie Palamino, and tries to tell her how he feels, only to be rejected and leave town. Fast forward ten years, Chris is a successful record executive and is so attractive that all the ladies love him. But even after all these years and success, he still has feelings for Jamie.
When Chris returns to his hometown for the holidays, he tries to win back the heart of his childhood sweetheart. The comedic narrative is made all the more fun by the hilarious performances of the talented ensemble of Ryan Reynolds, Amy Smart, Anna Faris, and Chris Klein. While the unique story captivates the audience, the snowy locations spark curiosity about the actual filming locations.
Where Was Just Friends Movie Filmed?
“Just Friends” was filmed in Saskatchewan and California, specifically in Moose Jaw, Regina, and Los Angeles. Principal photography for the rom-com reportedly took place in early 2005. Interestingly, it took the makeup department about four hours to put on Ryan Reynolds’ 12-pound face in the scenes involving high school Chris.
The crew shot most of the film in winter in Saskatchewan, even though temperatures dropped as low as -34 degrees Celsius.
Saskatchewan
Several pivotal sequences for “Just Friends” occurred primarily in Saskatchewan, a prairie and boreal province in western Canada. The property at 3270 Albert Street and 22nd Avenue in Regina served as Jamie’s house in the film. Meanwhile, the home at 330 Hall Street West and Henleaze Avenue and 54 Oxford Street West, west of Clifton Ave, both in Moose Jaw, doubled as Chris and Clark’s homes.
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The hilarious hockey game scenes where Chris is embarrassed by the kids were reportedly filmed at the River Park Camp Grounds at 300 River Drive in Moose Jaw. Additionally, the fight scene between Chris and Dusty was filmed in and around St. Joseph Parish at 1064 3 Avenue Northwest in the city. In addition, Main Street North and Manitoba Street West in Moose Jaw served as prominent manufacturing sites.
California
Additional parts of “Just Friends” in Los Angeles were recorded on location in the Southern California city. The building at 1800 North Vine Street served as Samantha James’ recording studio, where Chris works, and the property at 5505 Tuxedo Terrace in Los Angeles represented his lavish home in Los Angeles.
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In addition to ‘Just Friends, many movies and TV series have featured the City of Angels over the years, such as ‘Eternals’, ‘Whiplash’, ‘Hacks’ and ‘SEAL Team’.