Tustin’s hangar was the star of major Hollywood projects, playing a pivotal role in shaping iconic scenes for various blockbuster movies and TV shows. This World War II-era hangar, with its vast expanse and towering arches, became a cinematic treasure trove for filmmakers seeking grand backdrops.
A Cinematic Marvel: Star Trek’s Futuristic Hangar
Film location manager Steve Woroniecki reminisces about the awe-inspiring experience of exploring the north blimp hangar in Tustin. For the 2009 "Star Trek" reboot, this colossal structure served as the futuristic hangar in the year 2258, housing Star Fleet space shuttles. The hangar’s ominous atmosphere perfectly complemented the film’s narrative, making it an ideal choice for pivotal scenes, including the USS Enterprise’s maiden voyage and the symbolic meeting of Spock’s younger and older selves.
From WWII Dramas to Sci-Fi Epics
Tustin’s hangar was the star of major Hollywood projects, featuring in several WWII period dramas. In 2001, it became a training ground for Air Force Gen. Jimmy Doolittle in "Pearl Harbor," where actors like Alec Baldwin, Ben Affleck, and Josh Hartnett prepared for their B-25 bomber mission into Japan. Additionally, the hangar appeared in the 1975 film "The Hindenburg" and the 1945 movie "The Man’s Navy," making it a historically significant film location.
Versatility Beyond Boundaries
Beyond war dramas, the hangar showcased its versatility by transforming into diverse settings. In the 1998 HBO miniseries "From the Earth to the Moon," the hangar’s interior became the moon’s surface, highlighting its adaptability for space-themed productions. Moreover, "The X-Files" utilized the nearby south hangar in its Season 6, Episode 12, portraying it as the meeting place between government leaders and extraterrestrial rebels.
Time Travel and Comedy: Austin Powers’ Memorable Scene
In 1999, the hangar’s unique charm found its way into comedy with "Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me." Here, the base operated as a time machine, cleverly disguised as a Volkswagen Beetle, transporting Mike Myers’ character back to 1969. The film’s quirky time-travel scene added a touch of humor to the hangar’s diverse repertoire.
In conclusion, Tustin’s hangar was the star of major Hollywood projects, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry. Its grandeur and adaptability turned ordinary scenes into cinematic masterpieces, showcasing the hangar’s enduring legacy in the world of entertainment.
Behind the Scenes: Iconic Film Moments in Tustin’s Hangar
Fire Destroys Blimp Hanger Where ‘Pearl Harbor … – Deadline
In a devastating incident, the monumental wooden structures, recognized as two of the largest ever built, as stated by the Tustin Hangars website, have fallen victim to a fierce blaze. These historic hangars, which played significant roles in television and film productions such as JAG, The X Files, Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, Pearl Harbor, and Star Trek, succumbed to the fire’s destructive force. The loss marks a poignant moment in the world of entertainment, as these iconic locations, once vibrant with cinematic history, now lie in ruin.
What is the Tustin Hangars?
Discover the legacy of the Tustin Hangars through the award-winning 25-minute video documentary, The Tustin Hangars: Titans of History. This documentary delves into the intriguing narrative of the former Marine Corps Air Station Tustin’s acquisition by the U.S. Navy. It explores the meticulous design, construction, and the vibrant life within the Tustin hangars. Immerse yourself in the rich history of these monumental structures, learning about their transformation from military bases to iconic landmarks in the annals of aviation and cinema.
What is a Tustin Blimp Hangar?
The Tustin Blimp Hangars, captured in the lens of Russ Allison Loar, are colossal structures with a historical significance rooted in the aftermath of the Pearl Harbor attack. Constructed to house manned airships, these mammoth hangars served a vital role in patrolling the California coast, diligently searching for enemy submarines. Standing as a testament to wartime ingenuity, these hangars symbolize the resilience and vigilance of the nation during a critical period in history.
What Happened to Tustin Air Station?
The Marine Corps Air Station Tustin, affectionately known as “Hangar City,” ceased operations in 1999, marking the end of an era. Despite its closure, the iconic hangars, remnants of airship warfare history, still proudly stand today. However, their future remains uncertain, casting a veil of intrigue over these historic relics. For those curious about this piece of military heritage, the Tustin Air Station can be found by taking the Jamboree exit off Interstate 5 in Tustin, California.
What Movies & TV Shows Have Hangars Been Filmed In?
These iconic hangars have graced the screen in popular television shows and movies, leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood history. Notable productions like JAG, The X Files, Austin Powers, Pearl Harbor, and Star Trek utilized these historic structures as captivating backdrops. In addition to cinematic ventures, the hangars also starred in numerous major car commercials, adding to their versatile on-screen presence. Currently, Hangar 2 (south hangar), located near Warner Avenue and Tustin Ranch Road, is undergoing evaluation to determine its future use, keeping the intrigue alive for what lies ahead.
What Are the Tustin Hangars Used For?
“The Tustin Hangars: Titans of History” provides an in-depth account of the two blimp hangars located at the former U.S. Navy and Marine Corps air station in Tustin, California. Constructed during the early stages of World War II, these hangars were specifically designed to house manned blimps, known in Navy terms as non-rigid lighter-than-air (LTA) airships. This comprehensive history sheds light on the hangars’ essential role in military aviation, showcasing their purpose as vital facilities dedicated to supporting aerial operations during the wartime era.
