The Boys from Brazil – Filming Locations in Vienna

The Boys from Brazil, directed by Academy Award winner Franklin J. Schaffner (Patton, Planet of the Apes), remains one of the most memorable science-fiction thrillers of the 1970s. The film is particularly famous for bringing together Gregory Peck and Laurence Olivier for the first time. In a bold casting decision, Peck was chosen to play the villain—a striking departure from the morally upright heroes that had defined much of his career.

Learn more

You see the portal of Graben 19. In this house there is a branch of Julius Meindl, a traditional renowned viennese grocery store.

Graben 19/FOL

Why was The Boys from Brazil filmed in Vienna?

The character of Ezra Lieberman, portrayed by Laurence Olivier, was inspired by the legendary Nazi hunter Simon Wiesenthal, who dedicated his life to bringing war criminals to justice. Vienna therefore provided an authentic and meaningful setting for Lieberman’s story.

Although The Boys from Brazil was filmed primarily across Europe, Vienna played an especially important role. The production used the Wien-Film Studios for several interior scenes, including the dramatic finale featuring the Doberman attack. The dogs were flown in from the United States specifically for the production, as animal welfare regulations in Germany and the United Kingdom did not permit the filmmakers to work with them in the way the script required.

Which filming locations can you visit?

Graben

At the point where Vienna’s elegant Graben boulevard meets Kohlmarkt, the filmmakers shot a memorable scene featuring Denholm Elliott and Laurence Olivier. Today, the location offers a fascinating glimpse into what the heart of Vienna looked like in the late 1970s.

Vienna Westbahnhof

Vienna’s Westbahnhof railway station has long been a favorite location for international film productions, appearing in films such as Dallas, Before Sunrise, and The Boys from Brazil. Here, Laurence Olivier’s character meets his on-screen partner, played by Lilli Palmer.

This is the main hall of Vienna's Westbahnhof. It's dominated by a large glass facade under a high ceiling, some shops. Mid-century-design.

Westbahnhof/FOL

Behind-the-Scenes

Steven Guttenberg was only 18 years old when he appeared in The Boys from Brazil. Looking back on the production, he has spoken warmly about working alongside acting legends Gregory Peck, Laurence Olivier, and James Mason—an unforgettable experience early in his career.

Sieh dir diesen Beitrag auf Instagram an

Ein Beitrag geteilt von Steve Guttenberg (@steveguttenberg)

The Rustensteg is a pedestrian bridge that crosses the Westbahn railway line. This charming green-painted steel structure offers a unique perspective of the surrounding area and is a popular location for photographers and film crews alike.

Rustensteg/FOL

Vienna Today

The historic Wien-Film Studios have long since disappeared, replaced by modern residential developments. Fortunately, the city’s exterior filming locations remain largely unchanged and can still be visited today, allowing film enthusiasts to experience many of the places seen in this classic thriller.

Audio Tour

Experience the Filming Locations Yourself

Would you like to discover the original filming locations in person?

The FILMED ON LOCATION audio tour takes you to the most important The Boys from Brazil filming locations while sharing fascinating behind-the-scenes stories exactly where they happened. Find all the details here.

Go to Audio Tour