What Mall Was Kindergarten Cop Filmed In: A Journey Through Cinematic Spaces and Unrelated Musings

The 1990 comedy film Kindergarten Cop, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, remains a beloved classic for its unique blend of action and humor. One of the most iconic locations in the movie is the mall where several key scenes were filmed. The mall in question is the Washington Square Mall in Tigard, Oregon. This shopping center, with its retro charm, served as the backdrop for some of the film’s most memorable moments, including the chaotic chase scene involving Schwarzenegger’s character, Detective John Kimble, and a group of kindergarteners. But beyond its role in the film, the Washington Square Mall has a fascinating history of its own, making it a perfect subject for exploration.

The Washington Square Mall: A Cinematic Landmark

Washington Square Mall, located just outside Portland, Oregon, opened its doors in 1973. By the time Kindergarten Cop was filmed in the late 1980s, it had already established itself as a bustling hub for shoppers and a popular location for film productions. The mall’s spacious layout and vibrant atmosphere made it an ideal setting for the film’s comedic and action-packed sequences. The scene where Detective Kimble loses control of his class in the mall’s food court is particularly memorable, showcasing the mall’s lively environment.

Interestingly, the mall has undergone several renovations since the film’s release, modernizing its appearance while retaining some of its original charm. For fans of the movie, visiting the mall today offers a nostalgic trip back to the late ’80s, even as it embraces contemporary retail trends.

The Role of Malls in Film and Culture

Malls have long been a staple of American culture, serving as more than just shopping destinations. They are social spaces, cultural landmarks, and, as Kindergarten Cop demonstrates, versatile filming locations. The Washington Square Mall is just one example of how malls have been immortalized on screen. From Fast Times at Ridgemont High to Clueless, malls have provided filmmakers with dynamic settings that reflect the zeitgeist of their respective eras.

In Kindergarten Cop, the mall serves as a microcosm of suburban life, a place where the ordinary and the extraordinary collide. Detective Kimble’s struggle to maintain order in the mall mirrors his broader challenge of balancing his tough-cop persona with the demands of undercover work as a kindergarten teacher. The mall, with its mix of chaos and routine, becomes a metaphor for the film’s central theme: the unexpected challenges of life.

Unrelated Musings: The Curious Connection Between Malls and Existentialism

While the Washington Square Mall’s role in Kindergarten Cop is well-documented, it also invites a deeper, albeit unrelated, reflection on the nature of malls as existential spaces. Malls, with their endless corridors and repetitive storefronts, can evoke a sense of existential ennui. They are places where time seems to stand still, yet they are also sites of constant activity and change. This duality makes them fascinating subjects for philosophical inquiry.

Consider, for instance, the concept of the “flâneur,” a term coined by French poet Charles Baudelaire to describe an urban wanderer who observes the world without purpose. In the context of a mall, the flâneur becomes a figure who drifts through the space, absorbing its sights and sounds without engaging in the consumerist rituals that define it. This detachment allows for a unique perspective on the mall as both a physical and psychological space.

The Legacy of Kindergarten Cop and Its Filming Locations

Kindergarten Cop may be best remembered for its humor and Schwarzenegger’s unexpected turn as a kindergarten teacher, but its filming locations, including the Washington Square Mall, play a crucial role in its enduring appeal. The mall, with its vibrant energy and nostalgic charm, adds depth to the film’s narrative and serves as a reminder of the cultural significance of such spaces.

As malls continue to evolve in the face of changing consumer habits, their role in film and culture remains a topic of interest. The Washington Square Mall, in particular, stands as a testament to the enduring connection between cinema and the spaces we inhabit.

Related Questions

1. What other movies have been filmed at Washington Square Mall?
   Aside from Kindergarten Cop, Washington Square Mall has been featured in other films and TV shows, though it is most famously associated with Schwarzenegger’s comedy.

2. How has Washington Square Mall changed since Kindergarten Cop was filmed?
   The mall has undergone several renovations to modernize its facilities, but it retains much of its original layout and charm, making it a nostalgic destination for fans of the film.

3. Why are malls popular filming locations?
   Malls offer versatile settings that can accommodate a wide range of scenes, from action sequences to intimate moments. Their vibrant atmospheres and cultural significance also make them appealing to filmmakers.

4. What is the significance of the mall scene in Kindergarten Cop?
   The mall scene highlights Detective Kimble’s struggle to adapt to his undercover role, blending humor and action while showcasing the mall as a dynamic and chaotic space.

5. Are there any other iconic filming locations in Oregon?
   Oregon is home to numerous iconic filming locations, including the Timberline Lodge, which served as the exterior of the Overlook Hotel in The Shining, and the Columbia River Gorge, featured in Twilight.