“Couples Retreat” is a 2009 comedy film that revolves around four couples who embark on a tropical island resort vacation. The main couple, Dave and Ronnie, along with their friends, Jason and Cynthia, Joey and Lucy, and Shane with his young girlfriend, Trudy, find themselves unwittingly enrolled in couples therapy sessions. The film, famous for its humor and picturesque locations, was primarily shot at the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort in French Polynesia.
This luxury resort, nestled among the South Pacific’s scattered islands, provided the perfect backdrop for the movie’s dual settings of “Eden East” and “Eden West.” While the film portrays the resort as an idyllic paradise with clear blue waters and lush tropical vegetation, it’s important to note that some elements, like the waterfall scene, were shot elsewhere.
Couples Retreat film locations
Additional filming locations included Leeward Islands in French Polynesia, known for their serene beauty and low population, making them ideal for filming. Certain scenes were also shot in Downey Studios in California, which, despite its later demolition, played a crucial role in the film’s production. Other notable locations include Buffalo Grove in Illinois, where the characters’ pre-resort life was depicted, and O’Hare International Airport in Chicago for airport scenes. Universal Studios in California was also used for various scenes.
“Couples Retreat,” despite mixed critical reception, was a commercial success and is appreciated for its entertaining storyline, comedic performances, and stunning locales. The film features a star-studded cast including Vince Vaughn, Jason Bateman, Jon Favreau, and Kristen Bell. While it might not rank among cinema’s greatest, it offers relatable comedy and showcases beautiful filming locations that add to its charm.
