Are you curious about the stunning Ash filming locations that brought this sci-fi horror movie to life? At NetFilming, we’re diving into where this thrilling film was shot, giving you a peek behind the scenes. Ash (2025), directed by Steven Ellison, aka Flying Lotus, is a chilling tale of survival on a desolate alien planet. Produced by XYZ Films and GFC Films, the movie premiered at SXSW and blends psychedelic visuals with monster horror. In this article, we’ll explore the Ash filming locations, the movie’s plot, cast, and more. Let’s uncover the places that made this cosmic nightmare feel so real!
What is Ash About?
Ash is a 2025 American film that combines science fiction and horror, directed by Steven Ellison, known professionally as Flying Lotus. The film stars Eiza González as Riya, an astronaut who wakes up on a desolate planet called Ash (designated K.O.I.-442) with no memory and finds her crew brutally killed. Aaron Paul plays Brion, a man who arrives to rescue her, leading to a tense investigation filled with psychological and physical terror. The cast also includes Iko Uwais, Beulah Koale, Kate Elliott, and Flying Lotus himself in a supporting role. Written by Jonni Remmler, the film features a vivid, psychedelic aesthetic; a pulsating score by Flying Lotus; and influences from sci-fi horror classics like Alien, The Thing, and the video game Dead Space. It premiered at SXSW on March 11, 2025, and was released theatrically on March 21, 2025, by RLJE Films and Shudder. Critics praised its atmosphere, visuals, and performances but noted its derivative plot and occasionally subpar CGI.
Where was ‘Ash’ filmed?
The Ash filming locations played a huge role in making the movie’s alien planet feel real. While the story is set in outer space, the production team chose one country to bring this vision to life: New Zealand. Here’s a closer look at how they used this stunning location.
New Zealand’s Rural Landscapes
New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes were the heart of Ash’s filming locations. The country’s rural areas, free from light pollution, provided starry night skies that looked like outer space. “The night sky in New Zealand was perfect for capturing the cosmic feel of the planet Ash,” said director Flying Lotus in a Variety interview. These wide-open spaces doubled as the craggy, volcanic surface of the alien world, with jagged rocks and eerie shadows. New Zealand’s biodiversity also added a unique, almost alien texture to the scenes.
Fun fact: New Zealand is one of the world’s most popular destinations for sci-fi and fantasy film locations. From epic projects such as The Lord of the Rings, Avatar, and The Hobbit, all of which were filmed here and featured the same awe-inspiring landforms and world-class studios.
Studio Sets in Wellington
Much of Ash was shot in Wellington, New Zealand’s film hub, using high-tech studios. The production team built detailed sets for the space station and Riya’s eerie surroundings. “Working in Wellington with crews from Avatar and Evil Dead Rise was a game-changer,” Flying Lotus shared with Variety. These studios, including Weta Workshop, helped craft the film’s neon-lit, biomechanical aesthetic. Wellington’s facilities are famous for films like King Kong and District 9, making it a perfect fit for Ash’s ambitious visuals.
Trivia: Did you know New Zealand’s volcanic regions, like While not confirmed for Ash, such locations are often tapped for their otherworldly look.
When Did the Filming of ‘Ash’ Take Place?
Filming for the movie Ash took place in 2024, although the specific dates have not been made public. The production wrapped in time for its SXSW premiere in March 2025. New Zealand’s flexible weather and advanced studios made it a smooth shoot.
Ash Cast Details
- Eiza González as Riya, the astronaut fighting for survival.
- Aaron Paul as Brion, the mysterious rescuer.
- Iko Uwais in a supporting role, adding action flair.
- Beulah Koale as a crew member caught in the chaos.
- Kate Elliott in a key role, enhancing the suspense.
- Flying Lotus (Steven Ellison), making a cameo appearance.
Ash Behind The Scenes
The filming in New Zealand brought together a crew experienced in working on blockbusters such as The Lord of the Rings and Avatar. For the creepy space station and the rocky, glowing terrain of the planet, they constructed elaborate sets.
Director Flying Lotus leaned into practical effects for the gory monster scenes, mixing them with CGI for a surreal vibe. “We wanted the horror to feel raw and real, like you’re right there with Riya,” he told Variety. The neon lighting and psychedelic colors were a nod to his music roots, making every frame pop. Eiza González revealed on social media how the passion of the New Zealand crew made for fun, long days on the job. With a limited budget, yet bursting with creativity, the team made Ash into a visual feast that people can’t stop talking about in the horror community.
Ash Official Trailer
Are you prepared to explore Ash’s terrifying realm? The official trailer teases Riya’s terrifying journey with stunning visuals and heart-pounding moments. Watch it here:
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