Chapter 17 - Return to Sender

Travel Directions:
Navigation in Fort Macleod is made interesting by the fact that most streets have at least two names. Nonetheless, the town is small enough so that you are never lost. The Java Shop / Greyhound Bus Station is located at 2302 2nd Avenue (Haulton Ave.) near the intersection of 23rd Street (Chief Red Crow Boulevard). See:

http://www.fortmacleod.com/images/uploads/visit_map.pdf

Remarks:
“Enjoy life, eat out more often,” was the motto of Fort Macleod’s iconic Java Shop. Although Cassie and Ennis did not find much enjoyment here, the Brokeback prop team did get a break at this place. Very little needed to change to turn it back 25 years. The counter candy rack, tables, and chairs used in this scene were all authentic.

Darryl Solly, locations manager for the film, recalls Ang Lee’s initial reaction to the Java Shop. “When we [first] walked in ... we knew this was going to be our diner. Where we’d encounter potential problems, Ang’s reaction was, “Don’t worry about it, this is going to be it; it’s perfect.” He walked around, loved the whole thing - the cafeteria line, everything is stainless steel, you know - fantastic.” Sadly, economic pressures forced the Java Shop to close in February 2008. See:

http://www.fortmacleod.com/

Quotation:
“Yeah, Carl’s nice. He even talks.”

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DVD capture

Contributed photo