The Big Screen Apple: How Many Movies Does New York Devour Each Year?
New York City, the city that never sleeps...well, except for maybe that time everyone agreed Nicolas Cage in a bee costume was a good idea. But one thing's for sure, the city is always on the move, a dazzling, chaotic jumble of energy that's practically begging to be filmed. So, how many movies has this concrete jungle become the backdrop for? Buckle up, cinephiles, because we're diving down the rabbit hole of NYC's celluloid history.
The Numbers Game: Taking a Stab at NYC's Filmography
Here's the thing: getting a definitive number on movies filmed in New York is like counting pigeons in Times Square – there's just too darn many! The internet movie database (IMDb) boasts a staggering nearly 395,000 movies set in New York City. But hold on to your popcorn buckets, that number includes movies just "set" in NYC, not necessarily filmed there.
Category Is: NYC Filming Locations
If you're looking for a more grounded number, tracking down movies actually filmed on location in the city is a trickier feat. There's no central database, and permits can be issued for everything from a romantic montage in Central Park to a high-speed car chase weaving through rush hour traffic (not recommended, folks).
However, some intrepid film sleuths have taken a stab at the big question. One website combed through IMDb user-generated lists and landed on a ballpark figure of over 250,000 movies filmed in NYC.
So, the answer? It's a lot. A whole lot. New York City is like a movie star with a permanent place on the red carpet, constantly captivating audiences with its iconic skyline, bustling streets, and endless stories waiting to be told.
Fun Fact: You've Probably Seen More NYC Than You Think!
Ever shed a tear during Breakfast at Tiffany's? Pumped your fist alongside Rocky running up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art (which is actually the Philadelphia Museum of Art...but let's not get bogged down in details)? Chances are, even movies you wouldn't necessarily peg as New York City films have scenes shot there. The city's versatility is off the charts!
How To FAQs:
- How to Get Your Movie Filmed in NYC? Patience, grasshopper! Permits can be a maze, but resources from the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment can help you navigate the process.
- How to See Where Your Favorite Movie Was Filmed in NYC? Many movie location websites let you search by film title, allowing you to retrace the steps (or subway rides) of your favorite characters.
- How to Avoid Getting Cast as an Extra in an NYC Movie? Unless you're specifically looking for your 15 seconds of fame, mastering the art of the "busy New Yorker walk" (think determined head-down stride, slight shoulder bump) should keep you out of most shots.
- How to Decide Between a Hot Dog or a Pretzel During a NYC Movie Filming Break? This is a deeply personal question. However, a perfectly steamed pretzel dusted with coarse salt is a New York classic for a reason.
- How to Channel Your Inner New Yorker While Watching a Movie Filmed in NYC? Critique the acting with gusto (remember, these are just suggestions!), root for the underdog bodega owner, and maybe mutter a sarcastic comment under your breath about unrealistic subway delays (even Hollywood can't get that quite right).
