So You Think You Know Boston? Let's Talk Movie Magic!
Ah, Boston. The city of baked beans, brutal winters, and...Hollywood? That's right, Beantown has been a backdrop for a surprising number of flicks. From gritty crime thrillers to heartwarming rom-coms, there's a Boston movie out there for everyone (except maybe folks who dislike the sound of a wicked strong accent, but hey, you can't win 'em all).
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What Famous Movies Were Filmed In Boston |
Action! Action! Action!
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Boston isn't all museums and chowder, folks. It's also got a bit of a wild side, as showcased in movies like:
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- The Departed: Leonardo DiCaprio and Matt Damon trade bullets (and undercover cop identities) with hilarious (and sometimes deadly) results. You'll never see Southie the same way again.
- Gone Baby Gone: Ben Affleck directs and stars in this tense thriller about a missing child in Dorchester. Be prepared to hold your breath.
- The Town: Speaking of Dorchester, Ben Affleck is back, this time robbing banks with a crew of colorful (and slightly unhinged) childhood friends. Just don't try this at home, mkay?
Love is a Many Splintered Thing (Especially in Boston)
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Boston's a city of strong emotions, and that translates perfectly to the silver screen. Get ready to fall in love (or clutch your pearls) with these flicks:
- Good Will Hunting: This Robin Williams and Matt Damon classic features a janitor with a hidden genius for mathematics who also happens to have a whole lotta emotional baggage. Cue heartwarming therapy sessions and tearful walks through Harvard Yard.
- Fever Pitch: Jimmy Fallon and Drew Barrymore find love amidst the roar of the Fenway Park crowd. Just be prepared for some serious Red Sox fanaticism (and maybe some wardrobe malfunctions involving baseball jerseys).
- The Bostonians: This one's a historical drama with a love triangle set against the backdrop of the abolitionist movement. Not exactly lighthearted, but definitely a Boston staple.
Honorable Mentions (Because Boston's Full of Surprises!)
- 21 Jump Street: Because who knew Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum could clean up the streets (and by "streets" we mean high school) with such comedic flair?
- The Social Network: Mark Zuckerberg and the birth of Facebook – not exactly heartwarming, but a fascinating look at a tech giant with Boston roots.
How to Become a Boston Movie Buff: FAQ
- How can I spot a movie filmed in Boston? Keep an eye out for iconic landmarks like the Faneuil Hall marketplace, the Massachusetts State House dome, or that swan boat pond in Boston Garden.
- How can I plan a Boston movie location tour? There are actually companies that offer tours specifically designed to take you to filming locations from your favorite movies! Talk about getting your cinematic fix.
- How can I convince Hollywood to film a movie in my neighborhood? This one's a tough one, but offering the director a lifetime supply of Dunkin' Donuts might be a good start.
- How can I tell the difference between a Boston and a New York accent? Well, that's a whole other can of worms, buddy. Maybe next time!
- How can I make my own Boston movie? Hey, if Matt Damon can do it, so can you! Just grab a camera, some friends, and a whole lotta Dunkin' (see above).