10 Movies Shot in Times Square, NY
Table of Contents
New York City and Movies
New York City is a popular location for movie shoots due to several factors. Its iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Times Square make great backdrops for movies and provide a sense of place and context. The city’s large and diverse neighborhoods offer a wide variety of filming locations and settings for movies. New York City has a large and experienced pool of film industry professionals, including directors, cinematographers, production designers, and crew members. This talent pool can help ensure that movies shot in New York City are of high quality and that the production process runs smoothly.
Why Shoot A Movie in Times Square?
Times Square is a great movie shot location due to its vibrant and iconic atmosphere. With its bright lights, towering billboards, and bustling crowds, Times Square offers a visually stunning and instantly recognizable backdrop for movies. The square’s unique mix of old and new architecture also provides filmmakers with a wide range of visual options, from classic theaters to modern skyscrapers. Additionally, Times Square is a hub of activity, with street performers, vendors, and tourists adding to the lively energy of the location. This bustling atmosphere can add an extra layer of authenticity and excitement to movies shot in Times Square.
History of Filmmaking in NYC
Filmmaking in New York City has a long and storied history, dating back to the early days of the motion picture industry in the early 20th century. From the silent films of the 1910s to the big-budget blockbusters of today, New York City has been a key location for many landmark films and television shows. In the early days of filmmaking, New York City was home to many of the major studios of the time, including Paramount, Warner Bros., and Fox. These studios produced many classic films, including “Gone with the Wind,” “The Wizard of Oz,” and “The Sound of Music.” However, as the industry grew, many of these studios began to move their operations to Hollywood, where they could take advantage of the warm weather and cheaper production costs.
Despite this, New York City remained an important location for filmmaking, thanks to its unique mix of landmarks, neighborhoods, and talent. In the 1950s and 60s, the city became a hub of independent filmmaking, with filmmakers like John Cassavetes, Martin Scorsese, and Woody Allen creating a new wave of gritty, urban films that captured the city’s unique character. In the 1970s and 80s, New York City experienced a boom in film production, thanks to the establishment of the New York State Film Office and the construction of several new sound stages and production facilities. During this time, the city became a key location for many landmark films, including “The Godfather,” “Taxi Driver,” and “The French Connection.”
List of 10 Films Shot in Times Square
| Movie Title | Appx Time in Movie |
|---|---|
| Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) | 00:37:00 |
| The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014) | 01:40:00 |
| Avengers: Infinity War (2018) | 01:08:00 |
| The Dark Knight Rises (2012) | 02:03:00 |
| Men in Black III (2012) | 00:07:00 |
| Birdman (2014) | 00:01:00 |
| Ghostbusters (1984) | 00:07:00 |
| The Devil Wears Prada (2006) | 00:30:00 |
| American Hustle (2013) | 00:07:00 |
| Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987) | 00:03:00 |
Today, New York City remains a vital center of film and television production. With the growth of streaming services and the increasing demand for content, the city has become a hub for a new wave of independent creators and filmmakers. Here is our list of 20 films shot in Times Square, including our review, and a timeline of events.
Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) made great use of its filming location in Times Square, New York City. The iconic landmark provided a stunning backdrop for the film’s high-flying action sequences, and the bustling energy of the location added an extra layer of excitement and authenticity to the movie. The film also did a great job of showcasing the unique character and charm of New York City, making it a must-see for any fans of the web-slinging hero or the Big Apple itself. Overall, Spider-Man: Homecoming’s use of Times Square and New York City helped make it one of the most visually stunning and exciting superhero films of recent years.
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014)
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is a 2014 superhero film directed by Marc Webb and starring Andrew Garfield as the titular hero, Spider-Man. The film follows Peter Parker as he struggles to balance his personal life with his responsibilities as Spider-Man, all while battling a host of new enemies, including Electro (Jamie Foxx), Green Goblin (Dane DeHaan), and Rhino (Paul Giamatti). Along the way, Peter discovers new information about his parents’ past and must confront the consequences of his actions as Spider-Man. The film features stunning visual effects, high-flying action sequences, and a cast of talented actors who bring the iconic characters to life.
Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
The Avengers: Infinity War is a 2018 superhero film directed by Anthony and Joe Russo and starring an ensemble cast of Marvel’s most beloved heroes, including Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, and Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow. The film sees the Avengers teaming up with the Guardians of the Galaxy to stop the evil Thanos (Josh Brolin) from collecting the powerful Infinity Stones and wiping out half of all life in the universe. The movie features breathtaking action sequences, stunning special effects, and a gripping storyline that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. But what really sets Infinity War apart is its deep emotional resonance, exploring themes of sacrifice, loss, and the importance of family and friendship. With its stellar cast, epic scope, and powerful storytelling, The Avengers: Infinity War is a true cinematic masterpiece and a must-see for any fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
Directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Christian Bale as Batman. The film takes place eight years after the events of The Dark Knight, with Bruce Wayne living in seclusion after taking the fall for the death of Harvey Dent. But when a new villain, Bane (Tom Hardy), threatens to destroy Gotham City, Bruce must don the cape and cowl once again to stop him. Along the way, he teams up with new allies, including Selina Kyle (Anne Hathaway) and Officer John Blake (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), to take down Bane and save the city. The Dark Knight Rises features breathtaking action sequences, stunning visuals, and a thrilling story that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. With its stellar cast, powerful performances, and epic scope, The Dark Knight Rises is a fitting conclusion to Nolan’s acclaimed Batman trilogy and a must-see for any fans of the Caped Crusader.
Men in Black III (2012)
Men in Black III is a 2012 science fiction action-comedy film directed by Barry Sonnenfeld and starring Will Smith as Agent J and Tommy Lee Jones as Agent K. The film follows Agent J as he travels back in time to the 1960s to stop an alien criminal named Boris the Animal (Jemaine Clement) from killing Agent K and changing the course of history. Along the way, Agent J teams up with a younger version of Agent K (Josh Brolin) and uncovers surprising secrets about his partner’s past. Men in Black III is a thrilling and hilarious adventure that blends action, humor, and heart, with standout performances from Smith, Jones, and Brolin. The film features stunning visual effects and a groovy 60s soundtrack that adds to its overall charm. Men in Black III is a must-see for fans of the Men in Black franchise and anyone who loves a good sci-fi romp with plenty of laughs.
Birdman (2014)
Birdman is a 2014 dark comedy directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu and starring Michael Keaton as Riggan Thomson, a washed-up actor best known for playing a superhero called Birdman. The film follows Thomson as he attempts to revive his career by putting on a Broadway play, but things quickly spiral out of control as he battles his ego, his family, and his own sanity. With its sharp satire, witty dialogue, and hilarious meta references to Keaton’s own past as Batman, Birdman is a riotous and unforgettable film that will have you laughing from start to finish. The film also features standout performances from its all-star cast, including Edward Norton, Emma Stone, and Naomi Watts, who bring their characters to life with both humor and heart. If you’re in the mood for a film that will make you laugh out loud while also questioning the nature of art and fame, then Birdman is the perfect choice.
Ghostbusters (1984)
Ghostbusters is a classic 1984 comedy directed by Ivan Reitman and starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis as a group of eccentric scientists who start a business catching ghosts in New York City. The film features several iconic scenes shot in Times Square, including the memorable finale where the Ghostbusters use their proton packs to battle a giant Stay Puft Marshmallow Man. The film’s use of Times Square as a backdrop captures the bustling energy and iconic landmarks of New York City, adding to the film’s overall charm and humor. Ghostbusters is a timeless classic that perfectly balances comedy, horror, and science fiction, with memorable characters and quotable lines that have become a part of pop culture. Whether you’re a fan of the film or just looking for a good laugh, Ghostbusters is a must-see for anyone who loves New York City and its unique blend of humor and charm.
The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Film directed by David Frankel and starring Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, and Emily Blunt. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Lauren Weisberger and follows the story of a young aspiring journalist named Andy Sachs (Hathaway) who lands a job as the assistant to Miranda Priestly (Streep), the demanding editor-in-chief of a high-fashion magazine. As Andy tries to navigate her demanding new job, she finds herself drawn into a glamorous world of fashion, beauty, and power struggles, while also struggling to maintain her own identity and values. The film is a witty and insightful look at the cutthroat world of fashion journalism, with standout performances from Streep and Hathaway, who bring their characters to life with both humor and heart. The Devil Wears Prada is a must-see for anyone who loves fashion, New York City, or just a good story about following your dreams and staying true to yourself.
American Hustle (2013)
American Hustle is a 2013 crime comedy-drama directed by David O. Russell and starring Christian Bale, Amy Adams, and Bradley Cooper. The film is loosely based on the real-life Abscam scandal of the late 1970s and early 1980s, which involved a group of FBI agents using a con artist to entrap corrupt politicians. The film follows the story of a con man named Irving Rosenfeld (Bale) and his partner Sydney Prosser (Adams) as they team up with an FBI agent named Richie DiMaso (Cooper) to bring down corrupt politicians in New Jersey. The film features an all-star cast and has been praised for its stylish direction, sharp dialogue, and memorable performances. However, the film has also been criticized for its convoluted plot and uneven pacing. Overall, American Hustle is a complex and entertaining crime caper that is worth a watch for its impressive cast and strong direction.
Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987)
Superman IV: The Quest for Peace is a 1987 superhero film directed by Sidney J. Furie and starring Christopher Reeve as the iconic superhero Superman. The film follows the story of Superman as he tries to rid the world of nuclear weapons and bring peace to the planet. However, his efforts are thwarted by a villainous businessman named Lex Luthor (Gene Hackman), who creates a deadly nuclear man to destroy Superman. The film was a critical and commercial failure, with many critics citing poor writing, special effects, and pacing as major flaws. Despite the film’s shortcomings, Christopher Reeve’s performance as Superman was praised, as was the film’s attempt to address important social issues such as nuclear disarmament. Overall, Superman IV: The Quest for Peace is considered to be one of the weaker entries in the Superman film series and is generally only recommended for die-hard fans of the character.
Bottom Line
New York City has long been a favorite location for filmmakers due to its unique combination of stunning architecture, diverse neighborhoods, and rich history. Its iconic skyline, with the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty standing tall against the horizon, has served as the backdrop for countless films over the years. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, from the trendy and hipster-filled streets of Williamsburg to the bustling and boisterous neighborhoods of Harlem and the Bronx, provide filmmakers with a wealth of locations to choose from.
However, one of the most famous and recognizable locations in New York City is undoubtedly Times Square. Known as the “Crossroads of the World,” Times Square is an electrifying hub of activity that attracts millions of tourists every year. It’s no surprise, then, that it’s also a popular destination for filmmakers looking to capture the energy and excitement of the city.