Los Angeles, fondly known as the “City of Angels,” is globally recognized as the movie capital of the world. This lively city has provided the backdrop for countless films, TV series, and books, captivating audiences worldwide. From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the iconic landmarks scattered throughout the city, Los Angeles’s cinematic landscape is a feast for film buffs and travelers alike.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on an exciting journey through Los Angeles’s famous film locations, TV show settings, and literary contexts. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable trip to the heart of the entertainment world.
10 Famous Films Shot in Los Angeles
Los Angeles has been the setting for numerous renowned films that have left an indelible mark on the global cinema landscape. From action-packed thrillers to heartwarming rom-coms, the city’s diverse locales have played a starring role in many memorable movie scenes. Here are 10 famous films shot in Los Angeles that have captivated audiences worldwide:
- “La La Land” (2016) – This award-winning musical masterpiece was entirely shot in Los Angeles, showcasing the city’s charm in its full glory. From the Griffith Observatory to Hermosa Beach Pier, the film paints an enchanting portrait of the city.
- “Die Hard” (1988) – This action classic was filmed at Fox Plaza in Century City, which served as the fictional Nakatomi Plaza. The building’s unique architecture provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s thrilling sequences.
- “Pulp Fiction” (1994) – Quentin Tarantino’s cult classic has several scenes shot in Los Angeles, including the iconic dance sequence at the Hawthorne Grill, now a pawn shop.
- “Blade Runner” (1982) – This dystopian sci-fi film used several LA locations, including the Bradbury Building and the 2nd Street Tunnel, to create a futuristic cityscape.
- “The Big Lebowski” (1998) – This Coen Brothers’ film features a number of LA locations, including the Hollywood Star Lanes, which unfortunately no longer exists.
- “Pretty Woman” (1990) – This beloved rom-com was filmed at several iconic locations in LA, including the Beverly Wilshire Hotel and Rodeo Drive.
- “L.A. Confidential” (1997) – This noir crime film showcases a bygone era of Los Angeles, with scenes shot in the Formosa Café and the Frolic Room.
- “Chinatown” (1974) – This classic film noir, set in 1930s LA, used locations like Echo Park and the El Mañana Building to capture the city’s vintage vibe.
- “Fast & Furious” series (2001-present) – This popular action franchise has used various LA locations, like the 6th Street Bridge and Koreatown, for its high-octane car chases.
- “Inception” (2010) – Christopher Nolan’s mind-bending sci-fi thriller features numerous LA locations, including the downtown area and the iconic Los Angeles Theatre.
5 TV Shows Set in Los Angeles
Los Angeles’ vibrant cityscape has also served as the backdrop for numerous TV series. From sitcoms to crime dramas, LA’s distinct locales have provided the perfect setting for compelling narratives. Here are five TV shows set in Los Angeles that have captured viewers’ hearts:
- “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” (1990-1996) – This beloved sitcom, starring Will Smith, was set in the affluent neighborhood of Bel-Air. The Banks’ mansion, a central location in the series, is actually located in Brentwood.
- “Beverly Hills, 90210” (1990-2000) – This teen drama series, set in Beverly Hills, became a global sensation, making its zip code one of the most famous in the world.
- “The Big Bang Theory” (2007-2019) – This hit sitcom, centered around a group of friends living in Pasadena, regularly features the city’s locales, including the California Institute of Technology and the Cheesecake Factory.
- “NCIS: Los Angeles” (2009-present) – This police procedural series, set in LA, captures the city’s diverse landmarks, from Venice Beach to Downtown Los Angeles.
- “Entourage” (2004-2011) – This comedy-drama series showcases the glitzy lifestyle of Hollywood, featuring a plethora of LA locales, including the Sunset Strip and Urth Caffé.
5 Animated Films Set in Los Angeles
Los Angeles’ enchanting cityscape has not only inspired live-action films but also animated masterpieces. From classic cartoons to contemporary CGI films, Los Angeles’ iconic landmarks have been whimsically depicted on the animated screen. Here are five animated films set in LA that have charmed viewers of all ages:
- “Zootopia” (2016) – Though not directly mentioned, the city of Zootopia in this Disney film bears a striking resemblance to LA, with its diverse neighborhoods mirroring areas like Beverly Hills and the Hollywood Hills.
- “Bolt” (2008) – This heartwarming Disney film features several scenes set in Hollywood, showcasing the city’s movie studios and the iconic Hollywood Sign.
- “Cars” (2006) – While Radiator Springs is a fictional town, the film’s LA-inspired locales, including the Car Talk Plaza (a reference to LA’s NPR affiliate KPCC), bring the city’s vibe to the animated screen.
- “The Iron Giant” (1999) – This animated classic, set in the 1950s, features a fictional town in Maine but includes a scene where the titular Giant imagines he’s in Los Angeles.
- “The Simpsons Movie” (2007) – In this feature-length adaptation of the popular TV show, the Simpson family briefly visits LA, showcasing its traffic-laden freeways and the star-studded Walk of Fame.
Famous Books Set in Los Angeles: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary
Los Angeles’ vibrant culture and rich history have also been beautifully captured in literature. From classic novels to contemporary works, the city’s unique atmosphere has provided a compelling setting for numerous books. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in Los Angeles that offer captivating narratives:
Classic Books:
- “The Day of the Locust” by Nathanael West – This classic novel, set in 1930s Hollywood, offers a critical look at the film industry’s underbelly.
- “Ask the Dust” by John Fante – This semi-autobiographical novel, set in LA during the Great Depression, beautifully captures the city’s diverse landscape.
- “Play It As It Lays” by Joan Didion – This haunting novel, set in the 1960s, explores the emptiness beneath LA’s glitzy surface.
Contemporary Books:
- “Less Than Zero” by Bret Easton Ellis – This modern classic, set in 1980s LA, offers a gritty portrayal of the city’s youth culture.
- “The Black Dahlia” by James Ellroy – This gripping crime novel, inspired by a real-life murder case in 1940s LA, paints a dark picture of the city’s underbelly.
- “Southland” by Nina Revoyr – This contemporary novel, set in South Central LA, explores the city’s racial tensions and cultural transformations.
Exploring Los Angeles’ Filming Locations – Where to Go
To truly immerse yourself in Los Angeles’ cinematic history, there are several key locations you must visit. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, these locations offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s role in global cinema. Here are ten must-see filming locations to add to your LA itinerary:
- Hollywood Sign – This iconic landmark, featured in countless films and TV shows, offers panoramic views of the city.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame – Stroll down this famous sidewalk, spotting the stars of your favorite actors and filmmakers.
- Griffith Observatory – Featured in films like “La La Land,” this landmark offers stunning views of the city and the stars.
- Santa Monica Pier – This bustling pier, featured in films like “Forrest Gump,” offers a classic beachfront experience.
- Rodeo Drive – This upscale shopping street, featured in films like “Pretty Woman,” showcases LA’s luxury lifestyle.
- Bradbury Building – This architectural gem, featured in films like “Blade Runner,” is a must-see for film and architecture buffs.
- Paramount Pictures Studios – Take a tour of this historic movie studio, where countless films and TV shows have been produced.
- Venice Beach – This vibrant beachfront district, featured in numerous films and TV series, offers a lively boardwalk and picturesque canals.
- The Viper Room – This legendary nightclub, featured in films like “The Doors,” offers a taste of LA’s rock and roll scene.
- The Chateau Marmont – This historic hotel, featured in films like “Somewhere,” has been a favorite haunt of Hollywood stars for decades.
Where to Sleep in Los Angeles: 3 Cheap and 3 Luxury
When it comes to accommodation, Los Angeles offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, you’ll find the perfect place to rest your head after a day of exploring the city’s cinematic landscapes. Here are three cheap and three luxury accommodation options in Los Angeles:
Budget Accommodations:
- USA Hostels Hollywood – This vibrant hostel, located in the heart of Hollywood, offers dormitory-style rooms and a free breakfast.
- HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel – This budget-friendly hostel, located a block from the beach, offers both private and shared rooms.
- The Anderson Estates – This charming guesthouse, located in South Central LA, offers budget rooms and a free continental breakfast.
Luxury Accommodations:
- The Beverly Hills Hotel – This iconic luxury hotel, featured in numerous films and TV shows, offers lavish rooms and a glamorous pool area.
- Chateau Marmont – This historic hotel, a favorite of Hollywood stars, offers luxury suites and bungalows.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles – This luxury hotel, located in downtown LA, offers elegant rooms and a rooftop pool with panoramic city views.
Where to Eat in Los Angeles: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury
Los Angeles’ culinary scene is as vibrant and diverse as its film industry. From food trucks to fine dining, the city offers a plethora of dining options. Here are three budget and three luxury dining options in Los Angeles:
Budget Dining:
- Leo’s Taco Truck – This popular food truck, located in various spots around the city, offers delicious and affordable tacos.
- Philippe the Original – This historic restaurant, known for its French dip sandwiches, offers hearty meals at reasonable prices.
- In-N-Out Burger – This famous fast-food chain, a favorite of both locals and tourists, offers delicious burgers and shakes at budget-friendly prices.
Luxury Dining:
- Spago – This upscale restaurant, located in Beverly Hills, offers gourmet dishes by renowned chef Wolfgang Puck.
- Providence – This Michelin-starred restaurant, located on Melrose Avenue, offers exquisite seafood dishes and a fine dining experience.
- The French Laundry – This legendary restaurant, located in Yountville, offers a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience with its multi-course tasting menu.
Detailed Itinerary Day by Day
To make the most of your film-themed trip to Los Angeles, we’ve curated a comprehensive three-day itinerary that will take you to the city’s most iconic filming locations.
Day 1: Hollywood
- Start your day by taking a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame, spotting the stars of your favorite actors and filmmakers.
- Visit the TCL Chinese Theatre, a historic movie palace that has hosted numerous film premieres.
- Take a tour of the Paramount Pictures Studios, where countless films and TV shows have been produced.
- End your day with dinner at Musso & Frank Grill, a Hollywood landmark that has been featured in numerous films and TV shows.
Day 2: Downtown Los Angeles
- Start your day by exploring the Bradbury Building, an architectural gem that has been featured in films like “Blade Runner.”
- Visit the Los Angeles City Hall, a historic building that has been used as a filming location for numerous films and TV shows.
- Explore the LA Arts District, a vibrant neighborhood that has served as the backdrop for numerous films and TV series.
- End your day with dinner at The Edison, a unique restaurant located in a former power plant that has been used as a filming location.
Day 3: Beaches and Piers
- Start your day at Santa Monica Pier, a bustling pier that has been featured in films like “Forrest Gump.”
- Visit the Venice Beach Boardwalk, a vibrant beachfront district that has been featured in numerous films and TV series.
- End your day with dinner at Nobu Malibu, a luxury Japanese restaurant located on the beach that offers stunning ocean views.
Local Legends and Curiosities About Los Angeles’ Film Industry
Los Angeles’ film industry is steeped in fascinating legends and curiosities. From the Hollywood sign’s haunted tales to the infamous “Hollywood Forever Cemetery,” the city’s cinematic landscape is full of intriguing stories.
One popular legend is the ghost of the Hollywood Sign, said to be the spirit of actress Peg Entwistle, who jumped to her death from the letter “H” in 1932. Reports of a blonde woman dressed in 1930s clothing wandering in the area have added to the lore.
Another curiosity revolves around the Griffith Observatory, a popular filming location that has its own planetarium and telescopes. The building’s unique architecture and panoramic views of the city make it a favorite spot for filmmakers.
There’s also the story of the famous “Hollywood Forever Cemetery,” the final resting place of many Hollywood legends. This cemetery has been used as a filming location for several movies and even hosts outdoor movie screenings during the summer.
Hidden Gems in Los Angeles
While Los Angeles’ famous landmarks often steal the spotlight, the city also boasts several lesser-known filming locations that are worth a visit. Here are a few hidden gems in Los Angeles that offer a unique glimpse into the city’s cinematic history:
- The Magic Castle – This private clubhouse for magicians, located in Hollywood, has been featured in several films and TV shows. It’s not open to the public, but you can visit as a guest of a member.
- The Last Bookstore – This massive used bookstore, located in downtown LA, has been used as a filming location for several movies and TV shows.
- Angels Flight – This historic funicular railway, located in downtown LA, has been featured in several films, including “La La Land.”
- The Dresden – This historic restaurant and lounge, located in Los Feliz, has been featured in several films, including “Swingers.”
- The Echo Park Time Travel Mart – This quirky store, which sells time travel supplies, has been used as a filming location for several TV shows.
What to Pack for a Trip to Los Angeles
When packing for your trip to Los Angeles, it’s important to consider the city’s sunny climate and casual vibe. Here are some essentials you should include in your packing list:
- Comfortable walking shoes – You’ll be doing a lot of walking while exploring filming locations.
- Lightweight clothing – Los Angeles is known for its warm, sunny weather, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing.
- A light jacket or sweater – The evenings can get a bit chilly, especially near the beach.
- Sun protection – Don’t forget your sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun.
- A camera or smartphone – You’ll want to capture the iconic filming locations.
- A portable power bank – Keep your devices charged while you’re on the go.
- Travel documents – Don’t forget your ID, driver’s license, and any other necessary travel documents.
Transportation Tips for Getting Around Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a sprawling city, but it’s fairly easy to get around with public transportation or by car. Here are some transportation tips for your trip:
- Car Rental – Los Angeles is known for its car culture, and renting a car is the best way to explore the city at your own pace.
- Public Transportation – The Los Angeles Metro offers bus and rail services that cover most of the city.
- Biking – Los Angeles has numerous bike lanes and bike rental services, making it a great city for cycling.
- Walking – While Los Angeles is a large city, many of its neighborhoods, like Hollywood and Santa Monica, are walkable.
When planning your trip, consider the city’s notorious traffic and try to avoid peak travel times. Also, keep in mind that parking in Los Angeles can be expensive and challenging, especially in popular areas like Hollywood and downtown.
Los Angeles is more than just a city; it’s a giant movie set waiting to be explored. From its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems, each corner of the city holds a piece of cinematic history. Whether you’re a film buff, a book lover, or a travel enthusiast, exploring Los Angeles’ cinematic landscape offers an adventure like no other. So pack your bags, cue the action, and get ready to embark on a star-studded journey through the City of Angels.