Table Of Content
- Lights, Camera, Rochester! Explore the Filming Locations of These Movies in Upstate New York
- The Amazing Spider-Man 2 – US Box Office: USD$202,853,933
- Wonder Boys – US Box Office: USD$19,393,557
- Lady in White – US Box Office: USD$1,705,139
- The Tomorrow Man – US Box Office: USD$354,103
- Be Natural: The Untold Story of Alice Guy-Blaché – US Box Office: USD$116,584
- King’s Faith – US Box Office: USD$90,106
- The Hammer – US Box Office: USD$30,929
- The Alphabet Killer – US Box Office: USD$29,784
- Drivers Wanted – US Box Office: USD$25,189
- Wildflower – US Box Office: USD$18,062
- Book of Evil
Lights, Camera, Rochester! Explore the Filming Locations of These Movies in Upstate New York
Lights, camera, action! Calling all fellow movie enthusiasts and travel bugs – we’ve got just the thing for you. Tucked away in the scenic beauty of Upstate New York lies the charming city of Rochester.
And guess what? This hidden gem has served as the backdrop for some unforgettable movies. So, if you’re feeling bored or simply seeking adventure, why not don your explorer’s hat and pay a visit to the actual filming locations? Trust us, you’re in for an experience that’s reel-y special!
Key Takeaways:
- Discover the filming locations of your favorite movies in Rochester, New York.
- Get a chance to step into the shoes of your favorite movie characters.
- Immerse yourself in the magic of the silver screen while exploring the city.
Now, let’s talk about why visiting movie filming locations can be an absolute blast. Picture this: strolling through the same streets as your beloved Hollywood stars, imagining yourself as the next big thing behind the camera, or perhaps even recreating your favorite movie scenes with your friends. It’s all possible when you embark on this cinematic adventure!
Feel the rush as you stand on the very spot where your favorite heart-wrenching scene unfolded or tap into your inner detective by retracing the steps of your favorite crime-solving movie. Let your imagination run wild as you walk in the footsteps of legendary actors and actresses, and who knows, the inspiration for your own blockbuster might strike!
But that’s not all – exploring movie filming locations in Rochester also gives you a chance to soak up the local culture. Discover charming neighborhoods, eclectic eateries, and hidden gems that played a supporting role in these films.
Follow in the path of your favorite characters and see the city through their eyes. Who knows, you might stumble upon a quaint coffee shop that served as the backdrop for an unforgettable cinematic moment.
And let’s not forget the thrill of unraveling the secrets behind movie magic. Ever wondered how a seemingly ordinary street transforms into a bustling movie set? With a trip to Rochester’s filming locations, you’ll gain insider knowledge and a new appreciation for the art of filmmaking.
Discover the tricks of the trade, spot behind-the-scenes snippets, and marvel at how Hollywood can make any place look like a world of its own.
So, dear movie buff and adventure seeker, embark on an unforgettable journey through the cinematic wonders of Rochester, New York. Immerse yourself in the magic, relive iconic moments, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a fan of romance, action, comedy, or drama, this city has something for everyone.
Lights are rolling, cameras are set – it’s time for you to take center stage and explore the movies filmed in Rochester, New York. Let the reel adventure begin!
Don’t just take our word for it – grab your map, pack your backpack, and start your journey through the city where movies come to life. The listicle below is waiting to guide you to the exact spots where movie magic happened. Lights, camera, action – your cinematic adventure awaits!
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 – US Box Office: USD$202,853,933
Director: Marc Webb
Main Cast: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Jamie Foxx, Paul Giamatti, Dane DeHaan, Colm Feore, Felicity Jones
Release Date: May 2, 2014
Filming Locations: Rochester, New York, USA; Brooklyn, New York City, New York, USA; New York City, New York, USA; Grumman Aerospace Factory, Bethpage, Long Island, New York, USA; Ironhead Studio, Los Angeles, California, USA
Main Plot: The fight between Peter Parker’s regular obligations and Spider-extraordinary Man’s responsibilities is the most significant internal conflict for Spider-Man. However, Peter Parker discovers in The Amazing Spider-Man 2 that his toughest fight is about to start. Being Spider-Man is wonderful. Nothing quite compares to the feeling of being the hero, swinging between buildings, and spending time with Gwen for Peter Parker. However, there is a cost to becoming Spider-Man. Only Spider-Man can defend his fellow New Yorkers from powerful enemies when the city is under attack. With the appearance of Electro, Peter is forced to fight his enemy, who is far stronger than himself. Peter learns that all his enemies share a trait as his old acquaintance Harry Osborn makes a comeback.
Famous quotes:
Gwen Stacy: “It’s easy to feel hopeful on a beautiful day like today, but there will be dark days ahead of us too. There will be days when you feel all alone, and that’s when hope is needed most. No matter how buried it gets or how lost you feel, you must promise me that you will hold on to hope. Keep it alive. We have to be greater than what we suffer. My wish for you is to become hope.”
Gwen Stacy: “I’m coming with you. I’ve seen the grid specs and know how to reset the entire system.”
Spider-Man: “[swinging away] Sorry. I love you. Don’t hate me.”
Peter Parker: “That was a mistake. Because I washed the American flag. Can I just please?”
Peter Parker: “Every day I wake up knowing that no matter how many lives I protect, no matter how many people call me a hero, someone even more powerful could change everything.”
Sequel: The Amazing Spider-Man; Spider-Man 3; Spider-Man 2
Fun facts about The Amazing Spider-Man 2:
- It was the first Spider-Man film to be shot entirely in New York and the largest theatrical run ever in New York.
- Emma Stone writes Gwen’s graduation speech in the film.
- Shailene Woodley played Mary Jane Watson and even filmed some scenes. But her role was cut from the film because the filmmakers felt there were too many characters and wanted to streamline the series.
- The dog Gwen walks while Peter spies on her from a rooftop was adopted by Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone in 2013.
Wonder Boys – US Box Office: USD$19,393,557
Director: Curtis Hanson
Main Cast: Michael Douglas, Tobey Maguire, Frances McDormand, Robert Downey Jr., Katie Holmes, Rip Torn, Richard Knox
Release Date: February 25, 2000
Filming Locations: Pittsburgh International Airport, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; 359 South Atlantic Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Modern Cafe – 862 Western Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Rostraver Township, Pennsylvania, USA; Rochester, Pennsylvania, USA
Main Plot: Grady Tripp, a professor at Carnegie Mellon, finds out that his married mistress is pregnant the same day his third wife leaves him. His literary agent arrives to put pressure on him to finish a book that has been in the works for seven years. He was considered a wonder boy when he published his first book seven years ago. He was uncertain over the weekend about making decisions because he uses marijuana. Grady may experience parental sentiments for one of his students, James Leer, and develop homo-erotic impulses. Academic politics complicate matters because Grady’s mistress is the chair of Grady’s department. What will happen next to Grady?
Famous quotes:
James Leer: “Now, that is a big trunk. It almost perfectly holds a tuba, a suitcase, a dead dog, and a garment bag.”
Grady Tripp: “Okay, James, I wish you hadn’t shot my girlfriend’s dog. Even though Poe and I weren’t exactly what you’d call simpatico, that’s no reason he should’ve taken two in the chest.”
Vernon Hardapple: “Why did you keep writing this book if you didn’t even know what it was about?”
Grady Tripp: “I had no business trudging up to James Leer’s parent’s house in the middle of the night. Not when all that mattered was trying to make things right with Sarah. But we had decided to rescue James Leer. I wasn’t sure from what because I was convinced that everything that came out of James’ mouth was basically horseshit. But maybe that really didn’t matter. Sometimes people just need to be rescued.”
Grady Tripp: “Right. That’s why you were in the Chancellor’s backyard twirling your little cap gun tonight. You’re fine, all right. You’re fit as a fucking fiddle.”
Sequel: Pleasantville; The Ice Storm
Fun facts about Wonder Boys:
- The film was originally released in February 2000 to nearly universal praise (particularly for Michael Douglas’ performance) but with very little fanfare.
- Paramount, the film’s distributor, decided to re-release the film in November with a different marketing campaign that highlighted its strong supporting cast and hoped it would earn Oscar nominations. However, Paramount’s vice president, Rob Friedman, admitted that no studio had ever successfully re-released an image that initially failed.
Lady in White – US Box Office: USD$1,705,139
Director: Frank LaLoggia
Main Cast: Lucas Haas, Len Caribou, Alex Rocco, Katherine Helmond, Jason Presson, Renata Vanni, Angelo Bertolini, Joelle Jacobi
Release Date: April 22, 1988
Filming Locations: Lyons, New York, USA; Rochester, New York, USA; South Bristol, New York, USA; Canandaigua, New York, USA; Phelps, New York, USA
Main Plot: A successful horror author arrives in Willowpoint Falls at the movie’s start. He tells his driver about their lives after stopping at a cemetery to examine a couple of gravestones. 9-year-old Franklin “Frankie” Scarlatti (Lukas Haas) tells his pupils a spooky tale on Halloween in 1962. After that, Frankie’s hat is taken by two school pranksters, Donald (Jared Rushton) and Louie (Gregory Levinson), and placed on a shelf in the changing room. They inform Frankie of its whereabouts before locking him in the cloakroom while he tries to retrieve it. When night falls, Frankie is still imprisoned in the room and witnesses a little girl’s ghost performing her own murder.
Famous quotes:
Mama Assunta: “He’s drowning himself because I hid his cigarettes.”
Louie: “[after Donald mocks Frankie for liking a girl, Frankie knocks him out with a punch to the face] Gee, wish I were in love.”
Frankie Scarlatti: “[about Melissa t, the ghost who Geno sees for the first time] She’s looking for her mother.”
Geno Scarlatti: “[Frankie knees Geno in the groin] Quick! Call a doctor!”
Geno Scarlatti: “To save my unborn child!”
Sequel: Ghost Story
Fun facts about Lady in White:
- Frankie heard the piano piece as he passed Amanda’s house: “Clair de lune, Suite Bergamasque No. 3” by the classical artist Claude Debussy.
- Hailing from Rochester, New York, Frank LaLoggia bases the film on a popular and long-running local urban legend, “The White Lady.” According to legend, the White Lady had a daughter who disappeared at the hands of a rapacious young suitor. To this day, the White Lady roams the shores of the lake in search of her missing daughter.
The Tomorrow Man – US Box Office: USD$354,103
Director: Noble Jones
Main Cast: John Lithgow, Blythe Danner, Derek Cecil, Katie Aselton, Sophie Thatcher, Eve Harlow, Wendy Makkena
Release Date: August 2, 2019
Filming Locations: Lyons, New York, USA; Gates Big M – 1520 Spencerport Rd, Rochester, New York, USA; 19 Grand Erie Way, Fairport, New York, USA; Dobbins Drugs – 52 William St, Lyons, New York, USA; Rochester, New York, USA
Main Plot: Ed Hemsler fits a stereotype of the lonely, elderly white man who believes in conspiracies and the world’s end. He puts a lot of money, time, and effort into a secret, sealed disaster shelter where he feels more at home than his own. He feels good when his shelves of neatly arranged food and supplies are there. He chooses to argue with the television news anchor while relaxing in his chair or participates in online conversations about the end of the world while seated at his desk. He does not want to return to his true home due to the tension with his son because they have a complicated relationship. While Ronnie Meisner, a muttering, stooping, aged white woman, has a different stereotype. She surrounds herself with mementos, trinkets, and useless rubbish in her home, which acts as a crusty shield to screen her from disappointment in the present and past. It could become a little too cutesy that these two meet and start an unexpected, tentative romance. But Noble appears to have bigger plans.
Famous quotes:
Brian: “You’re the smartest man I know.”
Ed: “[talking to his son on the phone] I’m saying that it’s more than what it seems, that’s all.”
Ed: “People don’t know because they’re too busy with their game shows and football and silliness to take the time to look and read and figure it all out.”
Tina: “Oh, man. I only hope I can do it like you do when I’m your age.”
Ed: “You’re my BFF. My granddaughter told me what that means. Best friend forever.”
Sequel: All These Small Moments; Adopt a Highway
Fun Fact about Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze:
- When he first shows his shelter, there are three cans of Vegemite. This is an Australian yeast extract spread (like Marmite in the UK) that some in Australia love, but it’s an acquired taste. It has a long shelf life and a long way to go, so it could be a “prepper” favorite.
- Most of the movie scenes were filmed in Rochester, NY, where John Lithgow was born.
Be Natural: The Untold Story of Alice Guy-Blaché – US Box Office: USD$116,584
Director: Pamela B. Green
Main Cast: Jodie Foster, Alice Guy, Pamela B. Green, Catherine Hardwicke, Lorenzo di Bonaventura,
Filming Locations: Los Angeles, California, USA; Paris, France; Deutsche Kinemathek, Potsdamer Strasse 2, Berlin, Germany; Fort Lee, New Jersey, USA; Santa Monica, California, USA
Main Plot: The film first shows how few well-known filmmakers today know who Guy is and what she has accomplished in her career. She made hundreds of movies in France and the United States at a time when women had few jobs other than shorthand and housework. She directed productions, pioneered the language of cinema, and opened her own film studio in Fort Lee, New Jersey, the Hollywood town of the early days of the motion picture industry. Yet despite all her success, she has been excluded from several history books. Her legacy was questioned due to her gender, and her works were attributed to male assistants or actors.
Famous quotes:
Narrator: “Guy resigned from Gaumont to accompany her husband to the US. Alice returned to filmmaking and founded her own company. She directs and manages all aspects of production. Alice disappears from filmmaking after a two-decade career in two countries, including a thousand films she wrote, directed, or produced.”
Julie Taymor: “It’s unbelievable to be a film director, and as old as I am, and to be a woman, and have never heard of her.”
Alice Guy: “[1964 interview] It seemed extraordinary to me. It filled me with adoration. It was the birth of Cinema.”
Narrator: “Alice, inspired by the Lumière screening, thinks something better can be done to document daily life. Why not use film to tell stories? Alice Guy writes, directs, and produces one of the first narrative films ever. Alice is one of the first to utilize many film techniques, including close-ups, hand-tinted color, and synchronized sound.”
Jane Gaines: “One could say Alice Guy is important to film history for all of the obvious reasons: she starts her own company, directs, writes, she is the producer extraordinaire. But that’s not the best reason. Alice Guy-Blaché proves how wrong we often are. Women couldn’t do it. Women wouldn’t do it.”
Sequel: Women Make Film: A New Road Movie Through Cinema
Fun facts about Be Natural: The Untold Story of Alice Guy-Blaché:
- It is an intriguing documentary that highlights the extraordinary career of the first woman to direct a film and possibly the first director ever
- It was narrated by its own producer Jodie Foster. The documentary tells the remarkable story of the life of a woman who was one of the first delighted witnesses to the Enlightenment’s first demonstrations of their invention of the cinematograph in Paris.
King’s Faith – US Box Office: USD$90,106
Director: Nicholas DiBella
Main Cast: Crawford Wilson, Lynn Whitfield, James McDaniel, Kayla Compton, Christopher Jon Martin, Brandon Correa,
Release Date: April 26, 2013
Filming Locations: Rochester, New York, USA
Main Plot: The story begins while in prison for several crimes, young offender Brendan King became a Christian. Now entering his eighteenth foster home and new high school, he hopes his newfound faith will stick. But his infamous past threatens to drag him back. A fearsome local sheriff won’t ignore his long rap sheet. A high school football hero threatens to be nasty after losing his prom queen. When Brendan’s ex-gang friend searches for the hidden mob, he dies. Heroin’s pursuit of him and his newfound intimacy lead Brendan to a melting pot of confidence he may lose. What do you think Brendan will do?
Famous quotes:
Brendan King: “Everyone has their number. My number is 18. This is my 18th foster home placement, and that goes along with other numbers – 11 misdemeanors, 9 felonies, 4 convictions, and 1 new haircut at the insistence of my case worker.”
Chris Sheedy: “Well, look, Northside is like any other school. We got jocks, geeks, princesses, and even a few cool kids like me.”
Chris Sheedy: “[referring to his past] Anyway, I wouldn’t worry if it gets out. Girls love a bad boy. It’s in their DNA. They love the challenge to reform a rebellious boy.”
Det. Russell Dwyer: “Do you remember that story I told you about Stubbs’ son? Now, we never caught the guy who did that. I know you didn’t do it, but you’re what I picture when I think of him.”
Hannah: “Well, sometimes I see the work we do, and I feel like we’re just going through the motions, you know, cleaning up garbage in the park, stuffing Red Cross envelopes. It’s good and everything, but we’re a faith club, and I just don’t feel like we’re making the spiritual connection we should be.”
Sequel: Unconditional; Amazing Love
Fun facts about King’s Faith:
- The cheerleaders in the background are the Pittsford Sutherland High School cheer squad.
The Hammer – US Box Office: USD$30,929
Director: Oren Kaplan
Main Cast: Russell Harvard, Raymond J. Barry, Shoshannah Stern, Courtney Halverson, Susan Gibney, Joseph McKelheer
Release Date: October 27, 2011
Filming Locations: California, USA; New York, USA; Nevada, USA; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Rochester, New York, USA
Main Plot: It is a coming-of-age drama about the life of Matt Hamill, the first deaf wrestler to win a national collegiate wrestling championship. The Hammer is a sports drama that tells the story of the struggles and successes Matt Hamill faced on his way to becoming a champion. He was raised among normal people. Matt later discovered that he was just as much of an outsider in the deaf community. With tremendous determination, he saw his disability as an advantage and became the first deaf wrestler to win a national collegiate championship. He was an inspiration to hearing and deaf people like him.
Famous quotes:
Stanley Leroy McCoy: “After a couple of flashing lights and a teddy bear, you’re gonna tell me my grandson is deaf and dumb?”
Kristi Jones: “I can feel the ground rumbling from the falling water.”
Matt Hamill: “Yeah. I love its strength.”
Kristi Jones: “It’s funny because it’s so powerful, yet it has to follow the path that nature built for it.”
Matt Hamill: “Or you could say that it ignores nature and builds the path for itself.”
Sequel: The Hammer 2
Fun facts about The Hammer:
- Real deaf actors play all deaf characters.
- Coach Pruitt, Purdue University’s wrestling coach, is played by Franklin. In real life, Franklin fought Matt Hamill in the UFC on September 6, 2008.
- You can see the real Jay as one of Purdue’s wrestlers.
- In the UFC Finals scene, you can see Coach Cantrell and the real Matt Hamill, played by Eben Kostbar.
- UFC scenes were filmed at UFC live events.
The Alphabet Killer – US Box Office: USD$29,784
Director: Rob Schmidt
Main Cast: Cary Elwes, Eliza Dushku, Timothy Hutton, Tom Malloy, Michael Ironside, Carl Lumbly
Release Date: December 10, 2009
Filming Locations: Rochester, New York, USA; Ridgewood, Queens, New York City, New York, USA; East Rochester, New York, USA
Main Plot: A little girl was kidnapped, raped, and murdered in Rochester. Detective Megan Page investigates the crime. She works long and hard and soon sees visions of dead girls. The FBI described the killer as a homeless man who was fortunately not caught. Megan thought he was an innate and methodical planner. She noted that the victims’ first and last names and the location of the remains began with “C.” When the second murder followed the same pattern, Megan was acquitted. Still, her obsession took over, and her mental condition interfered with her work. With the help of drugs, therapy, and friends, can she regain her balance and catch the alphabet killer?
Famous quotes:
Officer Steven Harper: We should have flattered him. You’re an attractive woman; we could’ve used that.
Megan Paige: What are you saying? Do you want me to go back and shake my tits for him?
Megan Paige: Mostly, the job is to ask questions. The frustrating part that drives you crazy is that the people you want to talk to are dead.
Richard Ledge: Because then you would have known that I killed them.
Sequel: Eloise; Open Graves
Fun facts about The Alphabet Killer:
- While filming portions of the film in Spencerport, New York, a production company panel truck tore down two utility poles with transformers attached. A car was then set on fire but could not be extinguished with water until the power was cut. 11 residents were evicted from their homes and put up in hotels by the production company.
- The movie is based on a true story.
- The film was dedicated to the director’s mentor, Stuart Rosenberg.
Drivers Wanted – US Box Office: USD$25,189
Director: T. Lee Beideck
Main Cast: David Sirk, Brian Osborne, Dave Spiecher, Sal Amaury, T. Lee Beideck, Tree Clemonds, Two Sari, Jeremy McBride
Release Date: June 24, 2005
Filming Locations: Rochester, New York, USA
Main Plot: This story welcomes everyone in the world of pizza delivery drivers! Join the raging gang in Bob’s Pizza as they take us on all sorts of crazy adventures. There are a lot of adventures you can experience, like you will find the man of your dreams because of Little Debbie. You can explore philosophy with Sheldon. Honk the horn with Friendly. Drive the El Camino with Mango and avoid the dog with Rupert. Cheat with Tyler and exact justice on all the obnoxious people. At the same time, Peter buys a Chinese lunch. Get to know the entire funny town as this unconventional actor reveals their personalities and paints a deadpan and funny portrait of a pizza delivery man.
Famous quotes:
Sheldon: “I’m always careful when I rub my eyes while I’m doing. I don’t want to get run into and have my finger go through my face.”
Customer: “Let me just check this out, chief. There’s a slice missing!”
Tyler: “The customer’s always *wrong*.”
Friendly: “[chewing] No, there isn’t.”
Tyler: “Okay, now don’t go picking other peoples’ noses now, you hear?”
Sequel: Beerfest; Pineapple Express
Fun facts about Drivers Wanted:
- The film’s Genre is Comedy. Its Subgenres are Ensemble Films and Workplace Comedies.
- The movie’s Run Time is 94 minutes.
Wildflower – US Box Office: USD$18,062
Director: Nicholas Ramos
Main Cast: Nathalia Ramos, Cody Anthony, Alexa Rose Steele, Benjamin Ashbrook, Kate Gill, Kevin McCorkle
Release Date: April 5, 2016
Filming Locations: Rochester, New York, USA; Brockport, New York, USA; New York, USA
Main Plot: The Turtles live at April O’Neil’s new apartment with Master Splinter while they are between homes following their rooftop battle with the Foot Clan. They are also relying on pizza delivery from “Roy’s” Pizza. Splinter recognizes the initials from the canister of mutagen that caused them all to become mutants, as April reports on the cleanup effort being carried out in the city by TGRI. The Shredder is still alive and well, has taken back control of the Foot, and seeks vengeance on Splinter and his pupils. He kidnaps Professor David Perry of the TGRI. He forces him to help create two aggressive mutants to serve as his own students after finding that the ooze can alter animals into minions. Creative university student Chloe Morey finds solace in her difficult childhood through her extraordinary art. But when a shocking dream appears every night, Chloe starts to believe that it might be a repressed memory and that she may have witnessed a horrific crime as a child. Her search for peace leads her on a journey that forces Chloe to confront past traumas and meet Josh, a young man dealing with his own painful loss. Together, they find someone they can trust in each other as they try to solve the mystery of an unsolved case from years ago. But when the authorities disrupt it, Chloe’s newfound hope is challenged in this powerful story of faith, victory, and healing.
Famous quotes:
Chloe: “My name is Chloe. I’m 20.”
Chloe: “I still have difficulty letting people get close to me.”
Chole: “But each day, I get better.”
Chloe: “I’m open to trusting more trusting things will work out for me.”
Chloe: “All my scars will start to fade, and perhaps as they fade, I’ll be set free and finally feel free.”
Sequel: The Mystery of Her
Fun facts about Wildflower:
- The main character has a voiceover that is a bit made for TV.
- Faith and God are strong themes in this film.
Book of Evil
Director: James Coleman, Vincent Coleman, and Michael Del Rosa
Main Cast: Brian Barrett, Jessie Bell, Nick Bianchi, Gref Boyton, Kaylin Cervini, Michael Del Rosa, Shawn Essler, Laura Morelock, Danielle Smith, Isaac Thompson
Release Date: December 18, 2018
Filming Locations: Rochester, New York, USA
Main Plot: Stan Harris, a procrastinating horror writer, gets a call from his publisher warning him that if he cannot finish his latest work until late at night, he will get fired. As paranormal events unfold around him, Stan finds new inspiration and danger as he completes his story.
Famous quotes:
Narrator: “In real life, there are no happy endings.“
Narrator: “The most terrifying film you will ever experience.”
Sequel: The Unwanted
Fun fact about Book of Evil:
- When Brian Barrett was filming the Squatters segment in the abandoned house in the middle of winter, he contracted pneumonia in both lungs and was bedridden for six weeks.
