Salt Lake City has been a captivating location for filmmakers, attracting a variety of movies and television shows. Its diverse urban landscape provides a versatile backdrop that can stand in for other cities or showcase a range of stories. Whether it’s a historical drama set in the heart of the Mormon capital or a comedy that explores the city’s punk rock scene, Salt Lake City has played host to an array of captivating films.
Key Takeaways:
- Salt Lake City has served as the setting for a number of films, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s charm.
- Famous movies set in Salt Lake City include “Brigham Young,” “SLC Punk!,” and “Forever Strong.”
- Notable films shot in Salt Lake City include “127 Hours,” “Con Air,” and “Dumb and Dumber.”
- Television shows filmed in Salt Lake City include “Everwood,” “Breaking Pointe,” and “Touched by an Angel.”
- The city boasts famous filming locations such as Salt Lake City International Airport and The Sandlot baseball field.
Table of Contents
Films Set in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City has been selected as the setting for a number of films that showcase the city’s unique charm. From historical dramas to cult classics, these films capture the essence of Salt Lake City’s diverse culture and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff or a fan of punk rock, there’s something for everyone in the selection of films set in Salt Lake City.
Historical Drama: “Brigham Young”
“Brigham Young” is a historical drama that tells the story of the famous Mormon leader and the early settlement of Salt Lake City. Directed by Henry Hathaway, this epic film provides a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of the pioneer days in Utah. With stunning cinematography showcasing the city’s natural beauty, “Brigham Young” is a must-watch for history enthusiasts.
Cult Classic: “SLC Punk!”
“SLC Punk!” is a cult classic that delves into the rebellious punk rock scene in Salt Lake City during the 1980s. Directed by James Merendino, this coming-of-age film follows the unconventional life of Stevo, a self-proclaimed punk, as he navigates friendships, ideologies, and the complexities of youth. With its gritty portrayal of Salt Lake City and a memorable punk soundtrack, “SLC Punk!” has become an iconic representation of the city’s alternative subculture.
Sports Drama: “Forever Strong”
“Forever Strong” is a sports drama inspired by the true story of the Highland Rugby team, based in Salt Lake City. Directed by Ryan Little, this uplifting film explores the power of teamwork, redemption, and personal growth through the lens of high school rugby. With its heartwarming storyline and breathtaking sports sequences filmed in Salt Lake City, “Forever Strong” is a testament to the city’s passion for sports and the indomitable spirit of its athletes.
Action Thriller: “The Way of the Gun”
“The Way of the Gun” is an action-packed thriller set in Salt Lake City, written and directed by Christopher McQuarrie. This gripping film follows two criminals who embark on a kidnapping scheme that spirals into a deadly game of cat and mouse. With its intense action sequences and a captivating plot set against the backdrop of Salt Lake City’s urban landscape, “The Way of the Gun” showcases the city’s versatility as a filming location.
Drama: “Net Worth”
“Net Worth” is a drama film that explores the impact of the 2002 Winter Olympics on the residents of Salt Lake City. Directed by Kenny Golde, this thought-provoking movie delves into the themes of corruption, redemption, and the pursuit of the American Dream. With its compelling narrative and authentic portrayal of Salt Lake City’s Olympic legacy, “Net Worth” offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s vibrant history.
| Film Title | Genre | Director |
|---|---|---|
| “Brigham Young” | Historical Drama | Henry Hathaway |
| “SLC Punk!” | Cult Classic | James Merendino |
| “Forever Strong” | Sports Drama | Ryan Little |
| “The Way of the Gun” | Action Thriller | Christopher McQuarrie |
| “Net Worth” | Drama | Kenny Golde |
Films Shot in Salt Lake City
In addition to films set in Salt Lake City, the city has also served as a filming location for numerous movies. Some notable films shot in Salt Lake City include “127 Hours,” which was based on the true story of a hiker who becomes trapped in a canyon; “Con Air,” an action thriller set on a hijacked plane; and “Dumb and Dumber,” a comedy starring Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels. Other films shot in Salt Lake City include “The Crow: Salvation,” “High School Musical,” and “The World’s Fastest Indian.”
Notable Films Shot in Salt Lake City
- 127 Hours – Based on the true story of a hiker trapped in a canyon.
- Con Air – An action thriller set on a hijacked plane.
- Dumb and Dumber – A comedy starring Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels.
- The Crow: Salvation
- High School Musical
- The World’s Fastest Indian
Television Shows Shot in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City has also been a popular location for television shows. The city’s picturesque landscapes and vibrant urban areas have served as the backdrop for various TV productions, showcasing the unique charm of Salt Lake City. Here are some notable TV shows shot in Salt Lake City:
- Everwood: A heartwarming drama series that follows a widowed doctor who moves his family to a small town. The show explores themes of family, friendship, and the challenges of starting over.
- Breaking Pointe: A reality TV show that takes viewers behind the scenes of Ballet West, a renowned ballet company in Salt Lake City. Follow the dancers as they navigate the competitive world of professional dance.
- Touched by an Angel: A beloved drama series about a group of angels who assist people in need. The show often utilized the beautiful scenery of Salt Lake City as a backdrop for its uplifting stories.
- The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City: An entertaining reality TV show that follows the lives of affluent women living in Salt Lake City. Get a glimpse into their luxurious lifestyles and the drama that unfolds.
- High School Musical: The Musical: The Series: A musical drama series inspired by the popular “High School Musical” franchise. The show follows a group of theater students as they prepare for a production of their own.
These TV shows shot in Salt Lake City not only entertain audiences but also showcase the city’s rich culture, diverse landscapes, and thriving arts scene. Salt Lake City continues to attract television productions, proving to be a versatile and visually captivating location for storytelling.
Famous Filming Locations in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is not only known for its appearances on the small screen; it is also home to several famous filming locations that have been featured in numerous movies and TV shows. These iconic locations add an extra layer of authenticity and charm to the on-screen portrayals of Salt Lake City. Some of these notable filming locations include:
| Famous Filming Locations | Featured in |
|---|---|
| Salt Lake City International Airport | Various films, including “Airport 1975” |
| The Sandlot | The beloved baseball field featured in the movie “The Sandlot” |
| Temple Square | Multiple films and TV shows that showcase this iconic landmark |
| The Salt Lake City and County Building | Various productions that utilize this historic building |
| Neighborhoods and streets throughout the city | Films and shows that capture the essence of Salt Lake City’s distinct neighborhoods |
These famous filming locations have become ingrained in the city’s identity and contribute to its on-screen legacy. From the bustling airport scenes to the nostalgic baseball field, each location adds depth and authenticity to the stories set in Salt Lake City.
Famous Filming Locations in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City boasts several famous filming locations that have played a prominent role in numerous movies and TV shows. These iconic sites have provided the perfect backdrop for captivating stories set in the city.
The Salt Lake City International Airport
One notable filming location is the Salt Lake City International Airport. This bustling hub has been featured in films like “Airport 1975,” where it served as a dramatic setting for aviation adventures.
The Sandlot
Another beloved filming location in Salt Lake City is The Sandlot, a baseball field that became the heart of the classic movie of the same name. This nostalgic setting captured the spirit of childhood friendships and summer adventures.
Temple Square
Temple Square is a significant landmark in Salt Lake City, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance. It has been featured in various movies and TV shows, adding an air of grandeur and cultural richness to the on-screen narratives.
The Salt Lake City and County Building
The Salt Lake City and County Building is an iconic structure that has served as a filming location for several productions. Its majestic presence and unique architectural features have made it a captivating backdrop for both movies and TV shows.
Neighborhoods and Streets
In addition to these specific locations, Salt Lake City’s neighborhoods and streets have also made appearances on the silver screen. From charming residential areas to vibrant commercial districts, these diverse settings have brought authenticity and local flavor to numerous productions.
Famous Filming Locations in Salt Lake City
| Filming Location | Notable Productions |
|---|---|
| Salt Lake City International Airport | “Airport 1975” |
| The Sandlot | “The Sandlot” |
| Temple Square | Various movies and TV shows |
| The Salt Lake City and County Building | Various movies and TV shows |
| Neighborhoods and Streets | Various movies and TV shows |
These famous filming locations in Salt Lake City have not only provided captivating backdrops for movies and TV shows but have also showcased the city’s diversity and cultural heritage on the big screen. Exploring these locations allows movie enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the on-screen world and experience the magic of Salt Lake City’s filmography.
Conclusion
Salt Lake City’s charm and versatility as a filming location have made it a popular destination for both film and television productions. With its diverse urban landscape and recognizable landmarks, the city provides the perfect backdrop for a wide range of stories. From historical dramas to comedies, Salt Lake City’s on-screen presence is felt in a variety of genres.
Whether you’re a fan of indie gems or blockbuster hits, exploring movies set in or shot in Salt Lake City is a great way to experience the city’s on-screen magic. The city’s rich filmography offers something for everyone, showcasing the beauty and unique character of Salt Lake City.
As filmmakers from around the world continue to be drawn to Salt Lake City, the city’s reputation as a filming destination only continues to grow. So whether you’re a local or a visitor, take the opportunity to discover the movies and TV shows that have brought Salt Lake City to life on screen. You’ll gain a new appreciation for the city’s charm and its contribution to the world of cinema.
