The vibrant city of Sydney has served as the backdrop for numerous films throughout the years. From thrilling heists to heartfelt dramas, here is a curated list of the best movies set in Sydney.
Key Takeaways:
- Experience the charm and vibrancy of Sydney through these must-watch movies set in the city.
- Discover the diverse landscapes and iconic landmarks of Sydney showcased in these films.
- From romance to action and comedy, Sydney offers a variety of genres to suit every taste.
- Explore the Sydney film scene and immerse yourself in Australian cinema at its finest.
- Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be captivated by these Sydney-based films.
Table of Contents
The Great Gatsby (2013)
Directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, The Great Gatsby is a visually stunning film that was filmed in Sydney. Approximately 40% of the movie was shot in the city, making it an integral part of the cinematic experience. From lavish parties to tragic love affairs, Sydney’s unique charm and iconic locations contributed to the immersive world of this adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel.
Sydney Film Locations
The filmmakers carefully selected various locations in Sydney to bring the story to life. Here are some notable film locations:
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| International College of Management, Manly | Used as the exterior of Gatsby’s mansion, this stunning location provided the perfect backdrop for the extravagant parties. |
| Breenhold Gardens, Blue Mountains | The breathtaking gardens served as the setting for memorable scenes, including Gatsby’s final meeting with Nick Carraway. |
| Waverly Cemetery | This iconic Sydney landmark created a haunting atmosphere for the funeral scene in the film. |
These locations not only added depth to the story but also showcased the beauty of Sydney’s landscapes and architecture. The film captured the essence of the city, combining the opulence of the 1920s with the contemporary allure of modern Sydney.
The Matrix Trilogy (1999-2003)
The Matrix trilogy, consisting of the films The Matrix (1999), The Matrix Reloaded (2003), and The Matrix Revolutions (2003), was entirely filmed in Sydney, Australia. The city’s skyscrapers and iconic landmarks provided the perfect backdrop for the futuristic and dystopian mega-city feel that the movies are known for.
Key Sydney film locations featured in The Matrix trilogy include:
| Location | Image |
|---|---|
| Martin Place | |
| BT tower in Market Street |
The towering skyscrapers and bustling city streets of Martin Place, as well as the futuristic architecture of the BT tower, perfectly captured the vision of a mega-city consumed by advanced technology and virtual realities. These locations contributed to the immersive and visually stunning world of The Matrix trilogy.
Priscilla Queen of the Desert (1994)
Priscilla Queen of the Desert is a beloved Australian film that takes viewers on a colorful and entertaining journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Sydney. This iconic movie was filmed all over the city, showcasing some of its most vibrant locations. One of the main filming spots was the Imperial Hotel on Erskineville Road, which played a significant role in capturing the essence of the story.
In addition to Sydney, the film also features other stunning locations such as Alice Springs in the Northern Territory and the unique town of Coober Pedy in South Australia. These diverse settings provide a visually stunning backdrop for the film’s memorable moments.
Priscilla Queen of the Desert is not only known for its captivating storyline and talented cast, but also for its fabulous costumes and dazzling musical numbers. The film celebrates the power of self-expression and acceptance while highlighting the beauty of Sydney and its vibrant culture.
Filming Locations in Priscilla Queen of the Desert:
| Location | Film Scene |
|---|---|
| The Imperial Hotel – Erskineville Road | Main filming location where the characters gather and perform |
| Alice Springs, Northern Territory | Desert scenes and pivotal moments in the story |
| Coober Pedy, South Australia | Distinctive underground town where the characters experience memorable adventures |
Priscilla Queen of the Desert has become a beloved Australian classic that showcases the charm and diversity of Sydney and its surroundings. The film’s success can be attributed to its heartwarming storyline, talented cast, and the breathtaking landscapes that serve as its backdrop.
Crocodile Dundee (1986)
The classic Australian film, Crocodile Dundee, introduced the world to the character of Mick Dundee, played by Paul Hogan. This iconic movie was primarily filmed in both Queensland and Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory, showcasing the stunning landscapes of Australia.
Filming Locations
Crocodile Dundee takes viewers on an adventure through the rugged Outback, capturing the essence of the Australian wilderness. Let’s take a look at some of the notable filming locations:
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Queensland | The majority of the film was shot in various locations across Queensland. These include the stunning Atherton Tablelands, where the iconic crocodile wrestling scene was filmed, and the Daintree Rainforest, showcasing the lush tropical beauty of the region. |
| Kakadu National Park | Crocodile Dundee also takes viewers to the breathtaking Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory. This World Heritage-listed site is known for its rich biodiversity, ancient rock art, and stunning landscapes. |
With its unique blend of comedy and adventure, Crocodile Dundee remains a beloved film that showcases the beauty and allure of the Australian Outback.
Strictly Ballroom (1992)
Directed by Baz Luhrmann, Strictly Ballroom is a dazzling film that showcases the vibrant world of competitive ballroom dancing. Unsurprisingly, this beloved Australian movie was filmed in Sydney, capturing the city’s energy and charm.
The main filming location for Strictly Ballroom was the Petersham Town Hall, a beautiful heritage building that provided the perfect backdrop for the captivating dance scenes. The grandeur and elegance of the hall added a touch of magic to the film, immersing audiences in the world of rhinestones and sequins.
In addition to Petersham Town Hall, the film also featured other notable Sydney film locations. One of these locations was Marrickville, where an iconic scene with the Coke sign was filmed. This scene became a memorable moment in the movie and showcased the rich tapestry of Sydney’s urban landscape.
With its dazzling dance sequences, heartfelt story, and stunning Sydney backdrop, Strictly Ballroom captivated audiences around the world. It remains a beloved cinematic gem that celebrates the joy of following your dreams, both on and off the dance floor.
Key Film Locations in Strictly Ballroom
| Film Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Petersham Town Hall | The main filming location for the dazzling dance scenes. |
| Marrickville | Iconic scene filmed with the Coke sign, showcasing Sydney’s urban landscape. |
The Castle (1997)
The Castle is a beloved Australian comedy film that was set and filmed in Sydney. It tells the story of the Kerrigan family and their fight against the government to keep their family home. The film became a cultural phenomenon and is known for its quotable lines and endearing characters.
If you’re a fan of quirky and heartwarming comedies, The Castle is a must-watch. The film captures the unique charm of Sydney and showcases some of the city’s iconic landmarks.
Notable Sydney film locations:
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| The Kerrigan family home | |
| Sydney Airport | Scene at the airport |
| Maroubra Beach | Family outing at the beach |
These are just a few of the locations where The Castle was filmed. The film beautifully captures the essence of Sydney and the spirit of its residents.
Conclusion
Sydney, with its iconic landmarks and diverse landscapes, has played a significant role in numerous films. From the captivating romance of The Great Gatsby to the thrilling adventures of Crocodile Dundee, these movies showcase the charm and vibrancy of the city. Whether you’re in the mood for action, comedy, or drama, Sydney offers a wide range of must-watch films that will immerse you in its captivating cinematic world.
With its stunning cinematography and rich storytelling, Sydney-based films have become a prominent part of the Australian film industry. From the futuristic mega-city feel of The Matrix trilogy to the heartwarming comedy of The Castle, these movies transport viewers into the heart and soul of Sydney.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Sydney cinema scene and experience the magic of these top movies set in the beautiful city. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, these films will take you on a journey through the streets of Sydney, capturing its essence and leaving you with a lasting impression. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Sydney films as you discover the best of what this vibrant city has to offer.
