Hotels often serve as more than just a place to stay; they can become iconic settings for some of the most memorable scenes in film history.
The ambiance, architecture, and unique characteristics of these hotels provide filmmakers with rich, atmospheric backdrops that enhance storytelling.
This article explores various movies shot in notable hotels, highlighting the significant role these locations play in the cinematic experience.
Rosewood London, England
Historical and Cinematic Significance
Rosewood London, a luxury 5-star hotel located at 252 High Holborn in the Covent Garden neighborhood, has a storied history and a reputation for elegance. Originally the headquarters of the Pearl Assurance Company, this Grade II listed building was transformed into a hotel in 2000. It became part of the Rosewood Hotels & Resorts in 2013 after extensive renovations.
Films Shot Here
- The Saint (1997): This action-adventure film, starring Val Kilmer, used Rosewood London as one of its key locations. The hotel’s grand Edwardian courtyard and opulent interiors provided a fitting backdrop for the film’s high-stakes drama.
- The Politician’s Wife (1995): This British television drama series also utilized the hotel for its sophisticated setting, aligning with the show’s themes of political intrigue and personal conflict.
- Masterchef: The Professionals (2010): The finale of this popular cooking competition was filmed at the hotel’s previous fine-dining restaurant, Pearl, showcasing the venue’s luxurious dining experience.
- Doctor Who: Attack of the Graske (2005): An online adventure game segment of this beloved sci-fi series features the hotel’s location, further cementing its place in pop culture.
The Plaza Hotel, New York, USA
An Iconic Landmark
The Plaza Hotel in New York City is synonymous with luxury and sophistication. Located at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, this historic hotel has been a fixture of New York City’s skyline since 1907. Its opulent interiors and grand architecture make it a favorite location for filmmakers.
Films Shot Here
- Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992): This family favorite sees young Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin, navigating the grandeur of The Plaza Hotel after being separated from his family. The hotel’s iconic lobby and luxurious suites play a significant role in the film.
- The Great Gatsby (2013): Baz Luhrmann’s adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel used The Plaza Hotel to represent the opulence and decadence of the Roaring Twenties. Key scenes set in the hotel’s lavish rooms capture the excess and drama of the era.
- North by Northwest (1959): Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller features The Plaza Hotel in its opening scenes, where Cary Grant’s character is mistaken for a spy, setting off a chain of dramatic events.
Park Hyatt Tokyo, Japan
Modern Elegance
The Park Hyatt Tokyo, located in the bustling Shinjuku district, is known for its sleek, modern design and panoramic views of the city. Opened in 1994, the hotel quickly became a symbol of contemporary luxury.
Films Shot Here
- Lost in Translation (2003): Sofia Coppola’s critically acclaimed film, starring Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson, was largely set in the Park Hyatt Tokyo. The hotel’s New York Grill & Bar and stunning views from the top floors play a central role in the film, providing an intimate backdrop for the characters’ evolving relationship.
Timberline Lodge, Oregon, USA
Historic and Haunting
Timberline Lodge, located on the slopes of Mount Hood in Oregon, is a historic hotel known for its rustic charm and dramatic mountain views. Built during the Great Depression, it has been a National Historic Landmark since 1977.
Films Shot Here
- The Shining (1980): Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s horror novel used Timberline Lodge for the exterior shots of the Overlook Hotel. The lodge’s imposing façade and remote location contribute to the film’s eerie atmosphere, making it one of the most iconic horror settings in cinema history.
The Beverly Hills Hotel, California, USA
Hollywood Glamour
The Beverly Hills Hotel, often referred to as “The Pink Palace,” has been an emblem of Hollywood glamour since its opening in 1912. Located on Sunset Boulevard, it has hosted countless celebrities and dignitaries over the years.
Films Shot Here
- The Graduate (1967): This classic film, starring Dustin Hoffman, features several scenes shot at The Beverly Hills Hotel. The hotel’s luxurious setting complements the film’s themes of affluence and seduction.
- Beverly Hills Cop (1984): Eddie Murphy’s character, Axel Foley, stays at the Beverly Hills Hotel in this action-comedy, adding to the film’s quintessentially Californian vibe.
Hotel del Coronado, California, USA
Victorian Charm
The Hotel del Coronado, located on Coronado Island in San Diego, is a historic beachfront hotel that has been operating since 1888. Known for its distinctive Victorian architecture, it is a popular filming location for its picturesque and unique charm.
Films Shot Here
- Some Like It Hot (1959): This classic comedy, starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon, used the Hotel del Coronado to represent the fictional “Seminole Ritz” in Florida. The hotel’s distinctive red turrets and beachfront setting are featured prominently in the film.
Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, USA
Casino and Luxury
Caesars Palace, located on the Las Vegas Strip, is a world-renowned luxury hotel and casino known for its Roman-themed architecture and lavish décor. It has been a symbol of Las Vegas extravagance since its opening in 1966.
Films Shot Here
- The Hangover (2009): This comedy blockbuster features Caesars Palace as the central setting for the protagonists’ wild and chaotic bachelor party. The hotel’s iconic fountains, casino, and suites are integral to the film’s plot.
- Rain Man (1988): The film’s memorable scenes, where Dustin Hoffman’s character showcases his card-counting skills, take place in the casino at Caesars Palace. The hotel’s grandeur enhances the drama and intensity of these scenes.
Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Michigan, USA
Historic Elegance
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is known for its Victorian-era charm and the world’s longest porch. Opened in 1887, it offers a step back in time with its historic décor and tranquil island setting.
Films Shot Here
- Somewhere in Time (1980): This romantic fantasy film, starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour, was filmed at the Grand Hotel. The hotel’s timeless elegance perfectly complements the film’s themes of love and time travel.
Conclusion
Hotels have long been favored by filmmakers for their unique ability to set the scene and enhance storytelling. From the grandeur of The Plaza Hotel to the eerie isolation of Timberline Lodge, these locations become characters in their own right, adding depth and context to the films they feature in. Whether providing a luxurious backdrop or a haunting setting, hotels continue to play a crucial role in the magic of cinema.
