Guide to NYC Movies
The essential movies that take place in “The Big Apple”.
Whether you love it or hate it, most can agree that New York City is perhaps the most iconic place in the world. It’s a melting pot of cultures that perfectly encapsulates the best and worst parts of American society. So it’s no wonder that so many movies utilize it as not only a setting but a character itself. Some of the greatest films of all time were set in NYC, and so I decided to layout a guide by genre for those who want to explore some of the best movies to call NYC home.
Drama/Thriller
Goodfellas (1990)
Much of this article could consist just of Martin Scorsese's filmography, and for good reason. Goodfellas is his magnum opus, and the one I would recommend most people trying to get into his work. It’s a charming yet violent look into the world of the Mafia, and we witness it through the POV of the likable anti-hero Henry Hill. Set in the New York of the 1960s/70s, the highlight is the single take tracking shot of the legendary Copacabana nightclub where Henry impresses his future bride Karen.
The Godfather (1972)
Speaking of Mafia films, none is greater than Francis Ford Coppola’s The Godfather. Often cited as the greatest movie ever made, The Godfather is the perfect combination of a legendary cast, an iconic soundtrack, and beautiful cinematography. Michael Corleone’s ascension to power is long but very rewarding, and it’s soaked in an endearing 1940s New York aesthetic.
Do the Right Thing (1989)
Set on the hottest day of the summer in Brooklyn, Do the Right Thing puts the dynamics of racism, stereotypes, and identity to the forefront. It’s a not-so-subtle but necessary jab at race relations in a diverse community and mixes it so seamlessly with comedy. This movie put Spike Lee on the map, and it still remains one of the most relevant and contentious films ever.
Black Swan (2010)
Natalie Portman is a force in this psychological thriller that follows a New York City ballerina’s descent into madness. It’s a dark film that keeps you guessing on what’s real and what’s a hallucination, as our protagonist loses her grip on reality in the midst of insane pressure. Black Swan is both disturbing and beautiful at once, and its ending will leave you shocked.
American Psycho (2000)
A satire on the culture of Wall Street, along with a commentary on insecurity and materialism, American Psycho is truly a one-of-a-kind film. Patrick Bateman is a character so ridiculous, which makes it all the more horrifying that he is simply a representation of the worst of a “yuppie” culture that still exists in NYC to this day. Despite being a bloody affair, it is darkly humorous and extremely quotable.
More NYC Drama/Thrillers to watch: Dog Day Afternoon (1975), The Godfather Part 2 (1974), Midnight Cowboy (1969), Rear Window (1954), The Wolf of Wall Street (2013), Taxi Driver (1976), Kids (1995), Uncut Gems (2019).
Comedy
The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984)
The Muppets will always be timeless and are fun for both children and adults. This film sees the gang try to bring their show to Broadway, and from there hilarity ensues. It’s a wholesome look into a typically gritty city, and a great movie to watch when you need to lift your spirits. It’s also the final Muppets film released before creator Jim Henson’s death.
Elf (2003)
Quite possibly the best Christmas movie ever, Elf is an oddball gem of a film that remains as magical today as it did when I was a child. It’s a fish out of water tale that brings an adopted elf from the North Pole to the Big Apple in search of his birth parents. It has a lot of heart, and the chemistry between Buddy the elf and his newly found friends and family make this worth the watch.
Frances Ha (2012)
Maybe the most relatable film on this list, Frances Ha is about a 20 something-year-old who is struggling with achieving her dreams in the big city. Director Noah Baumbach has a penchant for writing realistic dialogue, and he continues that trend here delivering a movie that’s equal parts funny and sad. The film is shot in black and white is also a nice touch that separates the film from the rest of the pack.
Ghostbusters (1984)
Everyone knows Ghostbusters, and even if you haven’t seen the movie, then you have most certainly heard the theme song. This story of a group of scientists starting a ghost-catching business in New York City is a fun ride complete with jokes, action, and a few scares. It holds up really well to this day and is perfect to watch with the family.
Coming to America (1988)
With the recent release of its sequel, Coming to America is now being introduced to a whole new generation. The hijinks of Prince Akeem and his sidekick Semmi in Queens are beyond memorable, and it would be impossible to not crack a smile throughout the entire movie. The entire premise of African royalty looking for his bride to be in NYC is just so wholesome and endearing, and the entire cast is filled with hilarious characters.
More NYC Comedies to watch: Big (1998), Home Alone 2 (1992), Men in Black (1997), The Devil Wears Prada (2006), Night at the Museum (2006), On the Rocks (2020).
Romance
West Side Story (1961)
A rendition of Romeo and Juliet set in the Upper West Side of NYC in the 1960’s, West Side Story might be the most iconic musical film ever. It’s bursting with personality, and you can see the influence its had on movies today. The dancing and singing is contagious, and you can’t help but have a good time when watching it.
Manhattan (1979)
This film is a love letter to the city itself, and it gives off a feeling of nostalgia even for us that didn’t grow up in NYC during this time. It’s a beautifully shot movie that combines comedy with its complicated romance.
If Beale Street Could Talk (2018)
If Beale Street Could Talk despite only coming out a few years ago is already a classic. Based on the James Baldwin novel, it’s a story of young love being undercut by injustice. Everything about this film on a technical level is a treat to the senses, from the gorgeous visuals to the wonderful soundtrack. This movie transports you back to 1970s Harlem effortlessly.
When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Carried by the amazing chemistry between its two leads, When Harry Met Sally is a sweet and funny movie that touches upon a real issue between many friends. It’s not a movie of grand scope, but its intimate moments feel real, and you can’t help but enjoy every minute of it.
Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
Despite the controversy surrounding it, Breakfast at Tiffany’s is still undeniably a stylish, hilarious, and charming film. Audrey Hepburn is an icon, and her charisma is infectious. It is an interesting portrait of New York City in the early 1960’s. And the story of the young woman falling for the struggling writer is timeless.
More NYC Romances to watch: Brooklyn (2015), Moonstruck (1987), The Apartment (1960), Annie Hall (1977), Two Lovers (2008).
Action
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
Into the Spider-Verse was the biggest movie surprise of 2018 for me. It not only was something completely unique, but it was just an amazing film from start to finish. The visuals were striking, the action was exciting, and people are still singing the soundtrack to this day. Animated NYC has never looked this good before.
Escape from New York (1981)
A science fiction film set in a dystopian future in which Manhattan has been converted into a maximum-security prison, Escape from New York is an oddball action thrill ride that’s worth the watch. Kurt Russell is iconic as our eye-patched protagonist, and his mission to retrieve the President is paved with blood.
The Warriors (1979)
The Warriors is a weird movie looking back at it today. But despite its cheesy dialogue, oddly choreographed fight scenes, and stilted acting, The Warriors is a legendary NYC film. It’s a story about a street gang fighting their way through the boroughs of New York City back to their turf of Coney Island. The costumes, the shots of NYC, and some of the greatest quotes in movie history still make this a must-watch.
Léon: The Professional (1994)
There aren’t many cooler movie protagonists than Léon, and this film about an assassin acting as a father figure towards a neglected child is both exciting, wholesome, and tragic. The action sequences here are loud and stylized, and the final confrontation is still one of the best put to film. This was also one of Natalie Portman’s first big movies, so it’s interesting to watch her before she became the mega star she is today.
Cloverfield (2008)
That iconic image of the Statue of Liberty decapitated is one that sticks with its viewers to this day. Cloverfield is found footage action-horror done right, and its fast past anxiety-ridden scenes feel authentic. As a giant monster rampages through the streets of New York, its citizens are left helpless and we as an audience can feel their panic.
Other NYC Action Movies to watch: Spiderman 2 (2004), The Taking of the Pelham One Two Three (1974), Shaft (1971), Rumble in the Bronx (1995), The French Connection (1971), Inside Man (2006).
Closing Thoughts
While it’s impossible to talk about every New York-based film, I believe this list is a good jumping-off point for those interested in movies taking place in NYC. I’d love to hear everyone’s thoughts on some of these films, and if I missed one of your favorites then I’d appreciate your input.
-Malik Bellamy
