NOLA on the Big Screen: A Guide to Movies Filmed in New Orleans

New Orleans, the Big Easy, has been the backdrop for numerous movies, both famous and obscure. Its unique architecture, rich history, and lively culture make it an ideal location for filmmakers. From musicals to horror films, the city has hosted a wide range of genres. Let’s take a look at some of the best movies filmed in New Orleans.

  1. Interview with the Vampire (1994)
    Based on the novel by Anne Rice, this gothic horror film follows the story of a vampire named Louis, who tells his life story to a reporter. Starring Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, and Kirsten Dunst, the film was a box office hit and was praised for its visuals.
  2. Ray (2004)
    This biographical film tells the story of the legendary musician Ray Charles. Jamie Foxx gives an incredible performance as Charles, and the movie won two Academy Awards.
  3. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)
    Starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett, this film is based on a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It tells the story of a man who ages backward. The movie was a critical and commercial success and won three Academy Awards.
  4. The Pelican Brief (1993)
    This political thriller, based on the novel by John Grisham, follows a law student and a reporter as they investigate the assassinations of two Supreme Court justices. The movie stars Julia Roberts and Denzel Washington and was a box office hit.
  5. A Streetcar Named Desire (1951)
    Starring Marlon Brando and Vivien Leigh, this movie is based on the play by Tennessee Williams. It tells the story of a fading southern belle who moves in with her sister and her brutish husband. The film was a critical and commercial success and won four Academy Awards.
  1. 12 Years a Slave (2013)
    This historical drama is based on the memoir of Solomon Northup, a free black man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery. Starring Chiwetel Ejiofor and Lupita Nyong’o, the movie was critically acclaimed and won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
  2. Easy Rider (1969)
    This classic road movie follows two bikers as they travel from Los Angeles to New Orleans. Starring Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper, the movie is a countercultural classic and was a huge box office success.
  3. The Princess and the Frog (2009)
    This animated musical, set in New Orleans, tells the story of Tiana, a young woman who dreams of opening her own restaurant. Featuring the voices of Anika Noni Rose and Bruno Campos, the movie was a critical and commercial success.
  4. Girls Trip (2017)
    This comedy follows four friends who travel to New Orleans for the Essence Festival. Starring Queen Latifah, Jada Pinkett Smith, Regina Hall, and Tiffany Haddish, the movie was a box office hit and received positive reviews.

New Orleans has always been a popular location for filmmakers, and these movies are just a small selection of the many great films that have been made in the city. From horror to comedy to drama, New Orleans has seen it all. So the next time you visit the Big Easy, keep an eye out for some of the famous movie locations around town.