As the entertainment capital and the heart of global cinematic culture, it’s almost impossible to think of movies that haven’t been filmed in the city. However, despite the variety of movie sets and locations around town, not all films (logically) do justice to the City of Angels. In this article, we’ll look back at the best films where Los Angeles itself takes center stage and that made a lasting impact on culture.
1. Rebel Without a Cause (1955)
This iconic film follows Jim Stark (James Dean), a troubled teenager, navigating life and rebellion in Los Angeles. Set against the backdrop of the city’s vibrant yet gritty landscape, it highlights the struggles of youth and identity. One of the most memorable scenes takes place at the Griffith Observatory, a location that has since become a tribute to James Dean with a sculpture in his honor, cementing the film’s lasting connection to L.A.
2. La La Land (2016)
This groundbreaking musical, starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling, captures the dreams and struggles of two aspiring artists in Los Angeles, blending romance with the pursuit of artistic ambition. La La Land is celebrated for showcasing some of the most beautiful images of the city, from the iconic Santa Monica Pier to the charming Lighthouse Café. As one of the most beloved movies about Los Angeles, La La Land paints a vibrant picture of the city’s energy and allure, making it an unforgettable tribute to L.A.’s magic.
3. Chinatown (1974)
This classic neo-noir film delves into corruption, water rights, and deception in the 1930s Los Angeles. Starring Jack Nicholson as a private detective, the film captures the city’s gritty, mysterious side. With its haunting portrayal of L.A.’s urban landscape and the landmark setting of the Los Angeles River, Chinatown remains a significant film in the portrayal of L.A.’s darker underbelly, offering a timeless glimpse into the city’s history and its hidden truths.
4. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019)
Quentin Tarantino’s nostalgic journey through 1969 Los Angeles blends Hollywood’s golden age with its fading glamour. The film offers stunning visuals of the city, including the iconic Sunset Boulevard and the recreated Hollywood Hills. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and Margot Robbie, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood boasts a star-studded cast and serves as a love letter to a bygone era of the city and its Hollywood mystique.
5. L.A. Confidential (1997)
Set in 1950s Los Angeles, L.A. Confidential dives into a world of corruption, crime, and betrayal within the city’s police force. Starring Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, and Kim Basinger, the film’s gritty portrayal of L.A., with its glitzy yet dark undercurrents, reflects the city’s complex duality. With its sharp storytelling and noir atmosphere, it remains one of the defining movies about Los Angeles, showcasing both its glamorous and seedy sides.
6. Mulholland Drive (2001)
David Lynch’s Mulholland Drive weaves a surreal and haunting narrative through the dark corners of Los Angeles. Set against the winding, mysterious roads of Mulholland Drive, the film delves into the dreams and disillusionment of Hollywood, featuring standout performances by Naomi Watts and Laura Harring. The eerie, dream-like quality of the film reflects the city’s paradoxical allure and the unsettling side of fame and identity in L.A.
7. Clueless (1995)
A modern adaptation of Emma set in Beverly Hills, Clueless follows the life of Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone), a fashionable and well-meaning teenager navigating high school life. The film is a humorous, lighthearted portrayal of L.A.’s upscale, teen-driven culture, with iconic scenes set against the glitzy backdrop of the city’s high-end malls, Beverly Hills, and sprawling estates. Clueless remains a beloved snapshot of ’90s L.A.
8. The Big Lebowski (1998)
While not a traditional L.A. film, The Big Lebowski captures the eccentric spirit of Los Angeles through the adventures of Jeff “The Dude” Lebowski (Jeff Bridges). The film’s portrayal of the city’s diverse, laid-back culture, from bowling alleys to the neon-lit streets, brings out the quirky side of the city. It remains a cult classic, celebrated for its unique take on the city’s offbeat vibe.
9. Heat (1995)
Michael Mann’s Heat delves into the world of crime and the complex relationship between a relentless detective and a master thief, brought to life by the legendary Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. Set against the sprawling urban landscape of Los Angeles, the film’s epic heist sequences and dramatic shootouts highlight the city’s contrasts: from its polished downtown to its quiet, secluded streets, capturing the tense energy of its underworld.
10. Speed (1994)
In Speed, L.A. becomes the high-speed battleground for a young S.W.A.T officer (Keanu Reeves) racing against time to stop a bomb on a city bus, with the help of a fiery passenger called Annie (Sandra Bullock). The film’s action-packed scenes, including thrilling chases through the city’s busy streets and landmarks, showcase the city’s adrenaline-fueled atmosphere. Speed cemented L.A. as the perfect setting for heart-pounding action and fast-paced excitement.