Dive into the Silver Screen: Movies Filmed in Key West, Florida
Hello there, movie buffs and Key West enthusiasts! Buckle up as we embark on a cinematic journey through the tropical paradise that is Key West, Florida. This vibrant island city has served as a stunning backdrop for numerous films, and today, we're going to shine a spotlight on some of the most iconic movies filmed in Key West. So grab your popcorn, and let's dive right in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and movies filmed in key west florida.
The Most Famous: "Key Largo"
We can't start this list without mentioning the movie that put Key West on the Hollywood map. Key Largo, released in 1948, is a classic film noir directed by John Huston and starring Hollywood legends Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall. The movie is set in a Florida Keys hotel during a hurricane and features several Key West locations, such as the old Key West Lighthouse and the Southernmost Point Buoy.
Fun fact: The movie's title is a bit misleading. Although the story takes place in the Keys, the majority of the filming was done in California due to World War II travel restrictions.
The Cult Classic: "Key West"
In 1979, director Mike Sarne brought us Key West, a cult classic that captures the island's laid-back, bohemian spirit. This comedy-drama follows a group of eccentric characters, played by an ensemble cast including James Coburn, Harry Dean Stanton, and Belinda Bauer, as they navigate life, love, and the local color of Key West.
Did you know? The movie's soundtrack features several songs by Jimmy Buffett, who was a Key West resident at the time and went on to become a legendary musician.
**The Horror Flick: "The Deep""
If you're in the mood for something spooky, check out The Deep (1977), a horror-thriller directed by Peter Yates and starring Jacqueline Bisset and Nick Nolte. This underwater chiller is set in Key West and follows a couple who discover a sunken treasure while scuba diving, only to find themselves stalked by a monstrous creature.
Trivia time: The movie is based on a novel by Peter Benchley, who also wrote the bestseller "Jaws".
The Romantic Comedy: "License to Wed"
For a side-splitting romantic comedy, look no further than License to Wed (2007). This hilarious flick stars Mandy Moore and John Krasinski as a couple trying to get married in Key West, only to be thwarted by the local priest's unconventional premarital counseling. The movie features several iconic Key West locations, like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and the historic Key West Cemetery.
Did you know? The movie's title is a play on words, referencing both the couple's desire to get married and the fact that the priest is a former race car driver who holds a special "license" to perform weddings.
The Indie Gem: "Chappaquiddick"
While not entirely set in Key West, Chappaquiddick (2017) features several Key West locations and is worth a mention. This political drama, directed by John Curran and starring Jason Clarke, tells the true story of the 1969 car accident involving then-U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy and a young woman named Mary Jo Kopechne. The movie features several scenes shot in Key West, including the historic La Concha Hotel and the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy.
Fun fact: The movie's title refers to the island off the coast of Massachusetts where the tragic event took place. However, several key scenes were filmed in Key West due to its similar coastal atmosphere.
The Key West Film Festival
If you're a movie lover with a taste for the tropics, you might want to mark your calendar for the annual Key West Film Festival. This five-day event showcases independent films from around the world, with a special focus on films with ties to the Florida Keys. The festival takes place each November and offers a unique opportunity to watch movies under the stars in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable.
Did you know? The Key West Film Festival was founded in 2013 by local filmmakers and is now one of the most anticipated cultural events in the Florida Keys.
Visiting Key West: Movie Locations and More
If you're inspired to visit Key West after reading about these fantastic films, you're in for a treat. The island is home to a wealth of movie locations and iconic landmarks, from the Southernmost Point Buoy to the historic Key West Lighthouse. You can even take a self-guided Key West Movie Tour to visit some of the most famous filming locations from your favorite movies.
Pro tip: Be sure to check out the Key West Visitor Information Center for maps, guides, and insider tips on making the most of your island adventure.
So there you have it, folks! A cinematic tour through the tropical paradise of Key West, Florida. Whether you're a movie buff, a history buff, or just looking for a fun-filled vacation, there's always something exciting happening in this enchanting island city. So grab your sunscreen, your popcorn, and your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the magic of Key West for yourself.
Until next time, happy viewing, and safe travels!