Discover Cleveland through Media

With its diverse landscapes, stunning architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods, the city of Cleveland, Ohio, has been a beloved setting for numerous films, books, and TV series. Its unique charm and gritty character have attracted filmmakers and authors, leading to its appearance in a plethora of cinematic and literary works. From the iconic cityscape featured in “The Avengers” to the rustic charm of West Side Market in “The Fortune Cookie”, the city provides a rich tapestry of settings that have captivated audiences worldwide. In this comprehensive guide, we will take a cinematic journey through Cleveland, exploring 10 famous films, 5 TV shows set in the city, and a selection of both classic and contemporary books set here. So, pack your bags, put on your movie buff hat, and get ready to delve into the cinematic and literary landscape of Cleveland!

Movies Made in Cleveland: The Top 10

Cleveland has served as a backdrop for various film genres, from superhero blockbusters to romantic comedies. Let’s explore 10 famous films shot in Cleveland that have showcased this city’s unique charm and character:

1. “The Avengers” (2012): This superhero extravaganza, directed by Joss Whedon, features high-octane action sequences filmed in Cleveland’s Public Square and the Detroit-Superior Bridge, among other locations. The city’s East 9th Street was famously transformed into New York City for the film’s climactic battle scene.
2. “The Deer Hunter” (1978): This Oscar-winning drama, directed by Michael Cimino, was partially filmed in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood. Local landmarks, including Lemko Hall and St. Theodosius Russian Orthodox Cathedral, can be spotted in the film.
3. “A Christmas Story” (1983): Directed by Bob Clark, this beloved holiday classic was filmed at multiple locations around Cleveland, including the now-iconic “A Christmas Story House” in the city’s Tremont area.
4. “The Fortune Cookie” (1966): This comedy-drama, directed by Billy Wilder, features scenes shot in Cleveland’s Municipal Stadium and the West Side Market. It was the first film to feature the dynamic duo of Jack Lemmon and Walter Matthau.
5. “American Splendor” (2003): This biographical comedy-drama, directed by Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini, is based on the life of Cleveland native and comic book writer Harvey Pekar. The film features various locations around the city, including the Cleveland Institute of Art.
6. “Draft Day” (2014): This sports drama, directed by Ivan Reitman, stars Kevin Costner as the General Manager of the Cleveland Browns. The film features numerous shots of Cleveland, including the Browns’ training facility in Berea and the team’s home stadium.
7. “Light of Day” (1987): Directed by Paul Schrader, this drama about a struggling rock band was filmed in several Cleveland neighborhoods, including Collinwood and Euclid Beach.
8. “Welcome to Collinwood” (2002): This crime-comedy, directed by Anthony and Joe Russo (yes, the same Russo brothers who later directed “The Avengers”), is set in the Collinwood neighborhood of Cleveland.
9. “Kill the Irishman” (2011): This biographical crime film, directed by Jonathan Hensleigh, is based on the life of Irish-American mobster Danny Greene, who rose to power in Cleveland in the 1970s.
10. “Take Shelter” (2011): This psychological thriller, directed by Jeff Nichols, was filmed in various locations in Ohio, including the towns of Grafton, LaGrange, and Elyria in the Greater Cleveland area.

Cleveland on the Small Screen: Top 5 TV Shows

Cleveland’s charm is not just limited to the big screen. The city has also featured in several TV shows, adding a dose of realism and authenticity to the small screen narratives. Here are 5 TV shows set in Cleveland that have utilized the city’s diverse settings:

1. “Hot in Cleveland” (2010-2015): This TV Land sitcom, starring Betty White, is set in Cleveland and showcases the city’s warmth and friendliness.
2. “The Drew Carey Show” (1995-2004): Set in Cleveland, this sitcom stars Drew Carey as a fictionalized version of himself, working in a department store in the city.
3. “Crisis Center” (1997): This short-lived drama series was set and filmed in Cleveland. It showcased the city’s medical facilities and healthcare professionals.
4. “Harvey Pekar’s American Splendor” (2001): Based on the comic series of the same name, this animated show is set in Cleveland and follows the life of Harvey Pekar.
5. “Cleveland Hustles” (2016): This reality show, produced by Cleveland-born NBA star LeBron James, focuses on revitalizing local neighborhoods in the city.

Animated Films Set in Cleveland

Cleveland’s vibrant cityscape and diverse neighborhoods have also attracted animators. Here are 5 animated films set in Cleveland that have beautifully captured the city’s charm:

1. “The Cleveland Show” (2009-2013): This spin-off from “Family Guy”, though not technically a film, deserves a special mention. The show is set in the fictional suburb of Stoolbend, Virginia, but its protagonist, Cleveland Brown, is a proud native of Cleveland, Ohio, and the city is often referenced in the series.
2. “Rock Dog” (2016): This Chinese-American animated film, directed by Ash Brannon, features a character called “Cleveland”, a drummer who is named after the city.
3. “Howard the Duck” (1986): Although not fully animated, this comic science fiction film features a talking anthropomorphic duck from a parallel universe who ends up in Cleveland.
4. “Antz” (1998): This animated adventure features a line where Z, the protagonist ant, says he feels “just like a tiny insignificant speck”, to which Weaver, his friend, responds, “You’re not from Cleveland, are you?”
5. “The Wild” (2006): This animated adventure-comedy film has a scene where a group of wildebeests claim that they’re going to rule the zoo, the wild, and “even Cleveland”.

Famous Books Set in Cleveland: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary

From classic to contemporary literature, Cleveland has been a setting for numerous compelling narratives. Let’s look at 3 classic and 3 contemporary famous books set in Cleveland that have provided readers with an immersive view of the city:

Classic Novels

1. “Native Son” by Richard Wright: This classic novel, published in 1940, is partially set in Cleveland. The story follows Bigger Thomas, a poor, uneducated African American man, who is involved in a violent crime.
2. “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison: Set in Lorain, near Cleveland, this debut novel by Nobel laureate Toni Morrison is a poignant narrative about a young African American girl who yearns for blue eyes, symbolic of white beauty standards.
3. “The Man from Primrose Lane” by James Renner: This mystery novel, set in West Akron near Cleveland, intricately combines true crime, science fiction, and horror elements.

Contemporary Novels

1. “Little Fires Everywhere” by Celeste Ng: This best-selling novel, set in the upscale suburb of Shaker Heights, Cleveland, explores the intricacies of family dynamics, motherhood, and the danger of secrets. The book was recently adapted into a successful Hulu series.
2. “The Turner House” by Angela Flournoy: This National Book Award finalist is set in Detroit, but the matriarch of the family, Viola Turner, moves to Cleveland to live with her son.
3. “Ohio” by Stephen Markley: This contemporary novel, although set in a fictional town called New Canaan, is based on the author’s experiences growing up in rural Ohio, not far from Cleveland. It provides a raw and intimate insight into post-industrial small-town America.

Exploring Cleveland’s Filming Locations: Where to Go

Cleveland’s cinematic appeal lies not just in its iconic landmarks but also in its lesser-known locales that have been featured in numerous films. Here are some key places to visit when exploring Cleveland’s filming locations:

1. A Christmas Story House: Located in the Tremont neighborhood, this restored house was the main filming location for the holiday classic “A Christmas Story”. It’s now a museum that draws fans from around the globe.
2. Cleveland Public Square: This downtown space has been a filming location for several films, including “The Avengers” and “Captain America: The Winter Soldier”. The square, with its majestic statue of city founder Moses Cleaveland, offers a vibrant urban setting.
3. West Side Market: Cleveland’s oldest publicly owned market was featured in “The Fortune Cookie”. Its iconic clock tower and bustling market stalls offer a truly authentic Cleveland experience.
4. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: This iconic museum celebrating the history of rock music was a filming location for “This is Spinal Tap”. Its sleek, pyramid-like structure is a must-see for music and architecture lovers alike.
5. Cleveland Museum of Art: Featured in “The Soloist”, this museum boasts an extensive collection of artworks from around the world. Its beautiful interiors and exteriors offer a sense of sophistication and culture.

Where to Sleep in Cleveland: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options

Whether you’re a budget traveler or seeking luxury accommodation, Cleveland has you covered. Here are three budget and three luxury options for where to sleep in Cleveland:

Budget:

1. Hostel Cleveland: Located in downtown Cleveland, this budget-friendly accommodation offers dormitory-style rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
2. Tru By Hilton Cleveland Midtown: This affordable hotel offers comfortable rooms and is conveniently located near the Cleveland Clinic and Case Western Reserve University.
3. The Cleveland Hostel: Located in the Ohio City neighborhood, this hostel offers private and shared rooms. It’s close to the West Side Market, making it a great spot for foodies.

Luxury:

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland: This luxury hotel, located in downtown Cleveland, offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant with panoramic city views.
2. InterContinental Cleveland: This luxury hotel is located in the city’s cultural hub, offering easy access to the Cleveland Museum of Art and Severance Hall.
3. Kimpton Schofield Hotel: Located in a landmark building in downtown Cleveland, this luxury boutique hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities.

Where to Eat in Cleveland: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options

Cleveland’s food scene is as diverse as its film locations. Here are three budget and three luxury options for where to eat in Cleveland:

Budget:

1. West Side Market Cafe: Located in the historic West Side Market, this cafe offers hearty breakfast and lunch options at affordable prices.
2. Happy Dog: This local favorite offers gourmet hot dogs with a choice of 50 different toppings. It’s a budget-friendly spot for a quick, delicious meal.
3. Pho Thang Cafe: For a taste of Vietnamese cuisine, head to this budget-friendly restaurant. They offer a variety of pho, noodle dishes, and more.

Luxury:

1. Lola Bistro: Owned by celebrity chef Michael Symon, this high-end restaurant serves creative American cuisine in a stylish setting.
2. Pier W: Known for its seafood, this restaurant offers beautiful views of Lake Erie. The menu is a bit pricey, but the food and views are worth it.
3. Edwins Restaurant: This upscale French restaurant is unique as it’s also a culinary institute that trains formerly incarcerated adults. The food is exquisite, and you’ll be supporting a good cause.

Detailed Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Guide to Exploring Cleveland’s Filming Locations

Day 1: Downtown Cleveland

Start your day at the Cleveland Public Square, featured in “The Avengers”. From there, walk to the nearby Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a filming location for “This is Spinal Tap”. After lunch, head to the Great Lakes Science Center, which was featured in “A Christmas Story”. End your day with a dinner at Lola Bistro.

Day 2: University Circle and Little Italy

Begin your day at the Cleveland Museum of Art, a filming location for “The Soloist”. From there, head to the nearby Severance Hall, which was featured in “Air Force One”. After lunch in Little Italy, visit Lake View Cemetery, which was a filming location for “Captain America: The Winter Soldier”. End your day with dinner at the luxurious Pier W.

Day 3: West Side and Ohio City

Start your day at the West Side Market, featured in “The Fortune Cookie”. From there, visit the nearby Christmas Story House in Tremont. After lunch at the West Side Market Cafe, head to Edgewater Park, which was a filming location for “The Deer Hunter”. End your day with dinner at the Happy Dog.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities about Cleveland’s Film Industry

Cleveland’s film industry has some intriguing legends and curiosities. For example, the house used in “A Christmas Story” is now a museum dedicated to the film, and fans can stay overnight in the third-floor loft.

Another curiosity involves the film “Howard the Duck”. The infamous flop was originally meant to be an animated film set in Cleveland, but it was eventually made into a live-action film due to a contract issue.

In terms of cryptids, or mythical creatures, Ohio has its share of legends. The most famous is the Ohio Grassman, a Bigfoot-like creature reported in Eastern Ohio. While not directly related to Cleveland’s film industry, these legends add a touch of mystery and intrigue to the state’s cultural folklore.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Filming Locations in Cleveland

While Cleveland’s famous landmarks are well-known filming locations, the city also has several hidden gems that have been featured in films:

1. Cleveland Grays Armory Museum: This historic building, featured in “The Deer Hunter”, is one of the oldest standing buildings in downtown Cleveland.
2. Sokolowski’s University Inn: This local eatery, featured in “The Deer Hunter”, is Cleveland’s oldest family-owned restaurant.
3. The Agora Theatre and Ballroom: This concert club and theatre, featured in “Light of Day”, is a historic venue that has hosted many famous musicians.

What to Pack for a Trip to Cleveland

When packing for a trip to Cleveland, consider the city’s weather. Summers are typically warm and humid, while winters can be very cold and snowy. Therefore, packing layers is essential. Also, comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the city’s filming locations. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture your own cinematic shots of the city!

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Cleveland

Cleveland has an extensive public transportation system, which includes buses, trolleys, and a rail system known as The Rapid. For exploring filming locations, consider purchasing an All-Day Pass for unlimited travel on these services. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. If you prefer to drive, keep in mind that parking in the downtown area can be expensive.

Conclusion

Cleveland, with its rich history and diverse urban landscape, offers a fascinating journey through the world of film, TV, and literature. From its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems, the city is a living movie set waiting to be explored. So whether you’re a film buff, an avid reader, or simply a curious traveler, Cleveland promises an unforgettable cinematic journey