Oakland, California, a vibrant city located on the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay, has a rich cultural history and versatility that has made it a favorite for movie directors, TV show creators, and authors alike. From the bustling streets of downtown to the serene shores of Lake Merritt, Oakland provides a unique backdrop that has been captured in various forms of media over the years.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll journey through the famous films shot in Oakland, TV shows set in the city, and books that bring the city to life in their pages. We’ll also explore some of the places you can visit to see where these works were created, along with travel tips, trivia, and suggestions for your trip to Oakland, California.
Famous Films Shot in Oakland
Oakland’s diverse landscape and colorful neighborhoods have lured filmmakers for decades, making the city a star in its own right. Here are some notable films shot in Oakland that highlight the city’s charm and character:
1. “Moneyball” (2011): Directed by Bennett Miller, this film tells the true story of the Oakland Athletics baseball team’s 2002 season. The film features scenes shot in the Oakland Coliseum, the home of the Athletics.
2. “Fruitvale Station” (2013): A critically-acclaimed biographical drama directed by Oakland native Ryan Coogler, the film recreates the tragic events leading to the death of Oscar Grant at the Fruitvale BART station.
3. “Black Panther” (2018): Also directed by Ryan Coogler, this blockbuster from the Marvel Cinematic Universe starts and ends in Oakland, paying tribute to Coogler’s hometown.
4. “Blindspotting” (2018): This comedy-drama co-written and starring Oakland natives Daveed Diggs and Rafael Casal explores gentrification in Oakland. Various locations across the city, including West Oakland and downtown, feature prominently in the film.
5. “Sorry to Bother You” (2018): Directed by Oakland native Boots Riley, this absurdist dark comedy was filmed in various locations around Oakland, including the city’s iconic Grand Lake Theatre.
6. “The Kite Runner” (2007): While most of the movie was filmed in China, parts of the film were shot in Oakland, including scenes featuring the Caldecott Tunnel and Mountain View Cemetery.
7. “The Matrix Reloaded” (2003) and “The Matrix Revolutions” (2003): The freeway chase scene in “Reloaded” was filmed on a specially-constructed set in the decommissioned Naval Air Station in Alameda, near Oakland.
8. “Harold and Maude” (1971): This classic cult film shot scenes in the Mountain View Cemetery in Oakland, among other East Bay locations.
TV Shows Set in Oakland
Oakland’s rich cultural tapestry has made it a popular setting for TV shows. Here are a few that have showcased the city:
1. “Hanging with Mr. Cooper” (1992-1997): This popular sitcom from the ’90s, featuring Mark Curry as a former NBA player turned high school teacher, was set in Oakland.
2. “So I Married an Axe Murderer” (1993): Although largely set and filmed in San Francisco, several key scenes from this cult classic were filmed in Oakland.
3. “13 Reasons Why” (2017-2020): While not explicitly set in Oakland, this Netflix series was primarily filmed in the nearby town of Vallejo, and some scenes were shot in Oakland.
4. “Parenthood” (2010-2015): This NBC drama about the sprawling Braverman family was set and filmed in various locations around the East Bay, including Oakland.
5. “MythBusters” (2003–2018): The Discovery Channel show often filmed their experiments at the former Alameda Naval Air Station, located near Oakland.
Animated Films Set in Oakland
Oakland’s charm has also found its way into animated films and series. Here are some that have featured the city:
1. “Inside Out” (2015): This beloved Pixar film is set in San Francisco, but it starts with the main character Riley and her family moving from Minnesota to the Bay Area. In a poignant scene, they drive past the iconic Grand Lake Theater in Oakland.
2. “Coco” (2017): While the film takes place in Mexico, director Lee Unkrich, an Oakland resident, has stated that certain elements from Oakland’s Day of the Dead celebrations were incorporated into the film.
3. “Big Hero 6” (2014): This Disney film is set in the fictional city of San Fransokyo, a mashup of San Francisco and Tokyo. However, Oakland’s influence is seen in the character of Fred, whose mansion is based on the real-life Dunsmuir House in Oakland.
Famous Books Set in Oakland
Oakland’s literary scene is as vibrant as its film and TV industry, with numerous books set in the city. Here are some classic and contemporary novels that have captured the essence of Oakland:
Classic novels:
1. “The Maltese Falcon” by Dashiell Hammett: While most of this classic detective novel is set in San Francisco, some scenes take place in Oakland.
2. “There There” by Tommy Orange: This critically acclaimed novel tells the stories of twelve characters, all Native Americans living in Oakland.
3. “Telegraph Avenue” by Michael Chabon: This novel centers around two friends who own a used vinyl record store on the border of Berkeley and Oakland.
Contemporary novels:
1. “The Mars Room” by Rachel Kushner: This novel, shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize, features a protagonist who grew up in the rough neighborhoods of San Francisco and Oakland.
2. “All Involved” by Ryan Gattis: This novel is set during the 1992 Los Angeles riots, but one of the characters is from Oakland, and the city’s influence is felt throughout the book.
3. “Dealing in Dreams” by Lilliam Rivera: This dystopian novel, set in the future, features a gang leader who dreams of living in the mythical city of “Mega City Oakland.”
Exploring Oakland’s Filming Locations – Where to Go
If you’re visiting Oakland, there are several key filming locations you must explore to get a sense of the city’s cinematic history:
1. Oakland Coliseum: Featured in “Moneyball,” this is the home of the Oakland Athletics baseball team.
2. Fruitvale BART Station: This transit station was where Oscar Grant tragically lost his life, a story depicted in “Fruitvale Station.”
3. Grand Lake Theatre: A historic movie theater in Oakland, it’s featured in “Sorry to Bother You” and seen in “Inside Out.”
4. Mountain View Cemetery: This cemetery has been a filming location for numerous films, including “Harold and Maude” and “The Kite Runner.”
5. Former Alameda Naval Air Station: The location for the iconic freeway chase scene in “The Matrix Reloaded.”
Where to Sleep in Oakland
Oakland offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets. Here are some options:
Budget:
1. Jack London Inn: This budget-friendly hotel is located near Jack London Square, a vibrant waterfront area in Oakland.
2. Piedmont Place: This affordable motel offers clean and comfortable rooms.
3. Imperial Inn: This budget hotel, located in central Oakland, offers basic amenities and easy access to public transportation.
Luxury:
1. Claremont Club & Spa: This iconic luxury hotel, located in the Oakland Hills, offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
2. The Oakland Marriott City Center: This upscale hotel is located in the heart of downtown Oakland, close to many attractions.
3. Waterfront Hotel: Located in Jack London Square, this hotel offers a luxury stay with beautiful waterfront views.
Where to Eat in Oakland
Oakland’s culinary scene is diverse and vibrant. Here are some budget and luxury dining options in the city:
Budget:
1. Bakesale Betty: Known for its delicious fried chicken sandwiches, this eatery is a local favorite.
2. Champa Garden: This budget-friendly restaurant offers delicious Lao and Thai cuisine.
3. Tacos Sinaloa: This food truck serves some of the best tacos in Oakland.
Luxury:
1. Commis: This Michelin two-star restaurant offers a unique and luxurious dining experience.
2. The Wolf: This upscale restaurant offers modern Californian cuisine in a beautiful setting.
3. Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill: Located on the shores of Lake Merritt, this restaurant offers fine dining with stunning views.
Detailed Itinerary Day by Day
Here’s a suggested itinerary for exploring Oakland’s filming locations and more:
Day 1: Central Oakland
- Start your day at Lake Merritt, a beautiful urban lake located in the heart of Oakland.
- Visit the Grand Lake Theatre, featured in “Sorry to Bother You”.
- Have lunch at Bakesale Betty, a local favorite.
- Visit the Mountain View Cemetery, featured in “Harold and Maude”.
- End your day with dinner at The Wolf.
Day 2: East Oakland
- Begin your day with a visit to the Oakland Coliseum, featured in “Moneyball”.
- Head to the Fruitvale BART Station, the location of “Fruitvale Station”.
- Have lunch at Tacos Sinaloa.
- Visit the Dunsmuir House, the inspiration for Fred’s mansion in “Big Hero 6”.
- End your day with dinner at Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill.
Day 3: West Oakland and Alameda
- Start your day at the former Alameda Naval Air Station, the filming location for “The Matrix Reloaded”.
- Have lunch at Champa Garden.
- Spend the afternoon exploring Jack London Square, and check out the Jack London Inn.
- End your day with a luxurious dinner at Commis.
Local Legends and Curiosities
Oakland’s film industry has its share of local legends and curiosities:
- The Grand Lake Theatre, a local landmark, is known for its marquee messages, which often feature political statements or commentary on current events.
- The Dunsmuir House has a reputation for being haunted, adding to its appeal as a filming location.
- The Oakland Coliseum is not just a sports stadium and filming location, it’s also the site of several notable concerts, including performances by The Rolling Stones and U2.
Hidden Gems in Oakland
While Oakland’s iconic landmarks often steal the spotlight, there are also hidden gems worth exploring:
- The Morcom Rose Garden is a beautiful public garden that’s perfect for a peaceful stroll.
- The Cathedral of Christ the Light, with its modern architecture, offers a different kind of spiritual experience.
- The Chabot Space and Science Center, located in the Oakland Hills, offers stunning views of the city and the stars.
What to Pack for a Trip to Oakland
When packing for your trip to Oakland, consider the city’s Mediterranean climate, which features warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Regardless of when you visit, bring comfortable shoes for exploring filming locations on foot, and don’t forget to pack a camera to capture your cinematic adventure!
Transportation Tips
Getting around Oakland is relatively easy thanks to the city’s extensive public transportation network. The BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) system, buses, and ferries can take you to various parts of the city and beyond. Taxis and rideshares like Lyft and Uber are also available. If you prefer to drive, rental cars are available, but be aware that parking can be challenging in some areas.
Join us on this cinematic journey through Oakland, California, a city that has served as the backdrop for countless stories in films, TV shows, and books.
