With its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and scenic beauty, Port-au-Prince, the capital city of Haiti, has always been a fascinating destination for filmmakers. From classic movies to contemporary TV shows, the city’s charm has been beautifully captured on screen. This comprehensive guide will take you on a cinematic journey through Port-au-Prince, exploring the city’s famous filming locations, literary inspirations, and much more.
8 Famous Films Shot in Port-au-Prince
Port-au-Prince’s unique blend of urban life, rich history, and natural beauty has made it a go-to location for many filmmakers. Let’s explore eight famous films shot in this captivating city:
- “The Comedians” (1967): Based on the novel by Graham Greene, this political drama set in Haiti’s troubled times beautifully captures the essence of Port-au-Prince.
- “Live and Let Die” (1973): This James Bond film features a thrilling boat chase scene filmed in the picturesque harbor of Port-au-Prince.
- “Ghost of Cité Soleil” (2006): This documentary film provides a gritty, realistic depiction of life in Port-au-Prince’s notorious slum, Cité Soleil.
- “Egalité for All: Toussaint Louverture and the Haitian Revolution” (2009): This historical documentary explores the life of Haitian revolutionary leader Toussaint Louverture, with key scenes shot in Port-au-Prince.
- “Moloch Tropical” (2009): Set in a fortress atop a hill in Port-au-Prince, this film offers a critical look at the political landscape of Haiti.
- “Toussaint Louverture” (2012): This French television film, based on the life of the Haitian revolutionary, features many scenes shot in and around Port-au-Prince.
- “Murder in Pacot” (2014): This drama, set in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake, captures the resilience and spirit of the people of Port-au-Prince.
- “I Am Not Your Negro” (2016): This Oscar-nominated documentary about the life of writer James Baldwin includes scenes shot in Port-au-Prince, where Baldwin spent some time in the 1950s.
5 TV Shows Set in Port-au-Prince
The allure of Port-au-Prince extends beyond the silver screen. Here are five TV shows that have used the city as a backdrop:
- “Crossbones” (2014): This NBC series, although set on the island of New Providence in the Bahamas, filmed several scenes in Port-au-Prince.
- “Clairvius” (2019-present): This Haitian television drama series, set and shot in Port-au-Prince, explores the life of a man who returns home after being declared dead.
- “Black and White” (2020-present): This crime drama series, set in Port-au-Prince, follows the life of a detective as he navigates the city’s criminal underworld.
- “Ayiti Mon Amour” (2021): This upcoming miniseries, set five years after the 2010 earthquake, is filmed entirely in Port-au-Prince.
- “The Witch of the Caribbean” (2021): This fantasy series, while primarily set on a fictional Caribbean island, features several scenes filmed in Port-au-Prince.
Animated Films Set in Port-au-Prince
The charm of Port-au-Prince isn’t limited to live-action films and TV shows. The city’s vibrant culture and scenic beauty have also served as inspiration for animated films:
- “Woubi Cheri” (1998): This French animated documentary about the LGBTQ+ community in Ivory Coast features a segment set in Port-au-Prince.
- “Pigs of Port-au-Prince” (2009): This animated short film offers a satirical take on the politics of Haiti, with Port-au-Prince as the main backdrop.
- “Moloch Tropical” (2009): An animated segment in this live-action film depicts a traditional Haitian legend, set in the hills of Port-au-Prince.
- “The Princess and the Frog” (2009): Although the film is set in New Orleans, the character of Dr. Facilier, the voodoo sorcerer, is implied to be from Haiti, with several references to Port-au-Prince.
Famous Books Set in Port-au-Prince: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary
Port-au-Prince has been a muse not only for filmmakers but also for authors. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in this vibrant city:
Classic:
- “The Comedians” by Graham Greene – This political novel set in Haiti during the rule of Franí§ois “Papa Doc” Duvalier captures the tension and fear in Port-au-Prince.
- “The Black Sun” by Léon-Franí§ois Hoffmann – This novel offers a vivid depiction of life in Port-au-Prince in the early 20th century.
- “Masters of the Dew” by Jacques Roumain – Although primarily set in rural Haiti, this classic novel includes some crucial scenes in Port-au-Prince.
Contemporary:
- “An Unbroken Agony” by Randall Robinson – This non-fiction book offers a comprehensive account of the 2004 coup in Haiti, with a focus on events in Port-au-Prince.
- “The Dew Breaker” by Edwidge Danticat – This collection of interconnected stories set in Haiti and the United States includes several tales set in Port-au-Prince.
- “God Loves Haiti” by Dimitry Elias Léger – This poignant novel, set in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake, captures the resilience of the people of Port-au-Prince.
Exploring Port-au-Prince Filming Locations – Where to Go
If you’re planning a visit to Port-au-Prince, here are some essential filming locations to explore:
- National Palace – Featured in “The Comedians” and “Murder in Pacot,” this was the official residence of the President of Haiti until it was destroyed in the 2010 earthquake.
- Iron Market – A central location in “Live and Let Die,” this iconic market is one of the main attractions in Port-au-Prince.
- Hotel Oloffson – Featured in “The Comedians,” this historic hotel offers a glimpse into the city’s past.
- Cité Soleil – Although a visit to this area requires caution due to safety concerns, it’s a key location in “Ghost of Cité Soleil.”
- Fort Jacques – Located on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince, this historic fort, featured in “Moloch Tropical,” offers stunning views of the city.
Where to Sleep in Port-au-Prince: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options
Port-au-Prince offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets. Here are three budget-friendly and three luxury options:
Budget:
- Palm Inn Hotel – A budget-friendly hotel offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
- Pacot Breeze Hotel – A budget option offering basic amenities and a quiet location.
- Le Plaza Hotel – This budget hotel is located in the heart of the city, close to key attractions.
Luxury:
- Hotel Montana – This luxury hotel offers stunning views of the city and the bay.
- Hotel El Rancho – A luxury option offering spacious rooms and a large pool.
- Marriott Port-au-Prince Hotel – This international chain offers luxury accommodation in the city.
Where to Eat in Port-au-Prince: 3 Budget and 3 Luxury Options
Port-au-Prince offers a variety of dining options, from budget-friendly eateries to high-end restaurants:
Budget:
- Lakou Breda – A budget-friendly restaurant offering delicious Haitian cuisine.
- Epi d’Or – This budget eatery is known for its tasty sandwiches and pastries.
- Samaritan’s Purse Cafe – A budget café offering a range of sandwiches, salads, and drinks.
Luxury:
- La Plantation – This upscale restaurant offers a mix of Haitian and international cuisine.
- Magdoos – A luxury Lebanese restaurant offering delicious Middle Eastern dishes.
- Quartier Latin – This high-end restaurant offers a fusion of Haitian and international cuisines.
Detailed Itinerary: Day by Day
Experience the cinematic charm of Port-au-Prince with this five-day itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival and City Tour
Arrive in Port-au-Prince and settle into your hotel. Begin your tour with a visit to the Iron Market, a filming location for “Live and Let Die.” End your day with a visit to the Hotel Oloffson, featured in “The Comedians.”
Day 2: Historical Landmarks
Visit the National Palace and Fort Jacques, both featured in several films. Spend the evening exploring the vibrant nightlife of Port-au-Prince.
Day 3: Cultural Exploration
Visit the Musée du Panthéon National Haí¯tien, featured in several documentaries. In the evening, enjoy a performance at the Théí¢tre National, a popular filming location.
Day 4: Scenic Beauty
Take a short trip to the outskirts of Port-au-Prince to explore the scenic beauty of the region, featured in several films. Return to the city for a delicious meal at one of the city’s luxury restaurants.
Day 5: Departure
Spend your last day in Port-au-Prince exploring the local markets and collecting souvenirs. Depart with beautiful memories of your cinematic journey through the city.
Cryptid Legends and Curiosities
Port-au-Prince, like any other city, has its share of urban legends and mysteries. One of the most famous is the legend of the “Lougarou,” the Haitian version of the werewolf. Stories of the Lougarou have been passed down through generations and have inspired several films and books.
Hidden Gems in Port-au-Prince
Apart from the well-known landmarks, Port-au-Prince also boasts several lesser-known spots that are worth exploring:
- Musée d’Art Haí¯tien – This museum houses a stunning collection of Haitian art, making it a hidden gem for art lovers.
- Observatoire de Boutilliers – Offering panoramic views of Port-au-Prince, this observatory is a hidden gem for photographers and nature lovers.
- Parc de Martissant – This urban park, located in the neighborhood of Martissant, is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Trip: What to Pack, How to Dress
When packing for your trip to Port-au-Prince, consider the tropical climate and the activities you plan to do. Pack lightweight clothing, a good pair of walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen), and a light rain jacket or umbrella for unexpected showers. Don’t forget your camera to capture your own cinematic memories!
Transportation Tips
Getting around Port-au-Prince can be done by car, taxi, or “tap-tap” (local shared taxi). While driving can be challenging due to traffic and road conditions, taxis and tap-taps are affordable options. For longer distances, consider hiring a driver or guide.
Documents Needed
Ensure you have the following documents for your trip:
- Passport: Must be valid for six months beyond your planned departure date.
- Visa: Check with the Haitian Embassy or Consulate in your country to see if you need a visa.
- Travel Insurance: Recommended for medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
- International Driving Permit (if you plan to rent a car).
Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to Port-au-Prince’s Cinematic Landscape
From famous films and TV shows to classic and contemporary books, Port-au-Prince offers a rich cinematic and literary experience. With this guide, you’re ready to embark on your own cinematic journey through the capital of Haiti. Enjoy your trip to this vibrant and captivating city!
