Post-war America, a period marked by profound changes and significant cultural shifts, has long been a source of fascination for filmmakers, authors, and audiences alike. The rich tapestry of stories born out of this era has been immortalized in a multitude of films, books, and TV series, offering us glimpses into a time that feels both familiar and distant. From big-city skylines to small-town charm, this guide will take you on a journey through the iconic locations that have served as the backdrop for some of the most famous films shot in post-war America.
10 Famous Films Shot in Post-War America
The period following World War II has been a goldmine for cinematic storytelling, giving rise to classics that continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Here are 10 famed films, each offering a unique perspective on post-war America:
- “On the Waterfront” (1954): Directed by Elia Kazan, this film explores the gritty underworld of dockside New Jersey, spotlighting corruption, crime, and the struggle for workers’ rights.
- “Rebel Without a Cause” (1955): James Dean’s iconic portrayal of teenage angst came to life in the streets of Los Angeles, capturing the spirit of post-war youth culture.
- “Vertigo” (1958): Alfred Hitchcock’s psychological thriller showcases San Francisco’s distinctive cityscape, from the Golden Gate Bridge to the hauntingly beautiful Mission San Juan Bautista.
- “West Side Story” (1961): This timeless musical brings the vibrant neighborhoods of New York City to the screen, with a tale of love and rivalry unfolding in the city’s West Side.
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” (1962): Set in a fictional town in Alabama, this film adaptation of Harper Lee’s novel delves into the racial tensions and moral complexities of the American South.
- “Easy Rider” (1969): A road trip movie at its core, Easy Rider traverses the American Southwest, capturing the countercultural spirit of the late 1960s.
- “The Godfather” (1972): Francis Ford Coppola’s epic crime drama presents a sweeping view of New York City and Las Vegas, offering a darker look at the American Dream.
- “American Graffiti” (1973): George Lucas’s nostalgic homage to the early 1960s takes us through the neon-lit streets of Modesto, California, where rock ‘n’ roll and hot rod culture reign supreme.
- “The Deer Hunter” (1978): This powerful war drama, set in the steel mill community of Clairton, Pennsylvania, explores the devastating impact of the Vietnam War on small-town America.
- “Raging Bull” (1980): Martin Scorsese’s biographical film about boxer Jake LaMotta showcases the raw energy and gritty reality of post-war New York City.
5 TV Shows Set in Post-War America
The post-war era has also served as the setting for intriguing TV shows, offering in-depth explorations of the period’s defining themes. Here are 5 shows that brilliantly capture the essence of post-war America:
- “Mad Men” (2007-2015): Set in the competitive world of Madison Avenue advertising firms in the 1960s, Mad Men explores the changing social and political landscape of post-war New York City.
- “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” (2017-present): This Emmy-winning series takes us through the vibrant comedy scene of late 1950s New York City, following the journey of a housewife turned stand-up comedian.
- “Masters of Sex” (2013-2016): Set in the 1950s, this drama series chronicles the groundbreaking work of pioneers in the field of human sexuality, Dr. William Masters and Virginia Johnson.
- “The Man in the High Castle” (2015-2019): This dystopian series presents an alternate post-WWII America, divided and ruled by the Axis powers.
- “The Americans” (2013-2018): This critically acclaimed spy thriller, set during the Cold War, follows the lives of two Soviet KGB officers posing as an American couple in suburban Washington D.C.
5 Animated Films Set in Post-War America
Animation has been a powerful medium for portraying post-war America, capturing the era’s unique charm and challenges. Here are 5 animated films that offer a colorful window into this distinctive period:
- “The Lady and the Tramp” (1955): This Disney classic, set in the early 20th century, takes us through the idyllic streets and parks of a quintessential American town.
- “One Hundred and One Dalmatians” (1961): While largely set in London, this beloved film showcases mid-century design influences, capturing the aesthetic sensibilities of the post-war era.
- “The Iron Giant” (1999): Set during the Cold War in 1957, this film explores the fear and paranoia of the period through the heartwarming friendship between a boy and a giant robot.
- “The Incredibles” (2004): This Pixar hit, set in a retro-futuristic 1960s setting, combines elements of the spy and superhero genres, reflecting the post-war fascination with technology and power.
- “Up” (2009): While spanning various time periods, this film’s poignant opening sequence paints a picture of American life from the 1930s to the post-war era.
Famous Books Set in Post-War America: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary
Literature has offered some of the most compelling portrayals of post-war America, with authors weaving narratives that capture the complexities of this transformative period. Here are three classic and three contemporary books that bring post-war America to life:
Classic:
- “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger: This seminal work, set in 1950s New York City, explores themes of adolescent rebellion and alienation, capturing the zeitgeist of post-war youth culture.
- “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee: Set in the 1930s, this Pulitzer-winning novel delves into the racial and social dynamics of the American South, with repercussions echoing into the post-war period.
- “On the Road” by Jack Kerouac: This quintessential Beat Generation novel, based on Kerouac’s own cross-country road trips in the late 1940s, embodies the post-war spirit of freedom and discovery.
Contemporary:
- “The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay” by Michael Chabon: This Pulitzer-winning novel, set in New York City during and after WWII, explores the Golden Age of comic books, a cultural phenomenon of the post-war era.
- “Revolutionary Road” by Richard Yates: A sharp critique of 1950s suburban life and the pursuit of the American Dream.
- “11/22/63” by Stephen King: This time-travel thriller takes readers back to the early 1960s, offering a vivid portrayal of America leading up to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
Exploring Post-War America Filming Locations – Where to Go
Visiting the filming locations of your favorite movies and TV shows can be a rewarding way to engage with post-war America’s rich cinematic history. Here are some must-visit places where iconic scenes were shot:
- Red Square, New York City: Featured in “West Side Story,” this public plaza captures the vivid cultural mosaic of post-war New York City.
- San Francisco Bay Area, California: The iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Mission San Juan Bautista, featured in “Vertigo,” offer stunning views and a deep sense of cinematic history.
- Hoboken, New Jersey: Explore the waterfront where Marlon Brando’s character in “On the Waterfront” fought against corruption.
- Monroeville, Alabama: Visit the courthouse where the iconic trial scenes from “To Kill a Mockingbird” were filmed.
- The Las Vegas Strip, Nevada: Featured in “The Godfather,” the dazzling lights and grandeur of the Strip encapsulate the allure and excess of post-war America.
Where to Sleep in Post-War America: Budget and Luxury Options
Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, post-war America’s diverse cities offer a range of places to stay:
Budget:
- HI NYC Hostel, New York City: This budget hostel offers comfortable accommodations in the heart of Manhattan, close to many filming locations.
- Green Tortoise Hostel, San Francisco: A vibrant hostel in the heart of San Francisco, offering easy access to the city’s iconic landmarks.
- Sin City Hostel, Las Vegas: This affordable hostel is located just minutes away from the Las Vegas Strip.
Luxury:
- The Plaza, New York City: This luxury hotel has been featured in numerous films and offers a taste of the city’s glamorous past.
- Fairmont San Francisco: This grand hotel, located atop Nob Hill, offers stunning views of the city and the Bay Area.
- The Venetian, Las Vegas: Experience the opulence of Las Vegas in this luxury resort on the Strip.
Where to Eat in Post-War America: Budget and Luxury Options
Post-war America’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape. From upscale dining to budget-friendly eateries, here are some places to grab a bite:
Budget:
- Joe’s Pizza, New York City: Enjoy a classic slice of New York pizza at this beloved Greenwich Village institution.
- In-N-Out Burger, California: This iconic West Coast burger chain is a must-try for its simple yet delicious menu.
- Tacos El Gordo, Las Vegas: This popular taqueria offers authentic Tijuana-style tacos at a budget-friendly price.
Luxury:
- 21 Club, New York City: Featured in films like “Wall Street,” this historic restaurant offers a taste of Old New York glamour.
- The French Laundry, California: This three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Napa Valley offers a unique fine dining experience.
- Joí«l Robuchon, Las Vegas: Enjoy exquisite French cuisine at this three-Michelin-starred restaurant in the MGM Grand.
Detailed Itinerary: Exploring Post-War America Day by Day
Planning a trip through post-war America’s cinematic landscapes? Here’s a suggested itinerary to guide your journey:
Day 1: New York City: Begin your journey in the Big Apple. Visit the iconic Red Square and explore other filming locations from “West Side Story” and “On the Waterfront.” End your day with dinner at the 21 Club.
Day 2: Hoboken, New Jersey: Take a short trip to Hoboken to see the waterfront featured in “On the Waterfront.” Enjoy a casual lunch at a local pizzeria.
Day 3: Travel to San Francisco: Catch a flight to San Francisco. Take some time to relax and settle into your accommodations.
Day 4: San Francisco: Spend the day exploring filming locations from “Vertigo,” including the Golden Gate Bridge and Mission San Juan Bautista. Have dinner at The French Laundry.
Day 5: Travel to Las Vegas: Fly out to Las Vegas. Enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the Strip.
Day 6: Las Vegas: Visit the filming locations from “The Godfather.” End your day with an exquisite meal at Joí«l Robuchon.
Day 7: Monroeville, Alabama: Catch a flight to Alabama to visit the courthouse from “To Kill a Mockingbird.” Enjoy some Southern comfort food at a local eatery.
Day 8: Departure: Pack your bags and prepare for your journey home, taking with you the memories and experiences of your cinematic adventure through post-war America.
Cryptid Legends and Curiosities
Every region has its legends and post-war America is no exception. Tales of cryptids, or creatures whose existence is unsubstantiated, abound. From the elusive Bigfoot reported in the forests of the Pacific Northwest to the mysterious Mothman of West Virginia, these cryptid legends add a layer of intrigue to your cinematic journey. As you explore, keep an open mind – who knows what curiosities you might encounter!
Hidden Gems in Post-War America
Beyond the well-known filming locations, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s the charming neighborhoods of San Francisco’s North Beach, the historic streets of Philadelphia, or the scenic beauty of Utah’s Monument Valley, these lesser-known locations offer unique insights into post-war America. As you venture off the beaten path, you’ll find that the real magic often lies in the unexpected.
What to Pack for a Trip to Post-War America
When preparing for your cinematic journey, consider the diverse climates across different regions of post-war America. Pack versatile clothes suitable for various weather conditions, comfortable shoes for exploring, and don’t forget your camera to capture these iconic locations. A travel journal might also come in handy to document your experiences.
Depending on the time of year, you may need to pack warm clothing for colder climates, or lightweight clothes for warmer areas. Regardless of the season, always be prepared for unexpected weather changes.
Conclusion
From the silver screen to the pages of classic novels, post-war America continues to captivate us with its compelling narratives and memorable settings. Embarking on this cinematic journey offers not only a deeper understanding of the films, books, and TV shows that defined the era, but also an immersive way to experience the rich history and diverse landscapes of post-war America.
Whether you’re a film buff, a history enthusiast, or a traveler seeking unique adventures, this guide offers a comprehensive look at the iconic filming locations, hidden gems, and fascinating legends that make post-war America a captivating destination. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to step into the scenes of your favorite films. The magic of post-war America awaits!
