Scratch these movies filmed in Miami off your watchlist.
Miami has long been a favorite location for filmmakers, offering vibrant scenery, diverse architecture, and a lively cultural backdrop. Here’s a look at some notable movies filmed in Miami, highlighting key locations and famous actors.
Scarface (1983)
One of the most iconic films associated with Miami is Scarface (1983). Directed by Brian De Palma and featuring Al Pacino as Tony Montana, this crime drama is renowned for its gritty depiction of the drug trade. Notable locations include South Beach, the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, and Little Havana. The Fontainebleau Miami Beach provided a luxurious setting for several scenes, while the vibrant colors and Cuban influence of Little Havana perfectly complemented the film’s intense narrative.
Locations: Various spots across Miami, including South Beach, Fontainebleau Miami Beach, and Little Havana.
Actors: Al Pacino, Michelle Pfeiffer, Steven Bauer
Miami Vice (2006)
Another significant film set in Miami is Miami Vice (2006), directed by Michael Mann. This film adaptation of the popular TV series stars Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx as undercover detectives. Filming took place in high-profile locations such as Miami Beach, Downtown Miami, and various nightclubs and marinas. The movie highlighted Miami’s sleek, modern side, showcasing its glamorous nightlife and waterfront allure.
Locations: Miami Beach, Downtown Miami, and various nightclubs and marinas.
Actors: Colin Farrell, Jamie Foxx, Gong Li. Directed by Michael Mann, who also produced the original TV series
Bad Boys (1995) and Bad Boys II (2003)
The Bad Boys series brought explosive action and comedic flair to Miami with Bad Boys (1995) and Bad Boys II (2003). Starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, these films featured high-speed chases and dramatic standoffs in locations like South Beach, Coconut Grove, and Downtown Miami. The chemistry between Smith and Lawrence, coupled with Miami’s picturesque settings, created a dynamic portrayal of crime-fighting in the city.
Locations: South Beach, Coconut Grove, and Downtown Miami.
Actors: Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, Téa Leoni (Bad Boys); Gabrielle Union (Bad Boys II)
The Birdcage (1996)
The Birdcage (1996) is another film that utilized Miami’s vibrant atmosphere. Directed by Mike Nichols and featuring Robin Williams and Nathan Lane, the comedy is set in the lively heart of South Beach. The Carlyle Hotel on Ocean Drive served as the primary filming location, and the area’s colorful ambiance perfectly complemented the film’s comedic and heartfelt moments.
Locations: The Carlyle Hotel on Ocean Drive, Lincoln Road, and various spots in South Beach.
Actors: Robin Williams, Nathan Lane, Gene Hackman, Dianne Wiest
2 Fast 2 Furious (2003)
The high-octane action of 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003) brought street racing to Miami’s iconic locations, including the Venetian Causeway and the Seven Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys. Starring Paul Walker and Tyrese Gibson, the film showcased Miami’s unique blend of urban and tropical landscapes through thrilling races and stunts.
Locations: Venetian Causeway, Seven Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys, and various Miami neighborhoods.
Actors: Paul Walker, Tyrese Gibson, Eva Mendes
There’s Something About Mary (1998)
In There’s Something About Mary (1998), Miami’s picturesque locales provided a beautiful backdrop for this romantic comedy. Filmed at the Cardozo Hotel on Ocean Drive and various spots around Coral Gables, the film showcased the city’s sun-soaked scenery and added a touch of Miami’s charm to its hilarious and heartwarming scenes.
Locations: Coral Gables, Miami Beach, and the Cardozo Hotel on Ocean Drive.
Actors: Cameron Diaz, Ben Stiller, Matt Dillon
Any Given Sunday (1999)
Any Given Sunday (1999) depicted the trials of a professional football team with several Miami locations, including Hard Rock Stadium and Downtown Miami. Directed by Oliver Stone and starring Al Pacino and Cameron Diaz, the film used Miami’s vibrant energy to enhance its intense sports drama.
Locations: Hard Rock Stadium, Downtown Miami, and various local establishments
Actors: Al Pacino, Cameron Diaz, Jamie Foxx, Dennis Quaid
Moonlight (2016)
Moonlight (2016), which won the Academy Award for Best Picture, offers a poignant look at a young Black man growing up in a rough Miami neighborhood. Filming locations like Liberty City and Virginia Key Beach Park added authenticity to the film, while Jimmy’s Eastside Diner provided an iconic setting for a pivotal scene.
Locations: Liberty City, Virginia Key Beach Park, Jimmy’s Eastside Diner.
Actors: Trevante Rhodes, André Holland, Janelle Monáe, Mahershala Ali
Pain & Gain (2013)
Pain & Gain further showcase Miami’s diverse landscapes. This dark comedy directed by Michael Bay was based on a true story of bodybuilders involved in criminal activities. Filming took place across Miami, from the flashy South Beach to the more subdued Coconut Grove, capturing the city’s eclectic mix of opulence and grittiness.
Locations: South Beach, Coconut Grove, and various Miami locales
Actors: Mark Wahlberg, Dwayne Johnson, Anthony Mackie
Marley & Me (2008)
Marley & Me follows the lives of a couple and their mischievous dog, Marley. The film was shot in various Miami suburbs, including Westchester and Key Biscayne, showcasing the charming residential areas and family-friendly environments of the city.
Locations: Westchester neighborhood, Key Biscayne, and various Miami suburbs.
Actors: Jennifer Aniston, Owen Wilson, Eric Dane
READ MORE: The best waterfront restaurants in Miami
This story was generated in part by AI and edited by Floricua Newsroom staff.
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