We know that there have been a number of popular films that were set in Michigan, but that does not necessarily mean they were filmed here (think Robo Cop, for instance). Then there are films that when they were shooting, they took over entire Michigan locations, causing a frenzy among locals, eager to catch a glimpse of a Hollywood celebrity sipping on coffee at a local cafe, or saying nice things about the state. Here are a few films in which we can either instantly recognize a Michigan locale on film or that had a huge presence while shooting on-location in the Mitten.
13) 30 Minutes or Less, Grand Rapids
This aptly named film is about a slacker pizza delivery guy from Grand Rapids.
12) Anatomy of a Murder
This film, based on a best-selling novel based ona 1952 murder case, was shot in multiple places in the Upper Peninsula, including in the Thunder Bay Inn in Big Bay, Marquette and Ishpeming. The movie stayed true to its Michigan roots by having its world premiere at the United Artists Theater in Detroit.
11) Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice, Detroit
Ben Affleck temporarily moved his family to Metro Detroit during filming of this blockbuster super hero movie, causing local media members to become star-struck with possibility of catching him out and about.
10) Semi-Pro, Detroit, Flint
This goofball comedy, starring Will Ferrell was filmed in Detroit, Flint and Los Angeles. It didn't make a big splash in the box office, but the mere presence of Ferrell, as well as co-stars Woody Harrelson, André Benjamin, and Maura Tierney in the Mitten was cause for Hollywood intrigue among locals.
9) Renaissance Man, Detroit
The People Mover and Jefferson Avenue play prominant roles in the opening scene of this 90s film, starring Danny Devito.
8) Somewhere In Time
This classic movie was shot on-location at the magnificant Grand Hotel and the Mission Point Fine Arts building (now the Mission Point Resort), both on Mackinac Island. Filming proved to be a challenge, as special permission had to be granted to temporarily allow cars onto the island, which typically only allows bikes or horse and buggy as modes of transportation.
7) Super Sucker, Jackson
Michigan native Jeff Daniels starred in this cheesy comedy, filmed in Jackson.
6) Beverly Hills Cop, Detroit
This film in many ways put the action comedy genre on the map when it premiered in 1984. Filming took place in Detroit, Los Angeles and Beverly Hills.
5 )Whip It, Detroit
Directed by Drew Barrymore, this film featured real Michigan derby players from local teams, including the Detroit Derby Girls and the Grand Raggidy Roller Girls.
4) Escanaba in da Moonlight
This ode to Upper Peninsula, directed by Michigan native Jeff Daniels, was filmed throughout the Escanaba area in the UP.
3) Grosse Pointe Blank
Even though this 1997 American comedy crime film starring John Cusack was named after the tony suburb of Grosse Pointe, only a small portion of the film was actually shot there. Some scenes took place in Detroit, while the majority of the movie filmed in California.
2) Gran Torino
This 2008 film directed by Clint Eastwood is full of Michigan representation, with scenes shot in Highland Park, Grosse Pointe, Detroit, Royal Oak, and Center Line.
1) 8 Mile
Detroit played a major role in Eminem's break out film, as well as Warren, Southfield, Southgate, Highland Park, and Sterling Heights.
We could go on and on about the films that were shot in Michigan. Tell us, do you remember a time when Hollywood took over your town? Let us know in the comments below!
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