Lights, Camera, Action: New Orleans as Hollywood South
Welcome to Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte, your gateway to the enchanting world of New Orleans - a city that's not just famous for its jazz, cuisine, and vibrant culture, but also for its burgeoning film industry. Often dubbed "Hollywood South," New Orleans has become a hotspot for movie and TV production, adding another layer of excitement to our already captivating city. New Orleans' journey to becoming a film industry powerhouse began in the early 2000s when Louisiana introduced generous tax incentives for film and TV productions. This move, combined with the city's unique architecture, diverse landscapes, and rich culture, quickly attracted filmmakers from all over the world.
Why New Orleans?
Versatile Locations: From antebellum mansions to gritty urban landscapes, New Orleans can double for almost any setting.
Historic Architecture: Our well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings offer authentic backdrops for period pieces.
Unique Culture: The city's distinctive blend of cultures provides a rich tapestry for storytelling.
Cost-Effective: Even with recent changes to tax incentives, filming in New Orleans remains more affordable than in many other major cities.
Famous Productions
Some notable films and TV shows shot in and around New Orleans include:
• "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"
• "Interview with the Vampire"
• "12 Years a Slave"
• "American Horror Story: Coven"
• "NCIS: New Orleans"
• "Your Honor" - A legal thriller starring Bryan Cranston
• "Green Book" - The Oscar-winning film about a tour of the Deep South in the 1960s
• "Treme" - HBO's critically acclaimed series about post-Katrina New Orleans
• "Now You See Me" - The magic-heist film featuring an all-star cast
• "21 Jump Street" - The comedy reboot starring Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill
Star Sightings
It's not uncommon to spot celebrities around town during your stay. Many actors have fallen in love with New Orleans and even purchased homes here, including Brad Pitt, Sandra Bullock, and John Goodman.
Film Tourism
The film industry has given rise to a new form of tourism in New Orleans. Fans can take movie tours to visit famous filming locations, including some spots just steps away from Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte. You might recognize corners of the French Quarter from "Now You See Me" or "21 Jump Street," or explore the Tremé neighborhood that gave its name to the HBO series.
Impact on Local Economy
The film industry has created thousands of jobs for locals and brought millions of dollars into the city's economy. It's not just big studios benefiting - local businesses, from restaurants to hardware stores, all play a part in supporting productions.
During your stay at Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte, you might just stumble upon a film set. Here are some ways to experience Hollywood South:
Take a film location tour
Visit the New Orleans Film Museum
Attend the New Orleans Film Festival (usually held in October)
Keep an eye out for "filming in progress" signs as you explore the city
Check out local music venues featured in "Treme
At Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte, we're proud to be part of a city that's as much a star on the silver screen as it is in real life. Our historic property, with its classic New Orleans architecture, has even caught the eye of location scouts (though we always prioritize our guests' privacy and comfort). Whether you're a film buff hoping to spot a celebrity, or simply curious about this exciting aspect of our city, New Orleans' status as Hollywood South adds yet another layer of magic to your stay. Who knows? During your visit, you might find yourself walking the same streets as your favorite movie stars or watching the next big blockbuster come to life. So grab your camera (or smartphone), and get ready to experience the cinematic charm of New Orleans. And remember, when you stay at Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte, you're not just visiting New Orleans - you're starring in your own Crescent City adventure!