Lights, Camera, Back Bay in Boston’s Iconic Neighborhood
In the heart of Boston, the Back Bay neighborhood has provided a backdrop for numerous television series and movies. Its charming streets, historic brownstones, and iconic landmarks have captivated filmmakers for decades. Below is a cinematic journey through Fisher College’s Back Bay in Boston, where many television series and films have immortalized the area on screen.
1. 'CITY ON A HILL' (2019-PRESENT)
Set in early 1990s Boston, “City on a Hill” explored the city’s complex history of crime, corruption, and racial tension. While the series primarily takes place in other parts of the city, Back Bay occasionally appears, serving as a backdrop for pivotal scenes that underscore the stark divide between Boston’s affluent elite and its marginalized communities.
2. 'CENTRAL PERK CAFÉ' (2024)
Although it’s not a TV series or movie, it is named after the coffee shop on the iconic TV sitcom "Friends". It’s located on Newbury Street in Back Bay. The shop was designed to reimagine Central Perk as a modern gathering spot for friends, rather than recreate the actual set. However, there are numerous references to "Friends" in the decor, such as a fountain on the wall and mentions of the show's characters and catchphrases on the menu, like a "Pivot Blend" coffee and "Joey's Meatball Sandwich."
3. 'LITTLE WOMEN' (2019)
"Little Women" is a 2019 American coming-of-age period drama film written and directed by Greta Gerwig. It is the seventh film adaptation of the 1868 novel of the same name by Louisa May Alcott. The film chronicles the lives of the March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—in Concord, Massachusetts, during the 19th century. The movie was filmed in various locations in Back Bay. Many beloved spots in and around Boston were used in the film's production from Beacon Street to the historic Arnold Arboretum, the Emerson Colonial Theatre to the Gibson House Museum. With its vibrant cityscapes, quaint small towns, and lush landscapes, New England provides an ideal backdrop for this timeless tale.
4. 'THE DEPARTED' (2006)
Martin Scorsese’s gritty crime drama, “The Departed,” featured several memorable scenes in Back Bay Boston. The neighborhood provided a vivid backdrop for the film’s intense storyline, from busy streets to elegant townhouses. Iconic landmarks like Copley Square and the Boston Public Library served as pivotal settings in this Academy Award-winning masterpiece.
5. 'FEVER PITCH' (2005)
Based on Nick Hornby’s novel, “Fever Pitch” brought the passion of Boston Red Sox baseball to the streets of Back Bay. Starring Drew Barrymore and Jimmy Fallon, the film captured the excitement and fervor of Red Sox Nation against the backdrop of iconic Fenway Park. Experience the thrill of game day as fans flock to local bars and pubs to cheer on their beloved team.
6. 'BOSTON LEGAL' (2004-2008)
Set in the offices of the fictional law firm Crane, Poole & Schmidt, “Boston Legal” offered a satirical take on the legal profession, complete with its colorful cast of characters and larger-than-life courtroom dramas. While the series primarily focused on the legal proceedings inside the firm, Back Bay’s iconic skyline and historic landmarks frequently made cameo appearances, reminding viewers of the show’s Boston roots.
7. 'GOOD WILL HUNTING' (1997)
“Good Will Hunting,” directed by Gus Van Sant, showcased Back Bay Boston in all its glory. As Matt Damon and Ben Affleck’s breakout film, it beautifully captured the essence of the neighborhood’s intellectual and cultural vibrancy. The historic brownstones lining Commonwealth Avenue play an integral role in the film’s narrative.
8. 'ALLY MCBEAL' (1997-2002)
The “Ally McBeal” TV series offered a whimsical glimpse into Back Bay Boston’s legal world. It followed the adventures of quirky lawyer Ally McBeal as she navigated life, love, and litigation against the backdrop of Boston’s iconic skyline. From bustling law firms to charming cafes, the series showcased the neighborhood’s dynamic energy and eclectic charm.
9. 'SPENSER: FOR HIRE' (1985-1988)
"Spenser: For Hire," based on Robert B. Parker’s detective novels, followed the adventures of private investigator Spenser as he solved crimes across Boston. Back Bay was the backdrop for many of Spenser’s investigations, offering a glimpse into the neighborhood’s hidden corners and bustling streets. Join Spenser as he unraveled mysteries against the iconic skyline of Boston’s Back Bay.
10. 'CHEERS' (1982-1993)
While not exclusively filmed in Back Bay, the iconic sitcom “Cheers” captured the essence of Boston’s neighborhood bar culture, drawing inspiration from real-life watering holes scattered throughout the city. The exterior shots of the eponymous bar were filmed on Beacon Street in Beacon Hill, just a stone’s throw away from Fisher College in the Back Bay. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and memorable cast of characters, “Cheers” became a beloved fixture of American television.
From gritty crime dramas to heartwarming comedies, Back Bay Boston has provided the perfect setting for a wide array of television series and movies. Its historic charm, cultural landmarks, and vibrant energy continue to inspire filmmakers and captivate audiences around the world. Whether you’re strolling down Newbury Street or admiring the architecture of Trinity Church, immerse yourself in the magic of Back Bay Boston, where cinematic dreams come to life.