Discovering Milwaukee's Silver Screen: A Guide to Movies Filmed in the Brew City

Hello there, movie buffs! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of movies filmed in Milwaukee, the vibrant city we lovingly call the Brew City. So, grab your popcorn and let's explore the silver screen's love affair with our charming hometown. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and movies filmed in milwaukee.

Why Milwaukee? Why Now?

You might be wondering, "Why Milwaukee?" Well, guys, our city has been quietly making a name for itself as a filming location. With its diverse neighborhoods, historic architecture, and Midwestern charm, Milwaukee offers a unique backdrop that's caught the eye of filmmakers. Plus, with incentives like the Wisconsin Film Enterprise program, the city's film industry is booming.

Milwaukee's Movie Moment: A Brief History

Milwaukee's cinematic journey began in the early 20th century. The city's first film studio, the Wisconsin Motion Picture Company, was established in 1912. Since then, Milwaukee has been featured in numerous films, from silent classics to blockbuster hits. Let's take a look at some of the most notable movies filmed in Milwaukee.

The '90s: When Milwaukee Was the Cool Kid on the Block

The '90s were a golden age for Milwaukee on screen. The city played a starring role in several iconic films, including:

- Major League (1989) - Milwaukee's County Stadium (now Miller Park) was transformed into the fictional Cleveland Indians' home field. The film's memorable scenes, like Jake Taylor's (Tom Berenger) home run and the infamous "Wild Thing" pitch, were all filmed here. - The Silence of the Lambs (1991) - While most of the film was shot in Pittsburgh, some exterior scenes were filmed in Milwaukee. The city's historic Pabst Theatre served as the exterior for the fictional 'Memphis' theatre where Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins) makes his dramatic escape. - Groundhog Day (1993) - Although the film is set in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, many scenes were actually shot in Milwaukee. The city's historic Third Ward neighborhood stood in for the fictional town's main street.

The 21st Century: Milwaukee's Big Screen Resurgence

In recent years, Milwaukee has seen a surge in film productions. Some notable movies filmed in Milwaukee include:

- Public Enemies (2009) - Director Michael Mann chose Milwaukee as the backdrop for this gangster film starring Johnny Depp and Christian Bale. The city's historic buildings and neighborhoods were transformed into 1930s Chicago. - Straight Outta Compton (2015) - Milwaukee stood in for Compton in this biographical drama about the groundbreaking hip-hop group N.W.A. The city's North Division High School was used as the exterior for the group's fictional high school. - The Hate U Give (2018) - Based on the popular young adult novel, this film about police brutality and racial injustice was primarily shot in Milwaukee. The city's North Division High School and 5th Street Viaduct were among the locations used in the film.

Milwaukee on TV: Small Screen, Big Impact

Milwaukee hasn't just been a movie star - it's also made a name for itself on the small screen. Here are a few TV shows that called Milwaukee home:

- Happy Days (1974-1984) - While the show was set in the fictional Midwestern town of Milwaukee, most of the exterior shots were actually filmed in Los Angeles. However, the show's creators were inspired by their experiences growing up in Milwaukee. - Laverne & Shirley (1976-1983) - This '70s sitcom about two roommates working in a brewery was set in Milwaukee. While many interior scenes were filmed in LA, the show's exterior shots and opening credits featured Milwaukee landmarks like the Milwaukee River and the city's historic breweries. - Making It (2018-present) - This crafting competition show hosted by Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman was filmed at the Pabst Theater in Milwaukee. The city's vibrant arts scene and maker community made it the perfect backdrop for the show.

Milwaukee's Movie Magic: Behind the Scenes

Being a movie extra or working on a film set can be an exciting experience. If you're interested in getting involved in Milwaukee's film industry, here are a few tips:

- Join the Wisconsin Film Community - Connect with local filmmakers, actors, and crew members through online forums, social media groups, and local film festivals. - Become a Movie Extra - Many films and TV shows cast extras locally. Websites like Central Casting and Extras Casting Chicago list casting calls for Milwaukee-area productions. - Take a Film Production Course - Milwaukee Area Technical College and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee both offer courses in film production. These can help you gain the skills and knowledge needed to work on a film set.

Milwaukee's Movie Map: A Tour of the City's Film Locations

If you're a movie buff looking to explore Milwaukee's film history, here's a self-guided tour of some of the city's most famous movie locations:

1. 1. Miller Park - 1 Brewers Way, Milwaukee, WI 53214 - Home to the Brewers and the site of Major League's iconic "Wild Thing" pitch.
2. 2. Pabst Theater - 144 E Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 - Featured in The Silence of the Lambs and Making It.
3. 3. North Division High School - 1011 W Center St, Milwaukee, WI 53206 - Used as a location in Straight Outta Compton and The Hate U Give.
4. 4. 5th Street Viaduct - 5th St, Milwaukee, WI 53202 - A key location in The Hate U Give.
5. 5. Milwaukee River - Milwaukee, WI 53202 - Featured in the opening credits of Laverne & Shirley.

Milwaukee's Movie Scene: A Bright Future

As Milwaukee continues to attract film productions, the city's movie scene is poised for a bright future. With its diverse neighborhoods, historic architecture, and Midwestern charm, Milwaukee offers a unique backdrop that's caught the eye of filmmakers. So, grab your popcorn and get ready to enjoy the show - because Milwaukee's silver screen moment is just getting started.

That's a wrap, movie buffs! We hope you've enjoyed this guided tour of movies filmed in Milwaukee. Until next time, keep your eyes on the Brew City's big screen - you never know where you might spot your favorite movie star next.