Best Movies Filmed In OC
Hollywood films are filled with multimillion dollar budgets, A-list stars and production that takes place in various locations. Many times, these films shot in local areas like Orange County in Southern California. Here are some of the best movies filmed in OC that range from dramas, comedies and action-packed suspense genres.
That Thing You Do!
Set in the summer of 1964, this American musical comedy drama from the 1990s tells the story of the quick rise and fall of a one-hit wonder pop band. Tom Hanks directed and starred in the film that also had scenes shot throughout the Orange County area. Orange Circle or Old Towne Plaza is a popular spot that captures much of the retro 1950s and 1960s look for many films looking for that type of environment.
Hangover Part III
The third installment of the Hangover trilogy delivers the wolf pack in a situation where they are on the search for Mr. Chow to find one of their own that is kidnapped. Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis and Ed Helms are back in this film to bring the audience the comedy that Hangover is known for.Orange County was present in the film when production of the film shut down the 73 freeway between the I-405 and Jamboree Road.
Fast and Furious
The first film in the Fast and Furious franchise uncovered the street racing scene that was inspired by a magazine article "Racer X" and has since inspired more than 6 more films. Vin Diesel's character is the leader of the street gang that is under suspicion of stealing expensive equipment. Paul Walker's character is an undercover cop that is trying to figure out the culprits. The action packed film was also had a scene filmed in Little Saigon in Westminster where the Johnny Tran gang catches up to Vin Diesel and Paul Walker and their cars blow up.
Related: Best Movies Set In Orange County
Ocean's Eleven
Who can forget George Clooney's role as Danny Ocean trying to take on the biggest heist in the Las Vegas by taking out Bellagio, the Mirage and the MGM Grand. The all star cast joining Clooney like Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts and many more really set the movie as a powerhouse film with twists and turns. One of the notable scenes where Danny Ocean and his team steal the "pinch" that will create the electromagnetic pulse was filmed at the Gillespie Neuroscience Research Facility on the Irvine campus of UCI. It was filmed at night over the weekend and Clooney and the crew go for a bite to eat at the Anteatery on campus after shooting.
Rain Man
This classic film that brought together two legendary actors, Dustin Hoffman and Tom Cruise, to tell the story of Charlie and his savant brother Raymond. Following the death of their father, their worlds collide and they travel across the country. The journey of discovery of their love for one another also had a scene that was filmed in Orange County. The final scene with Hoffman and Cruise was shot at the Santa Ana Regional Transportation Center.
Related: OC's Most Popular Filming Locations
