“Coming to America,” the classic 1988 comedy film starring Eddie Murphy, was filmed in various locations around the United States. Let’s take a closer look at where this iconic movie was filmed and some interesting facts about the filming process.
One of the most iconic locations in “Coming to America” is the fictional African nation of Zamunda. The exterior shots of the royal palace in Zamunda were actually filmed at the historic mansion known as the “Wynand Fockink House” in Long Island, New York. 🏰
Another important location in the film is the fast-food restaurant McDowell’s, where Eddie Murphy’s character, Prince Akeem, works. The McDowell’s restaurant scenes were filmed at a Wendy’s fast-food restaurant on Queens Boulevard in Queens, New York. 🍔
The scenes set in the ultra-luxurious Waldorf Astoria hotel were actually filmed at the real Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York City. The hotel’s grand ballroom was transformed into the opulent setting for the film’s memorable royal wedding scenes. 👑
The barbershop scenes in the movie, where Eddie Murphy plays multiple characters, were filmed at a real barbershop called “My-T-Fine Barbershop” in Brooklyn, New York. The owner of the barbershop allowed the filmmakers to use the location for the movie, adding an authentic touch to the scenes. 💈
One of the most memorable scenes in “Coming to America” is the basketball game where Prince Akeem and his friend Semmi (played by Arsenio Hall) attempt to blend in with everyday Americans. This scene was filmed at Madison Square Garden in New York City, adding a touch of realism to the comedy. 🏀
Overall, the filming locations for “Coming to America” added to the authenticity and charm of the film, creating a rich and vibrant world for the characters to inhabit.
According to Lisa B., a location scout in the film industry, choosing the right filming locations is crucial for creating a believable and immersive movie experience. She explains, “Filming locations play a key role in setting the tone and atmosphere of a film. By selecting the right locations, filmmakers can transport audiences to different worlds and bring stories to life in a visually compelling way.”
In addition, John S., a production designer who has worked on numerous films, emphasizes the importance of attention to detail in recreating specific settings for movies. He notes, “Creating authentic and realistic sets is essential for immersing audiences in the world of a film. From elaborate palaces to everyday locations like barbershops, every detail matters in making a film come to life.”
In conclusion, the filming locations of “Coming to America” added depth and character to the film, creating a rich tapestry of settings that brought the story to life in a memorable way.
Here are some common questions about the filming locations of “Coming to America”:
1. Where was the royal palace in Zamunda filmed?
The exterior shots of the royal palace were filmed at the Wynand Fockink House in Long Island, New York.
2. Which fast-food restaurant was used as the setting for McDowell’s in the movie?
The McDowell’s restaurant scenes were filmed at a Wendy’s fast-food restaurant on Queens Boulevard in Queens, New York.
3. What real hotel was used for the Waldorf Astoria scenes in the film?
The Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York City was used for the filming of the luxurious hotel scenes in “Coming to America.”
4. Where were the barbershop scenes in the movie filmed?
The barbershop scenes were filmed at a real barbershop called “My-T-Fine Barbershop” in Brooklyn, New York.
5. Which iconic sports arena was used for the basketball game scene in the movie?
The basketball game scene was filmed at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
6. How important are filming locations in creating a believable movie experience?
Filming locations play a key role in setting the tone and atmosphere of a film, helping to transport audiences to different worlds and bring stories to life visually.
7. What role do production designers play in choosing and creating filming locations?
Production designers are responsible for creating authentic and realistic sets that immerse audiences in the world of a film, paying attention to every detail to make the film come to life.
8. Why is attention to detail important in recreating specific settings for movies?
Attention to detail is essential for immersing audiences in the world of a film, from elaborate palaces to everyday locations, every detail matters in making a film believable and engaging.
9. How do filming locations contribute to the overall atmosphere of a movie?
Filming locations help to create a rich tapestry of settings that bring the story to life in a memorable way, adding depth and character to the film.
10. What are some key considerations when choosing filming locations for a movie?
Key considerations when choosing filming locations include authenticity, visual appeal, logistical feasibility, and the ability to enhance the storytelling of the film.
11. How do filmmakers balance using real locations versus creating sets for a movie?
Filmmakers often balance using real locations with creating sets to achieve the desired look and feel for a film, blending authenticity with creative vision to bring stories to life.
12. What are some examples of movies where filming locations played a crucial role in the storytelling?
Movies like “Coming to America” showcase how filming locations can enhance the storytelling of a film, creating immersive worlds for characters to inhabit and bringing audiences along on a visual journey.
Daniella is the creator and author of iliketodabble.com. When their wife Alexandra and them aren’t globetrotting or playing with their 7+ animals, they are dabbling and working towards a future of financial freedom.
