Movies Filmed in Grand Central Terminal

grand central terminal clock

Grand Central Terminal, the iconic transportation hub of New York City, has served as the backdrop for numerous films over the years. From romance to action and everything in between, this landmark location has set the scene for some of Hollywood’s most memorable moments. So grab your popcorn, find a comfy spot, and let’s take a cinematic tour of movies filmed in Grand Central Terminal.

North by Northwest

Grand Central Terminal serves as the setting for a dramatic chase scene in “North by Northwest” (1959), directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock. The film’s protagonist, played by Cary Grant, tries to escape his pursuers in the stunning Beaux-Arts architecture of the terminal. The iconic location adds to the suspense and intrigue of the scene, making it a standout moment in the film.

The Fisher King

“The Fisher King” (1991), directed by Terry Gilliam, stars Robin Williams and Jeff Bridges in a story about a radio shock jock seeking redemption after a tragic incident. The station serves as the location for an emotional scene where the two characters meet, highlighting the terminal’s grandeur and beauty.

Carlito’s Way

In “Carlito’s Way” (1993), directed by Brian De Palma, Grand Central Terminal serves as a backdrop to a scene where Carlito, played by Al Pacino, and his lover Gail, played by Penelope Ann Miller, say their goodbyes. The romantic setting of the terminal contrasts with the intense and violent nature of the film, making it a memorable moment.

Men in Black

“Men in Black” (1997), directed by Barry Sonnenfeld, features a scene where Agent K, played by Tommy Lee Jones, meets with Frank the Pug in the terminal. The film uses the terminal’s unique architecture and bustling atmosphere to create a sense of otherworldliness, adding to the sci-fi elements of the movie.

The Avengers

In “The Avengers” (2012), directed by Joss Whedon, Grand Central Terminal is the site of an epic battle between the superheroes and the villainous Chitauri army. The terminal’s iconic architecture and bustling crowds create a sense of urgency and danger in the scene, adding to the excitement of the film.

Friends with Benefits

“Friends with Benefits” (2011), directed by Will Gluck, features a scene where the characters played by Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis make a grand romantic gesture in the terminal. The stunning backdrop of the terminal adds to the emotional weight of the scene, making it a memorable moment in the film.

The Untouchables

“The Untouchables” (1987), directed by Brian De Palma, features a dramatic chase scene through the terminal’s crowded concourse. The scene’s use of the terminal’s unique architecture and bustling atmosphere adds to the tension and excitement of the film, making it a standout moment.

Arthur

In “Arthur” (1981), directed by Steve Gordon, Grand Central Terminal serves as the location for a scene where the titular character, played by Dudley Moore, chases after the woman he loves. The terminal’s stunning architecture and grandeur add to the romance and whimsy of the scene, making it a memorable moment in the film.

Spider-Man: Homecoming

“Spider-Man: Homecoming” (2017), directed by Jon Watts, features a scene where Spider-Man, played by Tom Holland, swings through the terminal in pursuit of a criminal. The terminal’s unique architecture and bustling crowds create a sense of excitement and danger in the scene, adding to the thrill of the film.

Unfaithful

“Unfaithful” (2002), directed by Adrian Lyne, features a scene where the characters played by Diane Lane and Olivier Martinez meet in the terminal’s grand Vanderbilt Hall. The stunning backdrop of the terminal adds to the sensuality and drama of the scene, making it a standout moment in the film.

The French Connection

“The French Connection” (1971), directed by William Friedkin, features a thrilling chase scene through the terminal’s crowded concourse. The scene’s use of the terminal’s unique architecture and bustling atmosphere adds to the tension and excitement of the film, making it a standout moment.

The Taking of Pelham One Two Three

“The Taking of Pelham One Two Three” (1974), directed by Joseph Sargent, features a tense scene where the hijackers and hostages of a subway train make their way through the terminal’s underground passages. The terminal’s maze-like tunnels and underground platforms create a sense of claustrophobia and danger in the scene, adding to the intensity of the film.

Grand Central Terminal has been a favorite location for filmmakers for decades, offering a stunning backdrop for a wide range of genres and styles. From thrilling action scenes to romantic moments and everything in between, the terminal’s unique architecture and bustling atmosphere have added to the magic of these cinematic moments. So the next time you find yourself passing through Grand Central Terminal, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and the countless films that have been brought to life within its walls.