Films have a special ability to take us to different worlds. Along with interesting characters and plots, it is one of the reasons why people watch films. Being transported into another reality is a great way for many people to briefly escape the complexities of their lives.
It is not unusual, then, for viewers to get attached to certain film settings. Who, for example, would not jump at a chance to visit the magical Hogwarts from the Harry Potter films? Movie characters’ homes play such an important role in establishing the personalities of characters that these homes tend to become characters in their own right.
To capture the grandeur of certain lofty characters, filmmakers often use some of the biggest and most beautiful homes to exist. In this article, we’ll look at some of these homes that have become famous on our screens.
The Building Where “Only Murders” Happened
Only Murders in the Building is one of the most popular Hulu murder shows right now. Its fourth season is expected to premiere in August. The series follows three characters as they investigate a death that occurs in their grand Upper West Side apartment building.
This building is the latest addition to the list of actual buildings that have famously featured in films. In real life, the building is called The Belnord, a historical apartment building that has been standing since 1908. It is located in New York City. Its large central courtyard, one of the largest in the city, serves as a central location in the show, though most of the interior scenes were shot on soundstages.
The “Home Alone” House
People who grew up in the 90s will definitely remember how this blockbuster Christmas comedy film series had them glued to the TV. It became a classic upon its release.
The house is probably one of the most famous houses in film history. This beautiful home is located in Illinois. After the film was released to wide acclaim, the house became a major tourist spot. Many people went there to see the setting of the many pranks and traps that they witnessed in the film. Interestingly, most of the film’s indoor scenes were actually shot in a studio, not in the house itself. The studio designers did a great job of recreating the insides of the house very detailedly.
In 2018, it was renovated and expanded but still retained its recognizable spaces. Fans had the rare opportunity to rent the house for one night for just 25 dollars in 2021. Right now, the house is on sale.
The House in “Downton Abbey”
This series takes us far back to the early 1900s in England. The story is about a noble family and their many servants. We get drawn into their world as they go about their daily lives in a fictional country estate, trying to survive the major events of their time.
Their estate is portrayed by the imposing Highclere Castle in Hampshire, England. It is a beautiful estate with vast grounds that has been standing since 1679. Its beautiful architecture made it just the perfect setting for the historical drama.
While some of the indoor scenes were filmed in studios, most of the interior and exterior scenes of the series were actually shot at Highclere Castle. The estate has also been used in many other films and TV shows. It is constantly used as the venue for several events, such as music concerts and wedding venues.
The “Bird Box” House
The American horror thriller, Bird Box, gripped the world with its plot when it was released. The film shows us a world that has been taken over by a strange monster. People who look at this monster are made to commit suicide. When a strange development leads to general crises, several characters seek safety in a stranger’s house.
You can find the house in Monrovia, California. It is a beautiful house with a low roof, a spacious front porch, natural wood sidings, and stone accents. It has become a major tourist attraction since the film was released. People go there to see the grounds and take pictures of themselves wearing blindfolds like characters from the film.
The Villa Balbianello from Casino Royale
Finally, the Villa del Balbianello deserves a worthy mention. Although it does not feature prominently in the 2006 James Bond film it is a shining example of great Italian architecture. In the film, James Bond spends some time there recovering after a bad experience.
Though originally built in 1787, it has been renovated very extensively. Now, it is a blend of elegant architecture and natural beauty, with its wonderful view of Lake Como. Its gardens, terraces, and richly designed interiors help to create a sense of luxury that fits the character of James Bond. Today, the villa is open to tourists from all over the world.