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Monterey in the Movies187 major motion pictures made in our back yard |
Since the very earliest days of motion pictures, the Monterey Peninsula, along with much of Monterey County, has been a popular place for location shooting. At least 187 theatrical films have been shot, at least in part, in this area. Some films may contain just a few seconds of footage, while others use the area for the entire feature. Aside from the obvious amusement factor, these films offer rare glimpses into the past of our community.
The list of films provided here was originally compiled in the 1980s by Joe Graziano of the Monterey County Herald, who wrote the Professor Toro column for many years. With help from his "Constant Readers" he was able to track down this vital information. We are most grateful for his efforts.
The list contains the titles (plus any alternate titles) and the year they were released. You may click on any title for more detailed information including a brief plot description, information on local scenery, directors, stars, and technical information. This detailed information was compiled from the Monterey Herald, the Monterey County Film Commission, the Internet Movie Database, Leonard Maltin's Movie and Video Guide, and Mr. Toy's own viewings of many films.
A few of the films listed here also feature stars who live in the area, or did at one time. Clint Eastwood performed in and directed Play Misty for Me, Doris Day had the title role in Julie, and Joan Fontaine played the leading ladies in Alfred Hitchcock's Rebecca and Suspicion, Kim Novak did the same in Vertigo. These persons are listed in italics on the detail pages..
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To find out just about anything you'd ever want to know about just about any movie ever made, visit
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More
links to the same lists:
The Alphabetical List
Or
The Chronological
List
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There is also a page of technical notes which you may find helpful when reading the detailed information.
HELP: The detailed information on some films is incomplete. If you can provide any additional (and verifiable) information, please write to Mr. Toy. Mr. Toy also suspects there may be other films out there that have not yet made the list. One possible candidate: The Uninvited, made in 1944. It starred Ray Milland and Ruth Hussey. Mr. Toy believes the background scenes of the coastline may have been filmed south of Carmel, but he has not been able to verify this.
One movie not mentioned on the list is a local production called Don't Pave Main Street. It is an excellent documentary of Carmel's history. It was produced by Carmel Heritage, a local historical organization. Clint Eastwood assisted with its production, and narrated the film. Although it was not released generally, it was shown in Carmel theatres and has been seen on the A&E cable channel. It is available on VHS and DVD at many local book and video stores. It is also available by mail order.
To learn more about filmmaking in Monterey County, including information on filming permits, visit the Monterey County Film Commission.
Want to see the filming locations first hand? Sign up for a ride on Monterey Movie Tours.