Yale University, one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, has been a filming location for numerous movies and television shows over the years. The university's stunning architecture, historic buildings, and picturesque surroundings make it an attractive location for filmmakers. From classic comedies to modern dramas, Yale has played a significant role in bringing many stories to life on the big and small screens. In this article, we will explore 10 notable Yale filming locations that have been featured in various films and television shows.
Introduction to Yale’s Filming History
Yale University’s filming history dates back to the early 20th century, with the first recorded film shoot taking place in 1922. Since then, the university has been a popular location for filmmakers, with over 100 films and television shows featuring Yale as a primary or secondary location. The university’s administration has a dedicated film office that handles all filming requests, ensuring that the location is used in a way that respects the university’s academic and research mission.
Yale’s Architecture and Film
Yale’s stunning architecture is one of the main reasons why it is a popular filming location. The university’s buildings, designed in a range of styles from Gothic to Modern, provide a unique and diverse backdrop for films. The Collegiate Gothic style, in particular, is prominent in many of Yale’s buildings, including the iconic Sterling Memorial Library and the Yale Law School. This style, characterized by its use of stone, brick, and intricate detailing, adds a sense of grandeur and history to films.
| Building | Film/TV Show |
|---|---|
| Sterling Memorial Library | Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull |
| Yale Law School | The Good Wife |
| Old Campus | Legally Blonde |
10 Notable Yale Filming Locations
Here are 10 notable Yale filming locations that have been featured in various films and television shows:
- Sterling Memorial Library: Featured in Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, this iconic library is one of Yale's most recognizable buildings.
- Yale Law School: The Good Wife, a popular television drama, featured the Yale Law School as a primary location.
- Old Campus: The 2001 comedy film Legally Blonde featured the Old Campus as the main character's alma mater.
- Davenport College: The 1994 film PCU featured Davenport College as the main character's residence.
- Sage Hall: The 2000 film The Skulls featured Sage Hall as a primary location.
- Yale Art Gallery: The 2013 film The Internship featured the Yale Art Gallery as a location.
- Cross Campus: The 2014 film The Amazing Spider-Man 2 featured Cross Campus as a location.
- Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library: The 2016 film The Man in the High Castle featured the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library as a location.
- Yale Center for British Art: The 2017 film The Greatest Showman featured the Yale Center for British Art as a location.
- Harkness Tower: The 2019 film The Society featured Harkness Tower as a primary location.
Impact of Filming on Yale
The impact of filming on Yale is significant, with the university generating revenue from location fees and promoting its brand through the exposure. The filming also provides opportunities for Yale students and staff to be involved in the production process, either as extras or interns. However, the filming can also disrupt the university’s academic and research activities, requiring careful planning and coordination to minimize the impact.
How do I request to film at Yale?
+To request to film at Yale, you need to submit a request to the Yale Film Office, providing details about the project, including the script, budget, and schedule. The office will review the request and work with the relevant departments to determine the feasibility of the project.
What are the rules and regulations for filming at Yale?
+The rules and regulations for filming at Yale include obtaining the necessary permits and approvals, respecting the university's academic and research activities, and following the guidelines for filming in sensitive areas such as libraries and museums.
In conclusion, Yale University has been a popular filming location for many years, with its stunning architecture, historic buildings, and picturesque surroundings making it an attractive location for filmmakers. The university’s filming history, architecture, and impact of filming on the university are all significant aspects of its relationship with the film industry. By understanding these aspects, we can appreciate the importance of Yale as a filming location and the opportunities it provides for filmmakers and the university community.
