The 2015 comedy-drama, starring Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway, features numerous New York City locations as its backdrop. Key scenes were shot in Brooklyn’s trendy DUMBO neighborhood, showcasing its cobblestone streets and views of the Manhattan Bridge. Other notable filming sites include the borough of Manhattan itself, particularly in neighborhoods like Greenwich Village and Tribeca, contributing to the film’s authentic portrayal of city life.
Establishing a believable setting is crucial for a film’s success, especially when a specific location plays a significant role in the narrative. The chosen filming locations for this particular movie enhance the story’s realism and contribute to its overall aesthetic. The recognizable cityscape grounds the characters and their interactions, adding depth and visual interest for viewers familiar with New York City. Furthermore, showcasing these areas often boosts tourism and generates local economic activity.
This focus on filming locations allows for deeper exploration of various aspects of filmmaking, from location scouting and logistical challenges to the impact of setting on narrative and character development. Understanding these elements provides a richer appreciation for the final product seen on screen.
1. New York City
New York City serves as the primary backdrop for the movie, significantly influencing its visual style and narrative. The city’s distinct character, recognizable architecture, and vibrant energy become integral to the film’s overall aesthetic and storytelling.
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Visual Identity
The film leverages New York City’s iconic skyline and diverse neighborhoods to establish a strong visual identity. From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the trendy DUMBO area in Brooklyn, the city’s distinct visual elements contribute to the film’s atmosphere and provide a sense of place. The recognizable cityscape immediately immerses viewers in the narrative’s environment.
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Cultural Context
The city’s dynamic cultural landscape plays a subtle yet significant role. The fast-paced lifestyle, entrepreneurial spirit, and fashion-forward environment depicted in the film resonate with New York City’s cultural fabric. This backdrop adds depth and authenticity to the characters’ interactions and experiences.
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Logistical Considerations
Filming in a major metropolitan area like New York City presents logistical challenges. Obtaining permits, managing crowds, and coordinating complex shooting schedules within a busy urban environment require meticulous planning and execution. These logistical considerations influence the overall production process.
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Economic Impact
Film productions often generate positive economic impact on their chosen locations. Employing local crews, utilizing local businesses, and attracting tourism contribute to the city’s economy. Showcasing New York City in a positive light can also boost its image and attract further investment.
By strategically utilizing New York City’s various facets, the film effectively integrates the urban landscape into its narrative. The city becomes more than just a backdrop; it evolves into a character itself, contributing significantly to the film’s overall impact and resonance with audiences.
2. Brooklyn
Brooklyn’s selection as a key filming location significantly contributes to the overall aesthetic and narrative of the movie. Specifically, the DUMBO neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets, industrial-chic architecture, and stunning Manhattan skyline views, provides a visually compelling backdrop. This area represents a revitalized part of Brooklyn, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit and modern work culture portrayed in the film. The choice of a former Pfizer pharmaceutical building in DUMBO to represent the “About the Fit” offices further anchors the story within a specific, recognizable environment, lending an air of authenticity to the startup’s setting. This choice reinforces the visual narrative of a young, dynamic company operating within a historic, evolving urban landscape.
Beyond DUMBO, other areas of Brooklyn might have been considered but ultimately weren’t utilized for filming. Williamsburg, known for its hipster culture and vibrant arts scene, could have provided a different aesthetic, but perhaps didn’t align with the specific visual tone sought by the filmmakers. Similarly, brownstone-lined neighborhoods like Park Slope, while visually appealing, might have projected a more established, less dynamic image than the startup environment the film aimed to portray. The ultimate selection of DUMBO reflects a deliberate choice to capture a particular visual and thematic representation of Brooklyn, aligning with the film’s narrative goals.
Understanding the specific role of Brooklyn, particularly DUMBO, in the film’s production provides insight into the filmmakers’ location selection process. The chosen locations become integral to the storytelling, contributing not only to the visual backdrop but also to the overall narrative’s sense of place and authenticity. This careful consideration of location underscores the importance of setting in shaping a film’s identity and enhancing its impact on the audience.
3. DUMBO
DUMBO, an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, plays a pivotal role in establishing the visual identity of “The Intern.” This Brooklyn neighborhood provides a distinctive backdrop, characterized by its cobblestone streets, post-industrial architecture, and dramatic views of the Manhattan Bridge. The film leverages these aesthetic elements to create a sense of place, firmly grounding the narrative within a recognizable and visually appealing environment. The choice of DUMBO reflects a deliberate effort to capture the essence of a revitalized urban landscape, mirroring the contemporary, entrepreneurial spirit central to the film’s themes.
The “About the Fit” offices, central to the film’s plot, are located within a repurposed industrial building in DUMBO. This setting reinforces the startup’s image as a dynamic, forward-thinking company operating within a historic yet evolving urban context. The practical implication of filming in DUMBO extends beyond aesthetics. Production benefits from the neighborhood’s distinct visual character, minimizing the need for extensive set design and enhancing the film’s overall realism. Moreover, the area’s manageable size and relatively controlled environment likely facilitated logistical aspects of filming, compared to more congested parts of New York City. The presence of established film production resources and infrastructure within the city further streamlines the process.
DUMBO’s significance in “The Intern” transcends its function as a mere backdrop. It becomes integral to the film’s narrative, visually representing the intersection of tradition and innovation. The neighborhood’s transformation from a manufacturing hub to a creative and technological center parallels the film’s exploration of evolving work dynamics and intergenerational relationships. This nuanced use of location enhances the film’s thematic resonance and contributes to its overall impact. The specific choice of DUMBO ultimately highlights the strategic importance of location scouting in filmmaking, demonstrating how setting can contribute significantly to a film’s visual and narrative success.
4. Manhattan
Manhattan’s inclusion as a filming location for “The Intern” extends beyond simply showcasing iconic New York City imagery. While the film centers around the startup environment in Brooklyn’s DUMBO neighborhood, Manhattan provides a contrasting backdrop, representing established corporate culture and the protagonist’s previous career in traditional media. This juxtaposition between Brooklyn’s dynamism and Manhattan’s established presence creates a visual and thematic tension, reflecting the generational and professional differences explored in the narrative. Specific locations within Manhattan, such as Greenwich Village and Tribeca, contribute to this narrative layering. Greenwich Village, with its historic brownstones and bohemian atmosphere, might represent a more traditional residential setting, contrasting with the modern apartments and workspaces of DUMBO. Tribeca, known for its upscale residential and commercial spaces, could symbolize the corporate world the protagonist navigates. This strategic use of Manhattan locations provides a nuanced exploration of different facets of New York City life.
Filming in Manhattan undoubtedly presents logistical challenges. Permitting processes are complex, traffic congestion can impede schedules, and the sheer density of the urban environment requires careful coordination. However, the benefits outweigh these complexities. Manhattan offers readily recognizable landmarks, diverse architectural styles, and a palpable urban energy that enhances the film’s visual richness and authenticity. The readily available pool of experienced film crews and supporting infrastructure further contributes to the production’s efficiency. This practical aspect, coupled with the symbolic significance of Manhattan within the narrative, reinforces its importance as a filming location. Consider, for example, a scene filmed outside the historic Flatiron Building or amidst the hustle and bustle of Times Square. These locations immediately convey a sense of place and add depth to the narrative without requiring extensive exposition.
In conclusion, Manhattan’s role in “The Intern” is multifaceted. It serves not only as a visually compelling backdrop but also as a symbolic counterpoint to the startup environment of Brooklyn. This juxtaposition enhances the film’s thematic exploration of generational and professional transitions, adding layers of meaning to the narrative. While logistical complexities exist, the practical advantages and symbolic significance of filming in Manhattan contribute significantly to the film’s overall impact. The careful selection of specific Manhattan locations, like Greenwich Village and Tribeca, demonstrates a deliberate approach to location scouting, highlighting the power of setting in enriching a film’s narrative and visual storytelling.
5. Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village’s inclusion as a filming location in “The Intern” adds a layer of cultural and historical significance to the narrative. While not the primary setting, its presence contributes to the film’s depiction of New York City’s diverse urban landscape, contrasting with the more modern, industrial aesthetic of DUMBO, Brooklyn, where the startup company is located. This contrast underscores the generational and professional disparities explored in the film, juxtaposing the protagonist’s established background with the fast-paced world of a contemporary online business. Greenwich Village’s unique atmosphere and architectural style enrich the visual narrative, providing a glimpse into a different facet of New York City life.
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Residential Backdrop
Greenwich Village primarily serves as a residential backdrop, possibly representing the protagonist’s established life outside the startup environment. Its historic brownstones and tree-lined streets offer a visual counterpoint to the modern, open-plan offices of DUMBO. This contrast subtly reinforces the thematic exploration of generational differences in lifestyle and work environments. The choice of Greenwich Village as a residential location might also allude to the character’s established roots and connection to a more traditional New York City experience.
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Cultural Significance
Historically, Greenwich Village has been a hub for artists, writers, and intellectuals, fostering a unique cultural atmosphere. While the film may not explicitly delve into this history, the neighborhood’s inherent cultural significance subtly informs the narrative. It suggests a connection to a more established, perhaps even bohemian, past, further contrasting with the fast-paced, entrepreneurial spirit of the startup world. This implicit cultural context adds depth to the film’s exploration of contrasting values and lifestyles.
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Visual Contrast
Visually, Greenwich Village offers a distinct aesthetic contrast to the industrial-chic environment of DUMBO. The brownstone architecture, tree-lined streets, and independent businesses create a different visual texture, enriching the film’s overall visual palette. This contrast emphasizes the diverse urban landscape of New York City and subtly reinforces the narrative’s exploration of different generational perspectives and work environments.
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Logistical Considerations
From a logistical perspective, filming in Greenwich Village presents certain challenges. Its narrow streets and residential nature require careful coordination to minimize disruption to residents and manage the complexities of film production. However, the neighborhood’s distinct visual character and cultural significance offer unique advantages, outweighing the logistical considerations. The presence of readily available support services and experienced film crews within New York City also streamlines the production process.
Greenwich Village’s presence in “The Intern” adds a layer of complexity to the film’s visual and thematic tapestry. By contrasting the established residential environment of Greenwich Village with the dynamic startup culture of DUMBO, the film subtly reinforces its exploration of generational and professional differences. The neighborhood’s inherent cultural significance and distinct visual character contribute to the film’s overall aesthetic richness, enhancing its portrayal of New York City’s diverse urban landscape. The careful selection of Greenwich Village as a filming location underscores the strategic importance of setting in shaping a film’s narrative and visual storytelling.
6. Tribeca
Tribeca’s inclusion in the filming locations of “The Intern” contributes to the film’s portrayal of diverse professional environments within New York City. While the primary setting, DUMBO, represents a burgeoning startup culture, Tribeca embodies established corporate success and affluence. This contrast underscores the film’s exploration of differing work cultures and generational perspectives on professional life. The protagonist’s navigation of these distinct environmentsthe dynamic, informal atmosphere of the startup versus the more traditional, potentially hierarchical structure implied by Tribeca’s corporate presencevisually reinforces the film’s thematic tensions. Tribeca’s upscale architecture and reputation as a hub for media and finance further solidify this visual representation of established corporate power. The specific choice of Tribeca likely serves to visually communicate the protagonist’s prior career in a more traditional corporate setting, providing context for his current role as an intern in a startup. This juxtaposition allows the film to explore themes of adaptation and changing professional landscapes without explicit exposition.
The practical implications of filming in Tribeca extend beyond its symbolic representation of corporate culture. Its distinct architectural style, featuring converted warehouses and upscale residential buildings, offers a visually rich backdrop that requires minimal set design. Furthermore, its proximity to other Manhattan filming locations likely streamlined logistical aspects of production, maximizing efficiency. However, filming in Tribeca presents inherent challenges. Securing permits, managing pedestrian traffic, and coordinating complex shooting schedules within a densely populated area require meticulous planning and execution. The costs associated with filming in such a prime location also represent a significant budgetary consideration. Despite these challenges, the benefits of filming in Tribecaits visual appeal, symbolic significance, and proximity to other key locationsclearly contributed to the filmmakers’ decision to include it in the production.
In summary, Tribeca’s role in “The Intern” extends beyond its function as a mere backdrop. Its inclusion provides a visual and thematic counterpoint to the startup environment of DUMBO, enriching the film’s exploration of evolving work cultures and intergenerational relationships. While practical challenges exist, Tribeca’s distinct visual character and symbolic representation of established corporate success ultimately enhance the film’s narrative depth and visual storytelling. The strategic choice of Tribeca as a filming location demonstrates the significant impact of setting on a film’s ability to communicate complex themes and engage audiences on multiple levels.
7. About the Fit
“About the Fit,” the fictional online fashion retailer central to “The Intern,” is intrinsically linked to the film’s chosen locations. The company’s physical setting within a converted industrial building in DUMBO, Brooklyn, directly influences the visual aesthetic and narrative. This setting provides a tangible representation of the contemporary startup culture, juxtaposing the dynamic energy of a young company with the historical context of its physical location. Examining specific facets of “About the Fit” reveals a deeper understanding of how the film leverages location to enhance its storytelling.
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Startup Environment
The depiction of “About the Fit” offices aims for authenticity, reflecting the open-plan layouts, collaborative workspaces, and informal atmosphere commonly associated with startup companies. This visual representation reinforces the narrative’s focus on a dynamic, rapidly evolving work environment. The choice of DUMBO, a neighborhood known for its blend of historic architecture and modern creative industries, further strengthens this portrayal, aligning the fictional company with a real-world environment recognized for innovation and entrepreneurship.
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DUMBO Location
DUMBO’s visual characteristics, featuring cobblestone streets, converted industrial buildings, and dramatic views of the Manhattan Bridge, become integral to the portrayal of “About the Fit.” The neighborhood’s aesthetic contributes significantly to the film’s overall visual identity, grounding the fictional company within a recognizable and visually compelling environment. The specific choice of a former Pfizer building adds a layer of historical context, subtly referencing Brooklyn’s industrial past and its ongoing transformation into a hub for creative industries.
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Visual Storytelling
The film utilizes the “About the Fit” offices and the surrounding DUMBO neighborhood to enhance its visual storytelling. The bustling workspaces, informal meetings, and interactions within the office environment provide visual cues about the company’s culture and the characters’ roles within it. Exterior shots showcasing DUMBO’s distinctive architecture and vibrant street life further contribute to the narrative, providing a sense of place and grounding the story within a tangible reality.
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Contrast with Traditional Corporate Settings
The DUMBO location of “About the Fit” provides a visual and thematic contrast to the more traditional corporate settings depicted in the film, such as those located in Manhattan’s Tribeca neighborhood. This contrast underscores the narrative’s exploration of evolving work cultures and generational differences in professional life. The juxtaposition between the startup’s dynamic, informal environment and the more established, potentially hierarchical corporate world of Tribeca reinforces the film’s thematic tensions.
In conclusion, “About the Fit” is not merely a fictional entity within the film; it represents a carefully constructed element that interacts dynamically with the chosen filming locations. The company’s physical setting in DUMBO, its visual representation of startup culture, and its contrast with more traditional corporate environments all contribute to the film’s exploration of evolving work dynamics and intergenerational relationships. The strategic choice of location and its detailed visual representation underscore the importance of setting in shaping a film’s narrative and enhancing its thematic resonance.
8. Visual Storytelling
Visual storytelling in “The Intern” relies heavily on the chosen filming locations. The specific settings contribute significantly to the narrative, conveying information about characters, relationships, and themes without relying solely on dialogue. The locations become integral to the storytelling process, enriching the narrative through visual cues and atmospheric details.
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Establishing Character
The contrast between the bustling, modern offices of “About the Fit” in DUMBO and the more traditional, residential setting of Greenwich Village helps establish the protagonist’s character. His navigation of these distinct environments visually represents his journey from an established career to a new internship, highlighting his adaptability and the generational shift in work culture. The locations become visual shorthand for his personal and professional transition.
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Reinforcing Themes
The film’s themes of evolving work dynamics and intergenerational relationships are reinforced through visual storytelling. The juxtaposition of DUMBO’s revitalized industrial spaces, representing the startup’s innovative spirit, with the established corporate environment of Tribeca visually underscores these thematic tensions. The locations themselves become symbolic representations of the contrasting values and work styles explored in the narrative.
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Creating Atmosphere
The distinct atmospheres of DUMBO, with its cobblestone streets and views of the Manhattan Bridge, and Greenwich Village, with its historic brownstones and tree-lined streets, contribute significantly to the film’s overall mood and tone. These visual elements create a sense of place, immersing the viewer in the characters’ world and enhancing the emotional impact of the story. The locations evoke specific feelings and associations, contributing to the film’s overall emotional landscape.
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Conveying Information Non-Verbally
Visual details within the chosen locations convey information without relying on dialogue. The open-plan office layout of “About the Fit” visually communicates the collaborative nature of the startup environment. Similarly, the bustling streets of Manhattan and the quieter, residential feel of Greenwich Village provide non-verbal cues about the characters’ lifestyles and the pace of their respective worlds. The locations effectively communicate narrative details through visual observation.
The film’s visual storytelling is inextricably linked to its chosen locations. DUMBO, Greenwich Village, Tribeca, and other New York City settings contribute significantly to character development, thematic reinforcement, and atmospheric creation. By leveraging the visual power of these locations, “The Intern” effectively communicates complex narratives and emotional nuances, enriching the viewer’s understanding and engagement with the story. The film demonstrates how strategic location choices can become a powerful tool for visual storytelling, enhancing the narrative’s depth and impact.
Frequently Asked Questions about Filming Locations
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the filming locations of “The Intern,” providing further insight into the production’s choices and their impact on the film.
Question 1: Why was New York City chosen as the primary filming location?
New York City provides a recognizable and iconic backdrop, immediately establishing a specific cultural and professional context. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, architectural styles, and fast-paced atmosphere contribute significantly to the film’s visual storytelling and thematic exploration of contemporary work culture.
Question 2: What is the significance of DUMBO as a filming location?
DUMBO’s post-industrial aesthetic, featuring cobblestone streets, converted warehouses, and dramatic views of the Manhattan Bridge, visually represents the revitalized urban landscape and entrepreneurial spirit central to the film’s themes. The specific choice of a former Pfizer building for the “About the Fit” offices further grounds the fictional company within a recognizable and historically relevant environment.
Question 3: How does the film utilize Manhattan locations to enhance the narrative?
Manhattan locations, such as Greenwich Village and Tribeca, provide contrasting backdrops to the startup environment of DUMBO. These neighborhoods represent established corporate culture and residential settings, visually reinforcing the film’s exploration of generational and professional differences.
Question 4: What were the logistical challenges of filming in New York City?
Filming in New York City presents inherent logistical complexities, including securing permits, managing traffic and crowds, and coordinating shooting schedules within a densely populated urban environment. However, the city’s established film production infrastructure and readily available resources often mitigate these challenges.
Question 5: How does the choice of filming locations contribute to the film’s visual storytelling?
The diverse locations visually communicate information about characters, relationships, and themes. The contrast between DUMBO and Manhattan, for example, reinforces the narrative’s exploration of evolving work cultures and generational differences. The specific settings become integral to the storytelling process, enriching the narrative through visual cues and atmospheric details.
Question 6: Beyond the visual appeal, what practical benefits do these locations offer for filmmaking?
The chosen locations offer practical benefits such as existing infrastructure, experienced film crews, and readily available resources. DUMBO’s manageable size and relatively controlled environment, compared to other parts of New York City, likely facilitated smoother production logistics. Additionally, filming in recognizable locations reduces the need for extensive set design, contributing to cost efficiency.
Understanding the strategic selection of filming locations provides a deeper appreciation for the film’s visual storytelling and thematic resonance. The chosen environments become more than mere backdrops; they actively contribute to the narrative, enriching the viewer’s understanding and engagement with the story.
Further exploration of specific scenes and their respective locations can reveal additional insights into the filmmakers’ artistic choices and their impact on the overall cinematic experience.
Tips for Aspiring Filmmakers
Examining the location choices of successful films offers valuable insights for aspiring filmmakers. “The Intern,” with its strategic use of New York City locations, provides a compelling case study for understanding the impact of setting on narrative and visual storytelling.
Tip 1: Research Locations Thoroughly: Understanding a location’s history, cultural significance, and visual characteristics is crucial. “The Intern” leverages DUMBO’s industrial-chic aesthetic and Greenwich Village’s historic charm to create distinct atmospheres and reinforce thematic contrasts. Thorough research ensures locations align with the narrative’s needs.
Tip 2: Consider Logistical Practicalities: While a location’s visual appeal is essential, logistical factors like permitting processes, accessibility, and local resources must be considered. Filming in a bustling metropolis like New York City presents unique challenges that require careful planning and coordination.
Tip 3: Maximize Visual Storytelling: Locations should contribute to the narrative beyond simply serving as backdrops. “The Intern” uses contrasting environments, such as DUMBO and Tribeca, to visually represent thematic tensions and character development. Locations should enhance the storytelling process.
Tip 4: Balance Aesthetics with Budget: Visually compelling locations can significantly enhance a film, but budgetary constraints must be considered. DUMBO’s readily available infrastructure and recognizable architecture potentially offered cost-saving advantages for “The Intern’s” production.
Tip 5: Collaborate with Location Scouts: Experienced location scouts possess invaluable local knowledge and can assist in identifying ideal filming locations that meet both creative and logistical requirements. Their expertise streamlines the process and ensures optimal location choices.
Tip 6: Think Beyond the Visual: Consider how a location’s cultural and historical context can enrich the narrative. Greenwich Village’s historical significance as a hub for artists and intellectuals adds a subtle layer of meaning to “The Intern,” enhancing the film’s thematic depth.
By carefully considering these factors, filmmakers can leverage location choices to enhance their storytelling, create compelling visuals, and maximize production efficiency. The strategic use of setting, as demonstrated in “The Intern,” elevates filmmaking from mere documentation to a nuanced art form.
The following conclusion synthesizes the key takeaways regarding the film’s locations and their overall impact on the cinematic experience.
Conclusion
The filming locations of “The Intern” are more than mere backdrops; they are integral components of the film’s narrative and visual storytelling. From the bustling startup environment of DUMBO, Brooklyn, to the established corporate landscapes of Manhattan, each location contributes a distinct layer of meaning. The juxtaposition of these diverse settingsDUMBO’s cobblestone streets and converted warehouses against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline, contrasted with the historic brownstones of Greenwich Village and the upscale architecture of Tribecavisually reinforces the film’s exploration of evolving work cultures and intergenerational relationships. The strategic choice of a former Pfizer building in DUMBO to represent the “About the Fit” offices adds a layer of historical context, subtly linking the startup’s dynamic present to Brooklyn’s industrial past. This nuanced use of location elevates the film beyond a simple narrative, transforming the urban landscape into a dynamic character that interacts with and shapes the protagonists’ journeys.
The film’s careful selection of locations offers a valuable lesson in the power of setting. “The Intern” demonstrates how strategic location choices can enrich storytelling, enhance visual appeal, and deepen thematic resonance. By understanding the multifaceted role of location in filmmaking, audiences gain a richer appreciation for the cinematic experience and the deliberate artistic choices that shape it. This exploration encourages viewers to look beyond the surface and consider how environment contributes to the overall impact and meaning of a film. The chosen locations in “The Intern” serve as a compelling example of how setting can become a powerful storytelling tool, enriching the narrative and leaving a lasting impression.
