Where Was Paris Blues Filmed?

By Michael Ferguson

Paris Blues is a 1961 film that was directed by Martin Ritt and starred celebrated actors like Paul Newman, Sidney Poitier, Joanne Woodward, and Diahann Carroll. The movie was set in Paris, and it depicted the lives of two American jazz musicians who were living in the city.

But where exactly was Paris Blues filmed? Let’s take a closer look.

The Filming Locations

Paris Blues is renowned for its breathtaking cinematography that captures the essence of Paris in the early 1960s. The film was shot entirely on-location in the French capital, which added to its authenticity and charm. Here are some of the primary filming locations for Paris Blues:

1. Les Deux Magots

Les Deux Magots is a famous cafe located in Saint-Germain-des-Pres on the Left Bank of Paris. It is known for its literary history and was frequented by many writers, intellectuals, and artists like Ernest Hemingway, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir. In Paris Blues, Les Deux Magots served as a backdrop for several scenes where the characters socialized over food and drinks.

2. Rue de la Harpe

Rue de la Harpe is a street located in the Latin Quarter of Paris. It is known for its vibrant nightlife scene with many bars, restaurants, and clubs lined along it. In Paris Blues, Rue de la Harpe served as a location for several scenes that showcased the characters’ love for jazz music.

3. Place Dauphine

Place Dauphine is a square located on the western end of Ile de la Cite in central Paris. It is one of the city’s oldest squares and features beautiful architecture from different periods like Gothic and Renaissance. In Paris Blues, Place Dauphine served as a location for several scenes where the characters walked around and talked.

4. Orly Airport

Orly Airport is an international airport located in the southern suburbs of Paris. In Paris Blues, Orly Airport served as a location for the opening scene where the two main characters, Eddie and Del, arrived in Paris.

Conclusion

Paris Blues is a classic film that captured the essence of Paris in the early 1960s. The movie’s on-location filming gave it an authentic feel that made it even more enjoyable to watch. From Les Deux Magots to Orly Airport, these filming locations provided a beautiful backdrop for the characters’ story to unfold.