Was an American in Paris Filmed on Location?

By Anna Duncan

American in Paris is a classic Hollywood musical that was released in 1951. The movie is still cherished by people worldwide, and it has become a cultural phenomenon.

The movie’s plot revolves around an ex-GI who stays in Paris to become a painter and falls in love with a French girl. As the story unfolds, we see beautiful shots of Paris, making us wonder: Was An American in Paris filmed on location

Overview of An American in Paris

An American in Paris is directed by Vincente Minnelli and stars Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron. The movie features some of the greatest songs composed by George Gershwin, including “I Got Rhythm” and “S’Wonderful.” Moreover, the film’s breathtaking dance sequences are still considered some of the best choreography put on screen.

Parisian Setting

The movie’s setting is one of its most enticing parts. An American in Paris takes place entirely in France, with most scenes occurring within the city of love itself – Paris. The film showcases iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame de Paris, and the Seine River.

Filming Locations

Now coming to the question: Was An American in Paris filmed on location Yes! The majority of the movie was shot on location around various parts of Paris.

  • The opening sequence was filmed at Quai de la Tournelle along the Seine River.
  • The iconic “I Got Rhythm” dance sequence was filmed at Bois de Boulogne.
  • The final scene at a flower market was shot at Les Halles Centrales.

Moreover, several other scenes were filmed across different locations like Champs-Elysees Avenue, Montmartre, and Place du Tertre.

Studios

Although the majority of An American in Paris was filmed on location, some scenes were too complicated to shoot on the streets. Some of the dance sequences were shot in studios in Hollywood, California.

Studio Set Design

The studio scenes were designed to match the Parisian aesthetic. The art director, E. Preston Ames, recreated different parts of Paris within the studio walls.

Conclusion

In conclusion, An American in Paris was filmed on location for most parts. The movie’s stunning visuals of Paris make it a treat to watch even after seventy years of its release. The film’s iconic dance sequences and beautiful music have made it an all-time classic; we can only hope that future generations will cherish it as much as we do.