If you’re a fan of classic musicals, then you’re probably familiar with the iconic film, An American in Paris. Released in 1951, this movie is a beloved masterpiece that tells the story of an American soldier who falls in love with a French girl while living in post-World War II Paris.
But have you ever wondered where the movie was filmed? Let’s take a closer look.
The Plot
Before we dive into the filming locations, let’s briefly recap the plot of An American in Paris. The movie follows Jerry Mulligan, played by Gene Kelly, as he tries to make it as an artist in Paris.
Along the way, he meets and falls in love with Lise Bouvier, played by Leslie Caron. However, Lise is already engaged to Henri Baurel, played by Georges Guétary. The rest of the film follows Jerry as he tries to win Lise’s heart while also dealing with his own personal and professional struggles.
The Filming Locations
Now that we’ve refreshed our memories about the plot, let’s talk about where An American in Paris was filmed. As you might expect from a movie set in Paris, many of the outdoor scenes were shot on location throughout the city.
One of the most memorable scenes from the film takes place along the banks of the Seine River. This scene features Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron dancing together on a bridge while surrounded by picturesque views of Paris. This scene was filmed on location at Pont de la Tournelle, a bridge that spans the Seine near Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Another famous scene from An American in Paris takes place at Montmartre Cemetery. In this scene, Gene Kelly sings “I Got Rhythm” while various characters dance around him among gravestones and tombs. Montmartre Cemetery is located in the Montmartre neighborhood of Paris and is the final resting place of many famous artists and writers.
Other notable filming locations for An American in Paris include the Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Élysées, and the Bois de Boulogne. The movie also features several interior scenes that were shot on soundstages in California.
The Legacy
An American in Paris remains one of the most beloved musicals of all time, thanks in large part to its memorable songs, stunning choreography, and beautiful visuals. The film’s use of real locations throughout Paris helps to transport viewers into the heart of the city, making it feel like a character in its own right.
If you’re a fan of classic movies or just looking for a little bit of old-fashioned romance, then An American in Paris is definitely worth checking out. And now that you know where it was filmed, you can even plan your own trip to see some of these iconic locations in person.