Discover the iconic Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach, which has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows over the years.
If you’re wondering which movie specifically featured the hotel, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Fontainebleau’s history and its appearances on the big and small screens.
The History of the Fontainebleau Hotel
The Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach is a legendary resort that has been a popular destination for celebrities and high-profile guests since its inception. Here is a brief history of this iconic hotel:
Origins and Construction
The Fontainebleau Hotel was designed by renowned architect Morris Lapidus and opened its doors on December 20, 1954. The hotel was named after the Château de Fontainebleau, a royal palace located near Paris, France. The Fontainebleau was built at a cost of $14 million, which was a staggering amount of money at the time.
The hotel’s distinctive design incorporated elements such as sweeping curves, bowtie-shaped columns, and a grand staircase that has become one of the hotel’s most recognizable features. The Fontainebleau also boasted state-of-the-art amenities such as a 17,000 square foot spa, a large pool, and a variety of dining and entertainment options.
Golden Era of the 1950s and 1960s
The Fontainebleau Hotel quickly became a hotspot for the rich and famous. Celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and Judy Garland were frequent guests, and the hotel was often used as a filming location for movies and TV shows. In fact, the James Bond film “Goldfinger” was partially filmed at the Fontainebleau in 1964.
During the 1950s and 1960s, the Fontainebleau was also known for its glamorous events and parties. The hotel’s grand ballrooms hosted performances by famous musicians and dancers, and the hotel’s restaurants and bars were popular hangouts for celebrities and socialites.
Recent Renovations and Ownership Changes
Over the years, the Fontainebleau Hotel has undergone several ownership changes and renovations. In 2005, the hotel was purchased by Turnberry Associates and underwent a $1 billion renovation that added two new towers and updated the hotel’s amenities. Today, the Fontainebleau is known for its luxury accommodations, high-end dining options, and world-class spa.
It is worth mentioning that the Fontainebleau is not the only iconic hotel in Miami Beach. Other popular hotels in the area include the Eden Roc Miami Beach, the Loews Miami Beach Hotel, and the Delano South Beach. However, the Fontainebleau remains one of the most recognizable and beloved hotels in the city.
| Fontainebleau Hotel | Eden Roc Miami Beach | Loews Miami Beach Hotel | Delano South Beach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Opened in 1954 | Opened in 1956 | Opened in 1998 | Opened in 1995 |
| Designed by Morris Lapidus | Designed by Morris Lapidus | Designed by Arquitectonica | Designed by Philippe Starck |
| 17,000 square foot spa | Spa and fitness center | Exhale Spa and fitness center | Agua Spa |
Keep in mind that while the Fontainebleau is a luxurious and iconic hotel, it is not the only option for travelers visiting Miami Beach. Visitors can choose from a variety of hotels that offer different amenities and price points.
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the hospitality industry, and many hotels in Miami Beach have had to close or reduce their operations. However, it is expected that the industry will rebound in the coming years as more people feel comfortable traveling again.
Remember that when planning a trip to Miami Beach, it is important to research different hotels and read reviews from previous guests. This can help you find the best hotel for your needs and ensure that you have a memorable and enjoyable stay.
Movies Filmed at the Fontainebleau
The Fontainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach has been the backdrop for many famous movies over the years, including some big blockbusters. Here are some of the most notable movies that have been filmed at this iconic hotel:
- The James Bond Connection: Goldfinger and Thunderball
- The Bodyguard
- Scarface
- The Specialist
- Other Movies Filmed at the Hotel
Two of the most popular James Bond movies, Goldfinger and Thunderball, were filmed at the Fontainebleau Hotel in the 1960s. The hotel was the perfect location for the films, with its luxurious and modern amenities. James Bond fans will recognize several iconic scenes from these movies that were filmed at the hotel.
The 1992 hit movie The Bodyguard, starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, also featured the Fontainebleau Hotel. In the movie, the hotel was portrayed as a high-end location where Houston’s character stayed during her tour.
The famous gangster movie Scarface from 1983 also had scenes filmed at the Fontainebleau Hotel. In the movie, the hotel was used as a stand-in for a fictional hotel in Miami Beach where Al Pacino’s character stayed.
The 1994 action movie The Specialist, starring Sylvester Stallone and Sharon Stone, was also filmed at the Fontainebleau Hotel. The movie featured several scenes filmed at the hotel’s pool area and restaurants.
Aside from the movies mentioned above, the Fontainebleau Hotel has also been featured in other films such as License to Kill, Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach, and Marley & Me. The hotel’s luxurious and modern features make it a great location for filmmakers.
TV Shows Filmed at the Fontainebleau
When it comes to luxurious hotels featured in TV shows, Fontainebleau Miami Beach is one of the most iconic locations in the entertainment industry. This luxurious hotel has been seen in various TV shows and movies over the years.
One of the most popular TV shows that was filmed at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach is CSI: Miami. The hotel was featured in various episodes of the show, and its luxurious rooms and amenities were always shown in great detail.
Another TV show that gave the Fontainebleau Miami Beach some screen time is Grand Theft Auto: Vice City. This video game is set in Miami in the 1980s, and the Fontainebleau was recreated in the game as “The Ocean View Hotel”.
The Sopranos is another TV show that used the Fontainebleau Miami Beach as a filming location. In season 6 of the show, the hotel was used as a backdrop for a scene where Tony Soprano and his family were vacationing in Miami.
Ballers, a TV show that follows the lives of football players and their families, also filmed scenes at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. The hotel was used as a location for a high-end party in the show.
Aside from the TV shows mentioned above, the Fontainebleau Miami Beach has also been featured in other shows like The Glades, Burn Notice, and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. In each of these shows, the hotel’s luxurious amenities and stunning architecture were showcased in great detail.
It is worth mentioning that the Fontainebleau Miami Beach has always been a popular location for movies and TV shows. Its iconic design and luxurious amenities make it a perfect backdrop for any Hollywood production. If you’re a fan of TV shows and movies, keep in mind that the Fontainebleau Miami Beach might just be a location you’ll recognize the next time you watch your favorite show.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Fontainebleau Hotel has a rich history and has been a popular location for filmmakers and TV producers for decades.
From James Bond to The Sopranos, the hotel has been featured in many iconic movies and shows, making it a must-visit destination for film buffs and TV enthusiasts.
Next time you’re in Miami Beach, be sure to check out the Fontainebleau and see where some of your favorite movies and TV shows were filmed.
