In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of movies and TV shows that capture the vibrant essence of New York City. From iconic classics to contemporary favorites, this collection celebrates the Big Apple’s magnetic allure. Explore the gritty streets of Manhattan, go on thrilling taxi rides with unforgettable characters, and witness the rise and fall of power on Wall Street. Immerse yourself in the lives of friends navigating the city’s ups and downs, get entangled in the captivating web of mafia families, and delve into the lives of Madison Avenue’s advertising elite. These cinematic creations transport you to the heart of New York, where dreams are made, shattered, and reborn amidst the dazzling chaos of the city that never sleeps.
Best Movies about New York
1. Manhattan (1979)
Manhattan is a romantic comedy-drama set in the bustling city of New York. The story revolves around Isaac, a middle-aged television writer who is dating Tracy, a 17-year-old girl. However, their relationship becomes complicated when Isaac falls in love with Mary, his best friend’s mistress. As Isaac tries to navigate his romantic entanglements, he grapples with the complexities of love, commitment, and personal happiness against the backdrop of the beautiful and iconic Manhattan skyline.
2. Taxi Driver (1976)
Taxi Driver follows Travis Bickle, a lonely Vietnam War veteran who becomes a night-shift taxi driver in New York City. Overwhelmed by his disillusionment with society and disgusted by the city’s corruption, Travis descends into a violent and disturbed mental state. He becomes fixated on cleaning the streets of “scum” and becomes infatuated with a campaign worker named Betsy. As Travis’s mental instability worsens, he embarks on a dangerous path that ultimately leads to a shocking and explosive climax.
3. Annie Hall (1977)
Annie Hall is a romantic comedy that delves into the complex relationship between Alvy Singer, a neurotic comedian, and Annie Hall, an aspiring singer. Through a series of flashbacks and comedic moments, the film explores their tumultuous love affair, highlighting the ups and downs of their quirky personalities and differing outlooks on life. As Alvy and Annie navigate their romantic struggles and personal insecurities, they provide a candid and humorous exploration of love, loss, and the challenges of maintaining a meaningful connection in the modern world.
4. The Godfather (1972)
The Godfather is a gripping crime drama that follows the Corleone family, led by the powerful and cunning Don Vito Corleone. Set in 1940s New York, the story revolves around the family’s involvement in organized crime and the battle for power within the Mafia hierarchy. As Vito’s youngest son, Michael, becomes embroiled in the family business, he undergoes a transformation from a reluctant outsider to a ruthless and strategic leader. The film explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the dark consequences of a life immersed in crime.
5. The Godfather Part II (1974)
The Godfather Part II is a crime drama film that follows the parallel stories of Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) and his father, Vito Corleone (Robert De Niro). In the 1950s, Michael expands the Corleone crime empire, facing challenges from rival families and grappling with his own inner demons. Meanwhile, the film also delves into Vito’s early life in 1920s New York, tracing his rise to power and the origins of the Corleone family. With its intricate storytelling and compelling performances, The Godfather Part II explores themes of family, power, and the consequences of a life in organized crime.
6. Raging Bull (1980)
Raging Bull is a biographical sports drama that portrays the life of boxer Jake LaMotta (Robert De Niro). Set primarily in the 1940s and ’50s, the film delves into LaMotta’s personal struggles, including his volatile temper, his turbulent relationship with his wife, and his self-destructive tendencies. Directed by Martin Scorsese, Raging Bull is a raw and visceral exploration of masculinity, violence, and the destructive nature of unchecked ambition. De Niro’s transformative performance and Scorsese’s masterful direction make it a cinematic masterpiece.
7. When Harry Met Sally… (1989)
When Harry Met Sally… is a romantic comedy that follows the evolving relationship between Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) over the course of several years. The film begins with their initial dislike for each other and traces their chance encounters and burgeoning friendship. As they navigate the complexities of love and relationships, the question arises whether men and women can truly be just friends without romantic entanglements. Directed by Rob Reiner, When Harry Met Sally… is a charming and witty exploration of love, friendship, and the passage of time.
8. Wall Street (1987)
Wall Street is a drama film that offers a glimpse into the high-stakes world of corporate greed and unethical practices. The story revolves around ambitious young stockbroker Bud Fox (Charlie Sheen) who becomes entangled with the ruthless and influential financier Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas). Bud is seduced by Gekko’s lavish lifestyle and insider trading strategies, but soon finds himself torn between loyalty to his father and the temptations of wealth and power. Directed by Oliver Stone, Wall Street is a cautionary tale that exposes the dark underbelly of Wall Street and the moral compromises it demands.
9. Sex and the City (2008)
Four fashionable New York women navigate their complex relationships, careers, and love lives in this romantic comedy. Carrie Bradshaw, a witty writer, chronicles her experiences and those of her three best friends: Samantha, a confident PR executive; Charlotte, an art dealer looking for love; and Miranda, a no-nonsense lawyer. Together, they explore the highs and lows of dating, friendships, and the pursuit of happiness in the bustling city of New York, while facing personal and professional challenges. Sex and the City offers a delightful blend of fashion, humor, and heartfelt moments as these women navigate life’s adventures.
10. The Departed (2006)
Set in Boston, The Departed follows two men on opposite sides of the law. Billy Costigan, a young undercover cop, infiltrates the Irish mob led by Frank Costello. Simultaneously, Colin Sullivan, a rising star within the Massachusetts State Police, becomes a mole for Costello. As both sides race to uncover the other’s identity, tension escalates and loyalties are tested. Filled with twists, betrayals, and intense cat-and-mouse games, this gripping crime thriller, directed by Martin Scorsese, explores themes of loyalty, identity, and the blurred lines between good and evil in the criminal underworld.
Best TV shows about New York
11. Seinfeld (1989-1998)
“Seinfeld” is a sitcom that revolves around the lives of Jerry Seinfeld, his eccentric friends, and the mundane yet hilarious situations they find themselves in. Jerry, a stand-up comedian, is joined by his best friend George, the neurotic underachiever, Elaine, his ex-girlfriend with a sharp tongue, and Kramer, the unpredictable neighbor. The show follows their misadventures in New York City, tackling everyday topics with wit and sarcasm. From dealing with “close talkers” to exploring bizarre social conventions, “Seinfeld” became a cultural phenomenon known for its observational humor and memorable catchphrases.
12. Friends (1994-2004)
“Friends” follows the lives of six close-knit friends – Monica, Ross, Chandler, Joey, Rachel, and Phoebe – as they navigate the ups and downs of life in Manhattan. Set in the heart of New York City, the show delves into their personal and professional struggles, romantic relationships, and endless banter. With their iconic hangout spot at Central Perk, the friends share laughter, tears, and countless memorable moments. “Friends” captures the essence of friendship and has become a beloved series known for its unforgettable characters and hilarious situations.
13. The Sopranos (1999-2007)
“The Sopranos” is a gripping drama that centers around Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss, struggling to balance his criminal activities with family life. Tony seeks therapy to deal with his personal demons, providing a unique glimpse into the mind of a complex character. The show explores the intricate dynamics of Tony’s crime family, his relationships with his wife, children, and fellow mobsters. With its intense storytelling and exploration of morality, “The Sopranos” redefined television drama, delivering a compelling narrative and an unflinching portrayal of the dark underworld.
14. Mad Men (2007-2015)
“Mad Men” takes viewers into the glamorous and cutthroat world of 1960s advertising on Madison Avenue. The show follows the life of Don Draper, a talented and enigmatic creative director at the Sterling Cooper advertising agency. As Draper and his colleagues navigate the evolving cultural landscape, they struggle with personal demons, office politics, and the constant pressure to create groundbreaking campaigns. “Mad Men” offers a captivating glimpse into the era’s social dynamics, exploring themes of identity, gender roles, and the price of success in an era of changing values.
15. Girls (2012-2017)
“Girls” is a dramedy series that follows the lives of four young women navigating their way through early adulthood in New York City. Created by Lena Dunham, the show explores the complexities of relationships, career aspirations, and personal growth. Hannah (Lena Dunham), Marnie (Allison Williams), Jessa (Jemima Kirke), and Shoshanna (Zosia Mamet) face various challenges, from romantic entanglements to professional setbacks, as they strive to find their identities and forge their paths in the big city. With its honest portrayal of modern-day struggles, “Girls” offers a relatable and often humorous take on the complexities of adulthood.
16. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” is a critically acclaimed comedy-drama set in 1950s Manhattan. The series follows the life of Miriam “Midge” Maisel (Rachel Brosnahan), a housewife who discovers her talent for stand-up comedy after her husband leaves her. Midge embarks on a journey to pursue a career in comedy, challenging societal norms and breaking new ground in the male-dominated industry. With wit, charm, and a unique perspective, Midge navigates the challenges of balancing her personal life, her ambitions, and her newfound passion for comedy, all while trying to find her own voice.
17. Succession
“Succession” is a gripping drama series centered around the Roy family, owners of a global media and entertainment conglomerate. The show delves into the complex dynamics and power struggles within the wealthy and influential family as they vie for control over the company. Led by patriarch Logan Roy (Brian Cox), each family member, including his children Kendall (Jeremy Strong), Roman (Kieran Culkin), and Shiv (Sarah Snook), must navigate their own ambitions, loyalty, and familial rivalries. With its sharp writing, compelling performances, and exploration of wealth and power, “Succession” provides a fascinating look into the high-stakes world of corporate dynasties.
18. The Deuce (2017-2019)
“The Deuce” is a gritty drama series set in New York City during the 1970s and ’80s, exploring the rise of the porn industry and its impact on the local community. The show follows the lives of various characters, including twin brothers Vincent (James Franco) and Frankie Martino (James Franco), sex workers, pimps, police officers, and bar owners. Through their interconnected stories, “The Deuce” examines the social and cultural changes that occurred during this transformative period in New York’s history. With its raw portrayal of the adult entertainment industry and its exploration of themes like corruption and survival, “The Deuce” offers a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.
19. The Knick (2014-2015)
Set in the early 1900s, “The Knick” follows the brilliant but troubled Dr. John Thackery (Clive Owen) and his colleagues at the Knickerbocker Hospital in New York City. Amid the chaos and innovation of the surgical ward, the series delves into the groundbreaking medical procedures, ethical dilemmas, and personal struggles faced by the doctors and staff. Driven by ambition and addiction, Thackery pushes the boundaries of medicine while grappling with his own demons, all against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society.
20. Gossip Girl (2007-2012)
“Gossip Girl” takes us into the glamorous and scandalous lives of the privileged teenagers on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The series revolves around an anonymous blogger, known as Gossip Girl, who exposes the secrets and intrigues of the elite social circles. We follow the lives of Serena van der Woodsen (Blake Lively), Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester), and their friends as they navigate love, friendship, betrayal, and power struggles. With a mix of romance, drama, and juicy gossip, “Gossip Girl” offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of the city’s young elite.
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