About Irvine
Irvine didn’t just evolve. It was planned. The city of Irvine is a master-planned community that was incorporated in 1971, which means there was a well-thought-out process to how the city is laid out and where things are.
The advantages of being a master-planned community have helped Irvine grow to a population of over 307,000 people and numerous businesses, including the technology sector. Over seven universities and colleges call Irvine home or have a campus here. It’s also a popular filming location for television and movies, including the series Seventh Heaven, and movies Iron Man and Ocean’s 11 among others.
Filming Options in Irvine
Filming options in Irvine are popular because it’s located in southern California, just south of Anaheim and not far from Los Angeles. The Cleveland National Forest and shoreline are both nearby, adding to the scenic beauty of the area as well. A variety of companies in the city serve the needs of the film industry, educational institutions, and businesses in the area.
- Catering
Catering companies are easy to find in Irvine because of the many businesses and higher education institutions in the area. They all have similar options for filming projects and you can find whatever you need here.
- Furniture Rentals
One thing that cities with a lot of university students do exceptionally well is furniture rentals. There are many companies in Irvine that can secure furniture or other equipment rentals for your filming project. The professionals in these businesses will also ensure that everything you rent is in pristine condition for your project.
- Transportation
“Ah, transportation logistics, my favorite thing,” said no one ever. That’s not quite true though, because the transportation companies in Irvine enjoy getting you where you need to be and they do that with a smile on their face.
Filming Companies in Irvine
Filming companies in Irvine have worked with everything from filming projects for university projects to blockbuster hits for Hollywood companies. They can ensure smooth sailing for your filming project.
- Kiro’s Catering
Kiro’s Catering brings its love of food and timeless traditions to its catering business. Their innovative menus and meal options will bring a level of sophistication and culinary delight to your filming project that will delight everyone and strengthen your team’s relationships.
- Mathis Brothers
Mathis Brothers help people find their inspiration. They offer design services and a variety of furniture options that can fill and augment any space. Their trained professionals can help with visualizers, planning, and design logistics.
- Irvine Executive Transportation
Irvine Executive Transportation offers premium and luxury town car services throughout the Los Angeles area. Their services are cost-effective and professional, getting you where you need to be in comfort and on time.
Pros and Cons of Filming Options in Irvine
There are pros and cons of filming options in Irvine – from the city’s cleanliness and safety record to the expense that accompanies these advantages. Review the list and then make your final decision.
Advantages
- Parks and weather
Irvine has a variety of parks and green spaces as well as good weather to help you enjoy them. It’s a beautiful city with sunny days, warm temperatures, and many areas to enjoy both of those in.
- America’s safest city
The FBI has ranked Irvine as America’s Safest City since 2005. That’s a pretty incredible statistic. You may not think about safety too much when you’re picking a city to film in, but it can be an important feature and one that Irvine has covered.
- Clean
We often think of cities as dirty, whether that’s from air pollution, littering, or a variety of other reasons. One striking thing about Irvine is how clean it is. The streets, the air, the parks, and green spaces, it’s all kept incredibly clean. Kudos go to the City of Irvine for their work, but also to the residents and visitors who help maintain this standard.
Disadvantages
- Expensive
All those advantages come at a cost, and Irvine is an expensive city to visit or live in. The higher cost may be worth it to you because of its inherent advantages but plan your budget accordingly.
- Transportation limitations
There aren’t a lot of public transportation options in Irvine, and this may not matter for your filming project. Luckily, there are plenty of private transportation options.
- Nightlife
There are a variety of cultural opportunities during the day, but not so many at night. The nightlife in Irvine leaves a little to be desired. If you have a filming schedule filled with early morning shoots – this is a good thing – there won’t be much to tempt your cast and crew away from a good night’s sleep.
Famous Locations in Irvine
- Great Park Balloon Ride
The balloon ride in Great Park takes you 400 feet up into the air for a unique view of the city. It’s long been on the list of many famous locations in Irvine as you can see up to 40 miles on a clear day. It’s a definite once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed while you’re in the city. It’s a helium balloon (unlike the hot air versions) and can hold up to 30 guests at once.
- Great Park
Since you’re already in Great Park for a balloon ride, you should enjoy the rest of the park as well. It’s owned and managed by the City of Irvine and is a favorite location. There’s a carousel, in addition to the balloon ride. It also hosts events, sports, arts, green spaces, and trails. The park is over 1,300 acres and there is something for everyone here.
- Spectrum Center Giant Wheel
The Spectrum Center is home to shopping and restaurants. It also has a giant wheel that offers views of Orange County. At night, over 52,000 LED lights make a dazzling color show with 16 million different combinations, turning the giant wheel into a different form of entertainment. The Spectrum Center has a carousel as well.
