Where was Annie filmed?
1982
City Locations
Berkshires (USA), New York City (USA), New Jersey (USA), Burbank (USA), Universal City (USA)
Location Types
University, Party Hall, Film Studio, House
Location Styles
The '30s, Luxury, Federal Building, Mid-Century Modern, Americana
About Annie
"Annie" is a heartwarming film blending comedy, drama, and musical elements. The family-friendly movie borrows from the popular Broadway musical of the same name, which drew inspiration from the comic strip "Little Orphan Annie."
The story follows Annie, a spirited and optimistic 11-year-old orphan living in Harlem, New York City. Despite her challenging circumstances, Annie believes that her parents, who left her as a baby with a half-locket and a note promising to return, are still out there. Her life turns when a billionaire businessman and mayoral candidate, William "Will" Stacks, saves her from being hit by a car.
Stacks invites Annie to live with him temporarily to boost his public image. The initially reluctant Stacks soon warms up to Annie's infectious enthusiasm and zest for life. Annie and her never-say-die spirit transforms Stacks' life and brings hope into the lives of everyone she meets. With memorable tunes like "Tomorrow" and "It's a Hard Knock Life," the film offers an uplifting message about resilience, love, and the true meaning of family.
Now, for a fun fact: The 2014 version of "Annie," starring Quvenzhané Wallis as Annie and Jamie Foxx as Will Stacks, is the third film adaptation of the beloved musical. The first "Annie" movie premiered in 1982, and a made-for-television version came out in 1999. The 2014 iteration added a modern twist to the classic story, including an updated setting and more contemporary music.
"Annie" received mixed reviews upon its release. With a 49% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 5.4 average score out of 10, critics found the choice of John Huston as director peculiar, resulting in a slow and overly theatrical adaptation. However, the child actors and the catchy songs carried the day.
Annie Locations
The production of "Annie" spanned multiple impressive locations, adding a layer of authenticity and visual grandeur to the storytelling. New York City and New Jersey, two regions known for their bustling urban landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural scenes, provided the backdrop for most scenes.
Iconic New York City locations such as Radio City Music Hall - where the film also premiered - and the streets around Broadway and 176th were featured prominently in the movie. The backdrop of these regions, with their towering skyscrapers, busy streets, and distinct architectural styles, lent a realistic and immersive feel. The apartment of Will Stacks, one of the main characters, was shot at 4 World Trade Center, Manhattan, adding a touch of modern elegance to the film's settings.
In contrast, the orphanage scenes were filmed in Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California, showcasing the versatility of studio sets in recreating diverse environments. Notably, the Great Hall at Monmouth University in New Jersey served as Daddy Warbuck's Mansion, bringing a sense of grandeur and luxury to the film.
A trip to these filming locations would undoubtedly be worthwhile for fans of "Annie." Visitors could explore the vibrant city life of New York, the historic charm of New Jersey, and the magic of Hollywood studios in California, all while retracing the steps of their favorite characters.
The orphanage scene in Annie
Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., 4000 Warner Blvd, Burbank, CA 91522, United States
During the Great Depression in 1933, Annie (Aileen Quinn), a spirited young orphan, finds herself in bustling New York City, residing in the Hudson Street Orphanage. Governed by Agatha Hannigan (Carol Burnett), a heartless woman who loves alcohol, the orphanage compels children to perform daily cleaning tasks. Despite her challenging circumstances, Annie clings to hope, holding onto a half of a locket - a precious keepsake from her parents who left her on the orphanage's doorstep as an infant. With unwavering faith, she firmly believes they will return for her one day.
Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., headquartered in Burbank, California, is an influential global player in the entertainment industry. The company has a portfolio including feature films, TV shows, and video game production. Renowned for classics and contemporary masterpieces, Warner Bros. consistently delivers extraordinary storytelling across all current and emerging media platforms.
Fly to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), take I-405 N, merge onto US-101 S, exit on Barham Blvd toward Burbank, and follow signs to 4000 Warner Blvd. Alternatively, use public transit—Metro Red Line to North Hollywood, then bus 155.
Annie visits Mr. Warbucks scene in Annie
The Great Hall, 400 Cedar Ave, West Long Branch, NJ 07764
Grace Farrell (Ann Reinking), the personal secretary to the affluent Oliver Warbucks (Albert Finney), visits the orphanage with a proposal. To enhance Warbucks' public persona, they seek to host an orphan for a week at his residence. As fate would have it, Annie (Aileen Quinn) is the lucky orphan selected for this unique experience. Accompanied by her dog, Sandy, she journeys to the opulent Warbucks' mansion, where she is introduced to the household staff along with his two bodyguards, Punjab (Geoffrey Holder) and the Asp (Roger Minami).
The Great Hall, located on the campus of Monmouth University in West Long Branch, New Jersey, is a stunning neoclassical French tribute to architecture. Designed by Julian Abele and built in 1929, this imposing building, also known as Woodrow Wilson Hall or Shadow Lawn, is one of the most impressive structures in the state.
Fly into Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), take the Garden State Parkway South to Exit 105, follow NJ-36 E, and turn right onto Cedar Avenue. Public transit options include NJ Transit trains to Long Branch, then a short taxi or bus ride to the university.
Annie and Daddy Warbucks watching the film scene in Annie
Radio City Music Hall, 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020, United States
Warbucks (Albert Finney) is indifferent towards Annie (Aileen Quinn) due to her gender. However, he is soon captivated by her charm and decides to extend her stay. He and Grace (Ann Reinking) take Annie to the iconic Radio City Music Hall for a movie screening of "Camille." During this outing, Warbucks starts to form a fond attachment to Annie.
Radio City Music Hall, located at 1260 Avenue of the Americas in New York City, is a historic and iconic entertainment venue. Known for its unmatched elegance, it's nestled within Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan. As the largest indoor theater in the world, its marquee stretches a city block long, offering a grand stage for countless memorable performances.
Fly into John F. Kennedy International (JFK) or LaGuardia (LGA) Airports. Take the 6, E, M subway or the M7 or M50 bus. Of course, Alternatively, hop on a taxi. And for those who prefer to drive, parking garages are conveniently available nearby, ensuring a hassle-free visit to this prestigious venue.
Conclusion
"Annie," a timeless tale of hope and resilience, leverages a variety of locations to bring its story to life. The film takes us from the drab confines of the Municipal Girls Orphanage to the luxury of Daddy Warbucks' mansion, accentuating Annie's transformative journey.
The bustling streets of New York, recreated at Brownstone Street, Backlot, and Universal Studios, offer a vibrant backdrop that encapsulates the city's energy and charm. These settings, combined with other iconic locations like Radio City Music Hall, help to create an authentic 1930s atmosphere that immerses viewers in the narrative.
The film brilliantly uses these varied locations to highlight the stark contrast between Annie's humble beginnings and her new life of luxury. In conclusion, "Annie" is a heartwarming story of an orphan's triumph over adversity and a cinematic tour de force that showcases some of the most iconic locations in movie history.