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Mahogany movie cover Movie Locations Guide

Where was Mahogany filmed?

1975

City Locations

Chicago (USA), Rome (Italy)

Location Types

Unique, Unusual, Intimate, Storefront, Schools/Colleges

Location Styles

House, Foreign, Mid-Century Modern, Classic Car, Victorian, Luxury

About Mahogany

"Mahogany" is a compelling film that tells the story of dreams, love, and the cost of success. Released in 1975, the movie was directed by Berry Gordy and features Diana Ross as Tracy Chambers, also known as Mahogany. She's a young woman from Chicago with a burning ambition to make it big in the world of fashion design.

The narrative unfolds as Tracy, initially working as a department store secretary, meets Sean McAvoy, a photographer played by Anthony Perkins. Impressed by her unique sense of style, Sean invites her to model for him, launching her into the glamorous world of high fashion in Rome. As Mahogany, she rises to become a celebrated fashion model and designer. However, with success comes a series of challenges.

Caught between her skyrocketing career and her relationships, particularly with her childhood love Brian, portrayed by Billy Dee Williams, Mahogany's life turns into a roller coaster ride of fame, romance, and tough choices. The film eloquently depicts her journey as she grapples with the intricacies of success and love, ultimately leading her to choose between her heart and her career.

Diana Ross not only appeared in the film but also designed many of the lavish clothing her character wore. This highlighted her real-life passion for fashion and added a realistic touch to Mahogany's character, making the film's fashion moments even more captivating.

In short, "Mahogany" is a timeless tale of ambition, love, and the sacrifices that come with fame. Its captivating plot, along with Diana Ross's outstanding performance and the enthralling world of fashion it digs into, make it a remarkable cinematic experience.

Mahogany Locations

Berry Gordy directed "Mahogany," which is a visual trip between two lively cities: Chicago and Rome. Setting the tone and mood of the movie was made easier by these places, which showed how the main character went from being poor to becoming famous in the fashion world.

Most scenes were filmed in Chicago and Rome, which have very different cultural and architectural settings. In Chicago, famous sites like the Marshall Field & Co. Department Store give Tracy Chambers' life before she became famous a more realistic feel. The busy streets and urban setting of the city show how bold and hard she works.

Rome, on the other hand, with its storied past and beautiful architecture, is the epitome of the fashion world's glitz and glamor. The city's classic beauty goes well with the stylish look of the movie, making it a good place for Mahogany's rise to fame.

Movie fans would enjoy a trip to the places where the movie was filmed. One interesting way to relive the story of the movie could be to walk through the beautiful streets of Rome or Chicago's historic shopping area. In addition to their link to "Mahogany," both cities are popular tourist spots with a lot to offer, from amazing landmarks to delicious food.

Tracy's working scene in Mahogany

Marshall Field and Company Building, 111 N State St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

Tracy Chambers (Diana Ross), an ambitious fashion designer, has worked hard to advance to the position of assistant chief buyer at a high-end department store in Chicago. Her boss, Miss Evans (Nina Foch), is concerned that Tracy's evening lessons may disturb her professional duties at the store.

On State Street in Chicago, the Marshall Field and Company Building, which is a National Historic Landmark, stands out because of how beautiful it is. The building, which is now home to Macy's, shows how long the city has a history of shopping. It was built from 1893 to 1915 and takes up a full city block. This famous building is even more beautiful because of its Tiffany Dome Ceiling. The building's history lives on as it recently became home to a major logistics business.

It's simple to get to Marshall Field and Company Building. Take the CTA to the Washington Blue Line stop, which is only a short walk away. If you're driving, you can get there by getting off I-90/I-94 at Washington Blvd. and going east. Parking meters on the street and sheds are close by. Bicyclists can also use the bike trails and racks that are there. It's easy to get to this famous building from anywhere in the city.

Tracy passing by the Colosseum scene in Mahogany

Colosseum, Piazza del Colosseo, 1, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

Tracy arrives in Rome by taxi. The taxi travels through the city, providing a grand tour of Rome's remarkable sights. The pinnacle of this sequence is when the taxi passes by the Colosseum, one of the most iconic landmarks of Italy. This moment encapsulates the vibrant energy of Rome and the awe-inspiring history that the city carries within its ancient structures.

The Colosseum is an elliptical amphitheater in the middle of Rome that shows how grand Roman buildings could be. It was built between 70 and 72 AD by the Flavian emperors and is the largest ancient amphitheater. It is also an icon in the Eternal City. The Colosseum, which is also called the Flavian Amphitheater, is an important historical place that gets a lot of visitors every day. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Taking public transportation is an easy way to get to the Colosseum. Right next to the landmark is the Colosseo metro stop on Line B. There are also bus and tram stops nearby. If you're driving, you can park on Via dei Fori Imperiali. People who want to take a more scenic way can walk or ride a bike right up to this famous spot. The Colosseum is an easy-to-reach wonder in the middle of Rome, no matter how you get there.

Tracy passing by the Trevi Fountain scene in Mahogany

Trevi Fountain, Piazza di Trevi, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

As Tracy travels through the city, the audience is treated to a montage of Rome's prominent landmarks. The arrival of the protagonist at the Trevi Fountain is the scene's highlight. Though the fountain is being renovated, the beauty of its design and the spirit of the surrounding neighborhood are tangible.

The Trevi Fountain, or "Fontana di Trevi," is a magnificent 18th-century Baroque fountain located in the Trevi district of Rome, Italy. Designed by Nicola Salvi, it's the largest and most beautiful fountain in Rome, standing at an impressive 85 feet tall and 160 feet wide. The fountain is adorned with intricate sculptures, including the iconic depiction of the Greek sea god Oceanus, commonly misconceived as Neptune. It symbolizes the enduring romantic allure of Rome, striking tourists from around the world with its grandeur.

To visit the Trevi Fountain, utilize Rome's efficient public transport; the closest metro stop is Barberini (Line A), a short walk from the fountain. Buses to Via del Tritone or Via del Corso also offer easy access. For those driving, nearby parking is in Via Ludovisi. Walking through Rome’s picturesque streets offers a delightful approach. Regardless of your mode of transit, the Trevi Fountain is an easily accessible gem in Rome's heart.

Tracy passing by the Pantheon scene in Mahogany

Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Rome, Metropolitan City of Rome Capital, Italy

The city unfolds in front of Tracy's eyes, showcasing its architectural splendors and bustling life. One such sight is the Pantheon, an ancient Roman structure famed for its massive dome and historical significance. The taxi also goes through a crowded plaza, filled with both locals and visitors. Tracy is fascinated by the city's rich history and cultural liveliness.

The Piazza della Rotonda is a popular city square in Rome, Italy. The Pantheon, an old Roman temple that was turned into a church, is its most famous feature. The square's name comes from the Pantheon's more casual name, "Santa Maria Rotonda." There are lots of cafes and restaurants in the Piazza, and there is a small Baroque pond in the middle of it. Because of its lively atmosphere and important historical value, it is a must-see place in Rome.

Accessing Piazza della Rotonda is easy, and there are many ways to do it. Barberini, which is on Line A, is the closest metro stop. An easy walk leads from there. Several bus lines also go through the area and drop off people nearby. Public parking lots are nearby if you're driving, but because Rome's streets are so busy, it's better to walk or take the metro. Because it is in the middle of the city, the Piazza can be reached from many places.

Tracy's photoshoot scene in Mahogany

Spanish Steps, Piazza di Spagna, 00187 Roma RM, Italy

Tracy takes part in a stunning photo shoot set against the backdrop of Rome's most iconic landmark, the Spanish Steps. She poses on the steps wearing magnificent couture, symbolizing the beauty and appeal of the fashion world. The ancient setting, combined with her arresting appearance, results in a visually spectacular and unforgettable scene in the film.

The Spanish Steps, located in Rome, Italy, are a great stairway with 135 steps connecting the Piazza di Spagna below to the Piazza Trinità dei Monti above. They were built in the Rococo style between 1723 and 1725 and give a lively and refined atmosphere while surrounded by historic 18th-century buildings. These steps have become a popular tourist destination in Rome, known for their architectural magnificence and dynamic atmosphere.

Getting to the Spanish Steps in Rome is easy because there are many ways to get there. The closest metro stop is Spagna on Line A of the Rome Metro. It is right next to the steps. Many bus lines go through the area, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the city. There are many famous places nearby, like the Trevi Fountain, that you can reach on foot from the steps.

Conclusion

"Mahogany" is a remarkable cinematic adventure that transports viewers from the vibrant streets of Chicago to the enthralling scenery of Rome. The film expertly uses these disparate settings to show the protagonist's journey from a modest department store assistant to a recognized fashion model and designer.

Chicago's busy cityscape reflects Tracy Chambers' ambition and roots, while Rome's timeless beauty captures the splendor and appeal of the high-fashion world she enters. These places not only improve the visual attractiveness of the film but also give complexity to the story, making Tracy's journey even more interesting.

A visit to these filming locations would definitely be a pleasure for "Mahogany" fans, providing a unique opportunity to experience the story in real life. The film, like its locations, is a fusion of dreams, love, and the intricate dance of ambition and sacrifice, all wrapped up in a captivating fashion package.