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Boston: Movies and TV Shows Part of the Places of a Lifetime series from Traveler magazine

Movies and programs that capture the atmosphere of the city.

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Good Will Hunting (1997)
Matt Damon and Ben Affleck’s rocket to fame; follows a Southie genius, a greedy MIT math professor, and a kindly psychologist.

The Departed (2006)
The gang’s all here: Matt Damon, the Wahlberg brothers, Jack Nicholson, Martin Sheen, and Leonardo DiCaprio explore crime loyalties in South Boston.

American Wake (2004)
A beautifully shot indie film weaving two stories of love and redemption that is as touching as it is genuine; standout performances from Billy Smith and Elaine Qualter.

Fever Pitch (2005)
A poor rendition of a fine novel, but a passable romantic comedy that taps into Boston’s World Series euphoria.

The Thomas Crown Affair (1968)
The original with Steve McQueen was set in Boston; about a bored millionaire who steals art for the kicks

 

Television Series

Cheers (1982-1993)
Boston’s best known screen presence; made a landmark out of a mediocre bar.

Ally McBeal (1997-2002)
Calista Flockhart and her quirky legal colleagues try to find love and win cases in Boston.

Boston Legal (2004-present)
James Spader and William Shatner practice law in the Back Bay.

ZOOM (1972-1978, 1999-2005)
Pioneering children’s show produced by public television’s WGBH in Boston and filmed at locations throughout Boston and New England.

Boston Multimedia

Know Before You Go: Boston

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