Rhodes is a beautiful Greek island in the Aegean Sea, famous for its medieval Old Town, ancient monuments, sandy beaches and sunny weather. But did you know that Rhodes has also been a popular destination for filmmakers and TV producers? In this blog post, we will explore some of the movies and TV shows that were filmed or set in Rhodes and where you can see them.
The Guns of Navarone (1961)
One of the most iconic movies filmed in Rhodes is The Guns of Navarone, a classic war adventure based on the novel by Alistair MacLean. The movie stars Gregory Peck, David Niven, Anthony Quinn and Irene Papas as a team of Allied commandos who are sent to destroy two massive German cannons on the fictional island of Navarone, which is actually Rhodes. The movie was nominated for seven Academy Awards and won one for Best Special Effects.
The movie was filmed in various locations around Rhodes, including Lindos, Faliraki, Kalithea and Monolithos. You can still see some of the sets and props used in the movie, such as the replica of the guns at Monolithos Castle and the fake monastery at Kalithea Springs. You can also visit the Acropolis of Lindos, where some of the most spectacular scenes were shot, and admire the views of the bay and the village below.
Escape to Athena (1979)
Another movie that was filmed in Rhodes is Escape to Athena, a comedy action film starring Roger Moore, Telly Savalas, David Niven, Claudia Cardinale and Elliott Gould. The movie is set in 1944 during World War II and follows a group of prisoners of war who escape from a German camp and join forces with a local resistance leader to sabotage the Nazi operations on the island.
The movie was filmed mostly in Rhodes Town, especially in the Old Town, where you can see the medieval walls, gates, towers and streets that create a unique atmosphere. You can also spot some landmarks such as the Palace of the Grand Master, the Street of the Knights, the Mosque of Suleiman and the Clock Tower. Some scenes were also filmed at Mandraki Harbour, where you can see the statues of the deer that symbolize Rhodes.
Movies Filmed in Rhode Island
If you are wondering why we are switching from Rhodes to Rhode Island, it is because they are often confused with each other due to their similar names. Rhode Island is actually a state in the United States, located in New England. It is the smallest state by area but has a rich history and culture. It is also home to many movies and TV shows that were filmed or set there.
Here are some examples of movies filmed in Rhode Island:
- Dumb and Dumber (1994) – This hilarious comedy starring Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels follows two dim-witted friends who embark on a cross-country road trip to return a briefcase full of money to its owner. Some scenes were filmed in Providence, Newport and Cranston.
- Reversal of Fortune (1990) – This drama based on a true story stars Jeremy Irons and Glenn Close as Claus and Sunny von Bulow, a wealthy couple involved in a scandalous trial after Sunny falls into a coma due to an insulin overdose. Claus is accused of attempted murder but hires a famous lawyer to defend him. The movie was filmed mostly in Newport, where you can see some of the mansions and estates that belong to the high society.
- Dan in Real Life (2007) – This romantic comedy stars Steve Carell as Dan Burns, a widowed father and advice columnist who falls in love with his brother’s girlfriend during a family reunion. The movie was filmed mainly in Jamestown and Narragansett, where you can see some of the charming cottages and beaches that create a cozy setting.
TV Shows Filmed or Set in Rhode Island
Rhode Island has also been featured in many TV shows, either as a filming location or as a fictional setting. Here are some examples of TV shows filmed or set in Rhode Island:
| Title | Genre | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The Guilded Age | Drama | An upcoming HBO series created by Julian Fellowes (the creator of Downton Abbey) that follows the lives of the wealthy elite and their servants in 1880s New York. Some scenes are filmed in the Newport Mansions, such as The Breakers, The Elms and Rosecliff. |
| Family Guy | Animation | A popular animated sitcom created by Seth MacFarlane that revolves around the Griffin family and their friends in the fictional town of Quahog, Rhode Island. The show often makes references and jokes about Rhode Island culture, politics and celebrities. |
| Providence | Drama | A medical drama that aired from 1999 to 2002 and starred Melina Kanakaredes as Dr. Sydney Hansen, a plastic surgeon who returns to her hometown of Providence, Rhode Island, after her mother’s death. The show featured many scenes filmed in Providence, such as the State House, the Roger Williams Park Zoo and the Waterplace Park. |
Conclusion
As you can see, Rhodes and Rhode Island are both fascinating places that have attracted many filmmakers and TV producers over the years. Whether you are looking for ancient history, medieval charm, modern comedy or drama, you can find something to suit your taste in these two destinations. If you ever have the chance to visit them, don’t forget to check out some of the locations where your favorite movies and TV shows were filmed or set. You might feel like you are part of the story!
