Movies
6 Christmas Movies: Long Island Homes as Holiday Settings
2024-12-11
** "Long Island Homes: From Silent-Picture Days to Christmas Movie Stars"****Keywords:**1. Long Island Homes2. Christmas Movies3. Movie Locations4. Real Estate and Films5. Long Island Film Productions**Outline:**1. Long Island Homes in Film History2. Christmas Movies on Long Island3. Impact on Homeowners and Market4. Specific Movie Locations on Long Island5. Challenges and Benefits of Filming**Introduction**: Long Island has long been a backdrop for film, with homes playing a significant role since the silent-picture days. From bungalows to McMansions, these properties continue to shine on the silver screen. The architectural diversity, easy access to crews and actors, and the ability to stand in for various locations make Long Island a prime choice for filmmakers. Over the years, countless Christmas movies have been filmed here, bringing holiday cheer to both the sets and the local communities.**Tagline**: "Discover how Long Island homes have become the stars of Christmas movies and transformed real estate."**Section 1: Long Island Homes in Film History**Long Island has a rich history of being a screen star. Since the silent-picture days, these homes have captured the imagination of audiences. From bungalows to grand McMansions, they have provided the perfect setting for countless stories. The architectural variety on Long Island allows filmmakers to create any world they desire, whether it's an Amazonian rain forest or a small-town USA. This historical significance has made Long Island a go-to location for filmmakers looking for authenticity and charm. 2: The easy access to New York crews and actors is another advantage of filming on Long Island. With a short distance from the city, filmmakers can quickly assemble their teams and get started on production. This proximity also allows for seamless integration with the local culture and lifestyle, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the films. Long Island's ability to stand in for different locations has made it a versatile choice for filmmakers, who can use it to create a wide range of settings.**Section 2: Christmas Movies on Long Island**Over the last two decades, Long Island homes have been prominently featured in a plethora of Christmas movies. Homeowners have been more than happy to have their houses appear on screen, as it brings them a sense of pride and exposure. The local film industry has thrived during the holiday season, with productions renting homes for anywhere from $500 to $2,500 a day, depending on the location. This has not only provided a boost to the local economy but has also brought joy to the residents. 2: Many of these Christmas movies have become beloved classics, with Long Island serving as the backdrop for holiday magic. From the famous house in "Miracle on 34th Street" to the various locations in other films, Long Island has become synonymous with Christmas. The holiday spirit is palpable on these sets, as filmmakers capture the essence of the season and bring it to life for audiences around the world.**Section 3: Impact on Homeowners and Market**Having your home appear on film can have a direct impact on its market value, although it is only indirect. Homeowners often see an increase in eyeballs on their property, as people become interested in seeing where the movies were filmed. This can lead to increased interest in the home and potentially higher offers. However, the storyline of the movie also plays a role. If it's a Christmas movie, it may have a different impact than a grisly thriller or horror film. 2: Even if the market value isn't affected, homeowners still have bragging rights. They can tell their neighbors and friends about how their house was featured in a movie, adding to their sense of pride and community. Some homeowners even get a staycation at a local hotel while their homes are being used for filming, adding an extra perk to the experience.**Section 4: Specific Movie Locations on Long Island**Each movie on Long Island has its own unique set of locations that add to the charm and authenticity of the story. In "Miracle on 34th Street," the famous house on Derby Road in Port Washington became an iconic symbol of Christmas. Orrie Frutkin and his family moved into the 1943 Cape Cod-style home in 1980 and have since embraced its celebrity status. 2: In "Christmas Eve in Miller's Point," various locations in Holbrook, St. James, Selden, and Smithtown were used. The main location in St. James was arranged through producer Krista Minto, who grew up in the area. Another exterior in the film was on Derby Place in Smithtown, next door to where the director grew up. These specific locations add depth and character to the movies, making them more than just a backdrop. 3: In "Christmas vs. The Walters," the house on Cloverfield Court in Greenlawn was a key location. Through mutual friends, the director was able to secure the house and its neighboring property for the exterior shots. This attention to detail added to the realism of the film and made it a hit with audiences. 4: Edward Burns' holiday film was shot in Valley Stream and Rockville Centre, with the primary locale being around the block from where he grew up. Another holiday house was also seen in Rockville Centre. These locations brought a sense of nostalgia and familiarity to the story, making it more relatable to viewers. 5: In "The Town That Banned Christmas," various locations in Greenlawn, Centerport, Northport, and East Northport were used. The director, John Dowling Jr., was able to cast the film with name stars through his art-world connections. Some scenes were even shot at the home of an investor and executive producer in Greenlawn, adding a personal touch to the production.**Section 5: Challenges and Benefits of Filming**Filming on Long Island is not without its challenges. With 100 people in a house, there can be disruption and mayhem. Homeowners need to be prepared for this and give themselves over to the experience. However, many homeowners enjoy the opportunity to have their homes on screen and the economic boost it brings to the local community. 2: Despite the challenges, the benefits of filming on Long Island outweigh them. The architectural diversity, easy access to crews and actors, and the ability to create any setting make it a dream location for filmmakers. The local film industry has thrived, providing jobs and opportunities for local talent. And for homeowners, it's a chance to be a part of something special and share their homes with the world.