The Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans is a historic landmark that has been a part of the city’s vibrant culture for nearly a century. This iconic hotel has hosted countless celebrities, politicians, and other notable figures, and its luxurious amenities and stunning architecture have made it a popular filming location for many movies and television shows. In this article, we will explore the rich history of the Roosevelt Hotel and highlight some of the most notable movies that have been filmed on its premises.
A Brief History of the Roosevelt Hotel
The Roosevelt Hotel was originally built in 1893 as the Grunewald Hotel, and it quickly became a popular destination for travelers and locals alike. The hotel was named after Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, and it was designed to reflect the grandeur and elegance of the time period. Over the years, the hotel has undergone several renovations and restorations, but it has maintained its original charm and character. Today, the Roosevelt Hotel is a member of the Historic Hotels of America and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Hotel’s Architecture and Amenities
The Roosevelt Hotel is a stunning example of Victorian-era architecture, with a grand lobby, sweeping staircases, and ornate details throughout. The hotel features 504 luxurious guest rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities and comfortable furnishings. The hotel also boasts an impressive array of amenities, including a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The Sazerac Bar, located in the hotel’s lobby, is a popular spot for cocktails and is famous for its signature Sazerac drink.
Filming at the Roosevelt Hotel
The Roosevelt Hotel’s stunning architecture and luxurious amenities have made it a popular filming location for many movies and television shows. The hotel’s grand lobby, sweeping staircases, and ornate details provide a unique and picturesque backdrop for filming, and its proximity to other New Orleans landmarks makes it an ideal location for productions. Many notable movies have been filmed at the Roosevelt Hotel, including Interview with the Vampire, Double Jeopardy, and Elvis and Nixon.
Movies Filmed at the Roosevelt Hotel
Some of the most notable movies filmed at the Roosevelt Hotel include:
- Interview with the Vampire: This 1994 film, based on the novel by Anne Rice, stars Tom Cruise, Brad Pitt, and Kirsten Dunst. The movie follows the story of a vampire named Louis, who tells his story to a reporter. The Roosevelt Hotel was used as a filming location for several scenes, including a dramatic confrontation between Louis and the vampire Lestat.
- Double Jeopardy: This 1999 thriller, starring Tommy Lee Jones and Ashley Judd, follows a woman who is framed for her husband’s murder and sets out to clear her name. The Roosevelt Hotel was used as a filming location for several scenes, including a dramatic chase through the hotel’s lobby.
Other Notable Films and Television Shows
In addition to these notable movies, the Roosevelt Hotel has also been used as a filming location for several other films and television shows. Elvis and Nixon, a 2016 biographical comedy-drama, stars Kevin Spacey as President Richard Nixon and Michael Shannon as Elvis Presley. The movie follows the story of a meeting between the two men at the White House, and the Roosevelt Hotel was used as a filming location for several scenes. Other notable films and television shows that have been filmed at the Roosevelt Hotel include Treme, a HBO drama series that explores the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and Deja Vu, a 2006 science fiction thriller starring Denzel Washington.
The Hotel’s Impact on the Film Industry
The Roosevelt Hotel’s impact on the film industry cannot be overstated. Its stunning architecture, luxurious amenities, and rich history have made it a popular filming location for many productions. The hotel’s proximity to other New Orleans landmarks, including the French Quarter and Bourbon Street, makes it an ideal location for films and television shows set in the city. The hotel’s experienced staff and crew have also played a significant role in supporting film productions, providing everything from catering and accommodations to logistical support and equipment rental.
Conclusion
The Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans is a legendary filming location that has been used in many iconic movies and television shows. Its stunning architecture, luxurious amenities, and rich history have made it a popular destination for film productions, and its proximity to other New Orleans landmarks makes it an ideal location for films and television shows set in the city. Whether you are a film buff, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and luxurious place to stay, the Roosevelt Hotel is a must-visit destination. With its grand lobby, sweeping staircases, and ornate details, the hotel provides a unique and picturesque backdrop for filming, and its experienced staff and crew are dedicated to supporting film productions and providing an unforgettable experience for guests.
What is the history of the Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans?
The Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans has a rich history dating back to 1893 when it was first opened as the Grunewald Hotel. Over the years, the hotel has undergone several renovations and transformations, with the most notable one being in 1923 when it was renamed the Roosevelt Hotel in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt. The hotel’s stunning architecture, elegant decor, and exceptional service have made it a popular destination for celebrities, politicians, and tourists alike. Its prime location in the heart of New Orleans, within walking distance to the famous French Quarter, has also contributed to its enduring appeal.
The Roosevelt Hotel’s history is also marked by its association with the famous Blue Room, a luxurious nightclub that hosted renowned entertainers such as Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, and Ella Fitzgerald. The hotel’s grand ballrooms, lavish suites, and opulent furnishings have made it a favorite among Hollywood filmmakers, who have used its stunning settings as the backdrop for numerous iconic movies. From the grand staircases to the ornate chandeliers, every aspect of the hotel exudes old-world charm and sophistication, making it the perfect setting for period dramas, romantic comedies, and other films that require a touch of elegance and glamour.
Which iconic movies have been filmed at the Roosevelt Hotel?
The Roosevelt Hotel has been a popular filming location for numerous iconic movies, including “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” “Interview with the Vampire,” and “Deja Vu.” The hotel’s grand lobby, with its soaring ceilings, marble columns, and sparkling chandeliers, has been featured in several films, including “The Pelican Brief” and “Runaway Jury.” The hotel’s luxurious suites, with their plush furnishings and stunning views of the city, have also been used as the backdrop for various scenes in films such as “Double Jeopardy” and “The Client.”
The Roosevelt Hotel’s Blue Room, with its rich history and ornate decor, has been a particular favorite among filmmakers. The nightclub has been featured in several films, including “Casino” and “Ray,” and has been used as the setting for various musical performances and dance scenes. The hotel’s exterior, with its imposing facade and picturesque courtyard, has also been used as a filming location, providing a stunning backdrop for scenes in films such as “A Streetcar Named Desire” and “The Magnificent Seven.” The Roosevelt Hotel’s association with Hollywood is a testament to its enduring appeal and its reputation as one of the most iconic hotels in the world.
What makes the Roosevelt Hotel a popular filming location?
The Roosevelt Hotel’s stunning architecture, elegant decor, and rich history make it a popular filming location for Hollywood filmmakers. The hotel’s grand lobby, with its soaring ceilings, marble columns, and sparkling chandeliers, provides a breathtaking backdrop for scenes that require a touch of elegance and sophistication. The hotel’s luxurious suites, with their plush furnishings and stunning views of the city, offer a unique and intimate setting for scenes that require a sense of luxury and refinement. The hotel’s Blue Room, with its rich history and ornate decor, provides a unique and nostalgic setting for scenes that require a touch of old-world charm.
The Roosevelt Hotel’s popularity as a filming location can also be attributed to its versatility and flexibility. The hotel’s various spaces, including its grand ballrooms, lavish suites, and picturesque courtyard, can be easily transformed to fit the needs of different films and productions. The hotel’s experienced staff and management are also knowledgeable about the film industry and are able to provide tailored support and services to filmmakers, including location scouting, catering, and accommodation. The hotel’s proximity to the famous French Quarter and other iconic New Orleans landmarks also makes it an ideal location for films that require a touch of authenticity and local flavor.
What is the Blue Room, and what is its significance in the Roosevelt Hotel’s history?
The Blue Room is a luxurious nightclub located within the Roosevelt Hotel, and it has played a significant role in the hotel’s history as a hub for live music and entertainment. The Blue Room was first opened in the 1930s and quickly became a popular destination for jazz and blues musicians, including Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald. The nightclub’s intimate setting, with its small stage and luxurious seating, provided the perfect setting for live music performances, and it soon became a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The Blue Room’s significance in the Roosevelt Hotel’s history extends beyond its role as a nightclub. The room has been used as a filming location for numerous movies and television shows, including “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” and “Treme.” The room’s ornate decor, with its blue walls, sparkling chandeliers, and plush furnishings, provides a unique and nostalgic setting for scenes that require a touch of old-world charm. The Blue Room has also been used as a venue for various events and functions, including weddings, galas, and award shows, and it continues to be a popular destination for those looking to experience the best of New Orleans’ live music and entertainment.
How has the Roosevelt Hotel been restored and preserved over the years?
The Roosevelt Hotel has undergone several restorations and renovations over the years to preserve its historic charm and elegance. In 2009, the hotel underwent a major $145 million renovation, which included the restoration of its grand lobby, luxurious suites, and famous Blue Room. The renovation aimed to preserve the hotel’s original architecture and decor while also incorporating modern amenities and technologies. The hotel’s owners and management have also taken steps to preserve the hotel’s historic artifacts and memorabilia, including its original furnishings, artwork, and photographs.
The Roosevelt Hotel’s restoration and preservation efforts have been recognized and awarded by various organizations, including the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Historic Hotels of America. The hotel’s commitment to preserving its history and heritage has also been reflected in its various amenities and services, including its guided tours, historical exhibits, and vintage-inspired decor. The hotel’s experienced staff and management are also knowledgeable about the hotel’s history and are able to provide guests with a unique and informative experience, including insight into the hotel’s famous past, its iconic architecture, and its association with Hollywood and the film industry.
Can I tour the Roosevelt Hotel and its famous Blue Room?
Yes, the Roosevelt Hotel offers guided tours of its historic spaces, including the famous Blue Room. The hotel’s guided tours provide a unique and informative look into the hotel’s history, architecture, and association with Hollywood and the film industry. The tours, which are led by experienced and knowledgeable guides, include access to the hotel’s grand lobby, luxurious suites, and other historic spaces, including the Blue Room. Visitors can also explore the hotel’s various exhibits and displays, which feature historic artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia.
The Roosevelt Hotel’s guided tours are available daily and can be booked in advance through the hotel’s website or by contacting the hotel’s concierge. Visitors can also take a self-guided tour of the hotel’s public spaces, including the lobby, bar, and courtyard. The hotel’s staff and management are also happy to provide visitors with information and insight into the hotel’s history and heritage, including its association with famous guests, its role in the film industry, and its significance as a cultural and historical landmark. Visitors can also enjoy a drink or meal at the hotel’s bar or restaurant, which offers a range of cocktails, wines, and Creole cuisine.
How can I book a stay at the Roosevelt Hotel and experience its legendary hospitality?
To book a stay at the Roosevelt Hotel, visitors can contact the hotel’s reservations department directly or book online through the hotel’s website or a hotel booking website. The hotel offers a range of luxurious rooms and suites, including deluxe rooms, junior suites, and presidential suites, each with its own unique character and charm. The hotel’s experienced staff and management are also happy to provide visitors with personalized service and recommendations, including advice on the best restaurants, bars, and attractions in New Orleans.
The Roosevelt Hotel’s legendary hospitality is reflected in its commitment to providing guests with a unique and unforgettable experience. From the moment of arrival, guests are treated to exceptional service, including personalized check-in, complimentary cocktails, and tailored recommendations for exploring the city. The hotel’s various amenities and services, including its fitness center, spa, and business center, are also designed to provide guests with a comfortable and convenient stay. Whether visitors are looking to experience the best of New Orleans’ culture, history, and entertainment or simply want to relax and unwind in style, the Roosevelt Hotel is the perfect destination for a truly legendary stay.