Hollywood Set Location Spotlight: What The Bourne Supremacy, Lucy, True Lies and Other Movies Have in Common

December 30, 2022

Hollywood Set Location Spotlight: What The Bourne Supremacy, Lucy, True Lies and Other Movies Have in Common

Have you ever thought these movies have something in common? Well now you know they do! Haha. Who would have thought I'll be compiling a list of movies that were set and shot in some of The Westin Hotels and Resorts worldwide?

I was really in too deep you know. Almost four years ago, I wrote this article. Back then all I could think about was Westin this and that. Look, I even wrote about it in relation to Hollywood movies. Whoa. 😆

Well, because I'm still working in real estate and previously mainly handling The Residences at The Westin Manila Sonata Place too, here's a short list of Westin Hotels and Resorts used as Hollywood film setting. (The movies I enjoy are those in the genre of fantasy, sci-fi with some action and adventure so of course most of what's here will be movies I've seen and/or like.)

First I'd like to tell you more about the Westin Hotels and Resorts in case you're not familiar with it yet.

The Westin Hotels & Resorts

Here's what a Moneyinc.com article says about this well-known luxury and international five star hotel brand.

"Westin is a brand that is known for signature amenities which help travelers to relax in luxury, revitalize with healthful foods and receive the best service available. The atmosphere in Westin hotels and resorts is laid-back for guests, but high energy behind the scenes for service. The rooms are completed with excellent technology, uncluttered décor, and very comfortable beds, baths and furnishings. Many are pet friendly, providing special beds, dishes and foods for pets. The resorts are also family friendly, with supervised kids’ activities and often lists of things families can do together."

(Source)

What is the Importance of Film Setting?

My background is in arts so in order to understand why I made this list, here's a short info on this integral part of fiction writing and filmmaking. To storytellers, scriptwriters, authors, filmmakers and (art or) film students, the setting is important to create a relatable story and visual narrative. It establishes the tone of the scene.

Sometimes we don't notice the setting if we are not familiar with it. Those who do know about the locations will understand the film or story more when seeing familiar places the characters are in. Yes, it may also be any other upscale hotel or resort for that matter as using such venues makes you see the storytellers' point. In this case, people who go into a Westin hotel or resort means they can afford to be in a 5 star luxury hotel and that they prefer the comforts offered and the excellent services they can avail. :)

Now imagine if you, your family or colleagues live in a Westin Residence in a business district of the Philippines, that'd be almost like living in an exclusive Westin hotel home in the city everyday. Plus you'd have easier access to almost everything you need inside and outside your Westin Manila residence. Very advantageous for various business people who prefer convenience, total wellbeing and a luxurious lifestyle in a green and bustling city. As long as units are still available, it'd be my pleasure to assist anyone in acquiring a part of this exclusive and currently pre-selling property.

Now, are you ready to know which well-known Hollywood movies have used Westin Hotels and Resorts as scene setting? Let's start!

1 . The Bourne Supremacy: The Westin Grand in Berlin

In this particular Jason Bourne movie, we see he found the US agent Pamela Landy staying at The Westin Grand. He follows her outside the hotel too.

2 . Lucy: The Westin Paris Vendome

This one I already mentioned in my Lucy movie review.

We see Professor Norman (Morgan Freeman) enter and stay at this particular hotel. This is where Lucy

(Scarlett Johannson) then calls him and asks for help.

3 . Before Midnight: The Westin Costa Navarino in Greece

Okay, I know this is a romantic film but it is still worth mentioning at least since the room the couple stayed in is at a Westin resort. They even renamed the room the movie was shot in to the Before Midnight suite. Lol. Aside from that, some of the resort's wonderful coastal parts is the backdrop to some scenes.

I didn't watch the movie (and probably will never watch the trilogy too) but I kinda skimmed through it and the saw the ocean view is just breathtaking. To me, it gives the film a very relaxing and touristy vibe.

4 . In the Line of Fire, True Lies and many more: The Westin Bonaventure Hotel in Los Angeles, USA

Actually this particular hotel is known for its futuristic exterior but the interiors have also been used as movie setting for many Hollywood films.

(Photo by Geographer)

I believe it is the most featured Westin Hotel in American films based on the number of times it has appeared on the silver screen. If you check IMDb, there are 42 movies and TV shows listed as having used the hotel as filming location.

I haven't seen In The Line of Fire but I've watched True Lies years ago so it was fun to find out about this. Hehe. Here's a video where you can see how it was used as setting in the two films I mentioned. (^_^)

Ain't it cool to know about these things? Very soon Filipinos and foreigners alike will be able to experience and stay in a Westin hotel in Southeast Asia, particularly here in the Philippines.

Have you ever seen or been in any of the abovementioned Westin Hotel and Resorts? Wouldn't you love it if you lived in one instead? Do share your thoughts in the comments. 😀

Anyway by February 2023 the Westin Manila hotel will finally open! On the other hand, The Residences at the Westin Manila Sonata Place will start turnover in the 1st Quarter of 2023 as well. Aren't you excited? 👀😁

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