Hollywood's Best Kept Secret: 11 Famous Movies Shot in CT

Connecticut is quickly becoming a favorite destination for filmmakers looking to capture beautiful, diverse settings. In the summer of 2024, Chair 10 Productions filmed Summerhouse here, and they're currently shooting a horror film, Monster, in New Milford, Danbury, and New Haven.

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This got me thinking—what are some of the most iconic films ever made in the Nutmeg State? After recalling a few from memory, I turned to the trusty Google machine and discovered several other big names that were filmed right here. Here's a list of some of the most famous movies shot in Connecticut.

Hollywood's Best Kept Secret: 11 Famous Movies Shot in Connecticut

Connecticut has long been a favorite filming location for major Hollywood productions. Over the years, the state has played host to a variety of iconic films, showcasing its diverse landscapes and charming towns. From blockbusters to beloved classics, here are 11 of the most famous movies that were filmed right here in the Nutmeg State.

Gallery Credit: Lou Milano

I’ve always been a huge movie fan, and it’s that is almost like saying I love ice cream, but I can't help it—it's a passion that runs deep. In fact, I watch probably 120 films a year which is kind of embarrassing to admit but it's true. It’s not just the stories that captivate me, but the filmmaking process itself. Luckily, my job has given me some incredible opportunities to see and work on television and movie sets. Standing on set and watching the magic happen is an exhilarating experience for any film lover. I plan on doing more of this in the near future, WINK.

There I am acting on the set of "Deer Hill Avenue" circa 2015.

Deer Hill Avenue - John Balis

Here I am acting (walking) on the set of "Candlewood" in 2023.

Photo: Lou Milano

Exclusive Photos, Videos, and Interviews on the Set of New Milford Horror Movie

"Candlewood" is a horror film that just finished filming in New Milford, CT. This is how the filmmakers described the project on their Indiegogo:

"Candlewood is the first movie of three in the psychological/horror feature film franchise. A blended family moves from the city to a small town in Connecticut, where a local urban legend adds chaos and terror to an already fragile family dynamic. The staunch patriarch, who desperately wants his family to not see him as a failure but as the father that did everything, he could to keep his family together through difficult times. Candlewood follows a family leaving New York City for a simpler life in the country town of New Milford, CT. The haunting and mysterious true stories of missing hikers near a popular state park, Lover's Leap, coupled with the town of Jerusalem sitting at the bottom of Candlewood Lake gives credibility to our narrative. We bring to life the struggle of good vs evil and what happens when lifelong, outdated traditions are challenged."

A while back I got in touch with the folks behind the movie, invited them on the I-95 Morning Show with Ethan, Lou and Dave and talked about the film, and shooting in New Milford. We spoke with Director Myke Furhman and Writer/Executive Producer Victoria Flores-Argue. During that discussion, I demanded to be in the movie, telling the duo that I have some experience acting on TV shows that never actually made it onto TV. Against all odds, they did invite me to participate and I visited the set on October 20th to shoot a scene that is important. I was extremely nervous and I had zero idea of what I was in for. Below are some insider moments from my day on-set and from others.

Gallery Credit: Lou Milano

Connecticut's Top 7 Cheapest Grocery Stores 2024

CT in 2024: Rats, Roads, Wealth, and Debt—The Stats You Need to Know

In 2024, Connecticut’s identity has been shaped by a series of eye-opening rankings and studies. From its surprising place on the list of the rattiest cities to its reputation for having some of the best roads in the nation, the year has offered a wide range of insights into life in the Nutmeg State. Alongside these unexpected high points, Connecticut also faced tough realities like record debt, a reputation for being one of the most boring states, and high rental costs. This gallery takes a closer look at the statistics and figures that have helped define the state’s image in 2024.

What this gallery really proves is I worked my ass off. That is the most important takeaway. Just sayin'

Gallery Credit: Lou Milano

Want more CT news and entertainment? Check out the Ethan, Lou & Large Dave Podcast. The show is available wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple and Spotify. The program is the same one we do on the radio but with limited commercials and no music. You can also listen live by streaming the show on the I-95 Rock Mobile app or tune into I-95 (95.1FM).

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