Directors have flocked to the Upper West Side this summer to film TV shows and films set in bygone eras. The most recent filming was for “Boys in the Band”, a remake of a 1970 film and recent Broadway play that will appear on Netflix. Stars include Jim Parsons, Zachary Quinto, Andrew Rannells, and Matt Bomer, who were also the stars of the Broadway production, according to Playbill.
“The play, considered a seminal piece of queer storytelling in the 20th century, follows a group of gay men who convene in a New York City apartment for a friend’s birthday party. As the evening continues, the cracks beneath their friendships begin to show, bringing to light self-inflicted heartache and identity crises.”
They were shooting in front of Barney Greengrass on Amsterdam near 87th Street, as seen in the photo above taken by Christine Avampato in late August. It’s an appropriate spot for almost any show set in the 20th century, given that Barney Greengrass has been around since 1908.
And it wasn’t the only time vintage cars and outfits have been paraded through the neighborhood in recent weeks.
“The Plot Against America” (below) brought the 1940’s back to West 83rd Street. “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” brought its 1950’s style to various sections of the neighborhood. And Steven Spielberg took West 107th Street back to the 50’s too for “West Side Story”.
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My cousin took me to see the original movie when I was about 13. He thought it was a musical.
I’d already read the script so I knew – but he didn’t
He thought my parents would be upset – but they were fine. We grew up with tons of gay friends – (this was back in the 60’s and 70s) It was just normal to us. Wish some of those men and women were still around to see same sex marriage.
Cliff Gorman (Emery) lived on my block. My mom and I passed him with his wife and Mom called out, “”Emery!!” Mr. Gorman jumped right into character. He was a gracious and talented man.
boffo !!!!
my late father was in the same class at Music & Art High School as Cliff Gorman, and Cliff said nobody could make him laugh like my dad. I don’t know his older work, but he was great in Hoffa and Ghost Dog.
This is finally Matt Bomer’s chance to meet and fall in love with me!
That would be quite a feat considering Mr. Matt Bomer is married with three children.
The recent revival was creaky at best. Hoping Netflix can provide a bit more artistry.