Where Was "Pretty In Pink" Filmed? Uncovering The Movie's Setting

Intrigued to know where the iconic movie "Pretty in Pink" was brought to life on screen?

The beloved 1986 film "Pretty in Pink" was predominantly filmed in and around the Chicago metropolitan area, capturing the essence of the city's diverse neighborhoods and vibrant energy.

The exteriors of the Andie Walsh's modest home, where much of the movie's plot unfolds, were filmed in a charming residential area in the North Shore suburb of Highland Park, Illinois. The school scenes, showcasing Andie's interactions with her classmates, were captured at Glenbrook North High School in Northbrook, Illinois.

The movie's iconic record store, where Andie and Duckie work and share their passion for music, was brought to life in Wrigleyville, a bustling neighborhood on Chicago's North Side. The interior shots were filmed at a now-defunct store called "Wax Trax! Records," while the exterior was filmed at a different location on Clark Street.

The unforgettable prom scene, a pivotal moment in the film, was shot at the elegant Drake Hotel on Chicago's Magnificent Mile. This luxurious setting provided a backdrop for the characters' emotional climaxes and the unforgettable dance sequences.

Beyond these key locations, "Pretty in Pink" also utilized various other Chicago landmarks and neighborhoods to create its authentic urban atmosphere. The film's production team sought to capture the city's diverse character and showcase its cultural richness.

Where is Pretty in Pink Filmed

The 1986 film "Pretty in Pink" was predominantly filmed in and around the Chicago metropolitan area. Here are 7 key aspects related to its filming locations:

• North Shore, Highland Park, Illinois: Andie Walsh's home exterior
• Glenbrook North High School, Northbrook, Illinois: School scenes
• Wrigleyville, Chicago, Illinois: Record store exterior and interior (Wax Trax! Records)
• Drake Hotel, Chicago, Illinois: Prom scene
• Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago, Illinois: Library scene
• St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Glencoe, Illinois: Church exterior
• Edens Plaza, Wilmette, Illinois: Shopping mall scenes

These locations were carefully chosen to capture the film's themes of class conflict, social status, and teenage angst. The North Shore suburbs represented Andie's affluent world, while Wrigleyville embodied the more bohemian and alternative scene frequented by Duckie. The juxtaposition of these locations highlighted the characters' different backgrounds and aspirations.

North Shore, Highland Park, Illinois

In the 1986 film "Pretty in Pink," the exterior of Andie Walsh's home was filmed in a charming residential area in the North Shore suburb of Highland Park, Illinois. This location choice played a significant role in establishing Andie's character and the film's overall themes.

The North Shore is an affluent area known for its large homes and manicured lawns, representing the upper-middle-class world that Andie aspires to. By setting her home in this neighborhood, the filmmakers visually communicated her desire to fit in with the popular crowd and escape her working-class roots.

The contrast between Andie's modest home and the opulent mansions of her classmates further highlighted the class conflict that is a central theme of the film. Andie's struggle to reconcile her own identity with the expectations of society is reflected in the juxtaposition of her home's exterior with the surrounding neighborhood.

The choice of Highland Park as the filming location for Andie's home was not only aesthetically pleasing but also symbolically resonant. The town's reputation as a wealthy enclave reinforced the film's exploration of class differences and the challenges faced by those who do not conform to societal norms.

Glenbrook North High School, Northbrook, Illinois

Glenbrook North High School in Northbrook, Illinois, served as the primary filming location for the school scenes in the 1986 film "Pretty in Pink." This choice was significant for several reasons:

• Authenticity: Glenbrook North is a real high school, which lent an air of authenticity to the film's portrayal of teenage life. The school's architecture, classrooms, and hallways provided a realistic backdrop for the characters' interactions and the exploration of high school social dynamics.
• Visual appeal: The school's modern and spacious facilities provided a visually appealing setting for the film. The bright and airy classrooms, expansive hallways, and well-maintained grounds created a visually pleasing environment that complemented the film'sful and vibrant tone.
• Location: Glenbrook North's location in the affluent North Shore suburbs of Chicago aligned with the film's themes of class and social status. The school's proximity to the wealthy communities of Highland Park and Lake Forest helped establish the socioeconomic context of the film's characters and their struggles.
• Accessibility: Glenbrook North's location within the Chicago metropolitan area made it easily accessible for the film's cast and crew. This accessibility allowed for efficient filming and contributed to the overall production timeline.

The use of Glenbrook North High School as the filming location for the school scenes in "Pretty in Pink" not only provided an authentic and visually appealing setting but also reinforced the film's themes and resonated with audiences who could relate to the high school experiences depicted on screen.

Wrigleyville, Chicago, Illinois

The connection between "Wrigleyville, Chicago, Illinois: Record store exterior and interior (Wax Trax! Records)" and "where is pretty in pink filmed" is significant for several reasons:

Authenticity: The use of Wax Trax! Records, a real and iconic record store in Wrigleyville, lent an air of authenticity to the film's portrayal of the Chicago music scene. The store's unique atmosphere, eclectic collection of records, and knowledgeable staff helped create a believable setting for the characters' interactions.

Cultural significance: Wax Trax! Records was a cultural hub for Chicago's alternative music scene in the 1980s. By featuring the store in the film, the filmmakers tapped into the city's vibrant music culture and showcased the importance of independent record stores in fostering artistic expression and community.

Character development: The record store served as a central location for the development of Andie and Duckie's characters. Their shared love of music brought them together and provided a common ground for their friendship. The store's atmosphere allowed them to express themselves freely and escape the social pressures of high school.

Visual appeal: The record store's visually appealing interior, with its colorful album covers, vintage posters, and dim lighting, created a memorable and distinctive setting for the film. The store's unique aesthetic contributed to the film's overall visual style and atmosphere.

The choice of Wrigleyville, Chicago, Illinois, as the filming location for the record store exterior and interior in "Pretty in Pink" not only provided an authentic and visually appealing backdrop but also reinforced the film's themes of individuality, self-expression, and the power of music in shaping teenage identity.

Drake Hotel, Chicago, Illinois

The connection between "Drake Hotel, Chicago, Illinois: Prom scene" and "where is pretty in pink filmed" holds significant relevance due to the iconic status of the location and its role in shaping the film's narrative and visual aesthetics:

• Symbolic Significance: The Drake Hotel represents a symbol of luxury and elegance, embodying the aspirations and dreams of Andie, the film's protagonist. The choice of this location for the prom scene reinforces the film's themes of class conflict and social status, as Andie navigates the complexities of her relationship with Blane, a wealthy and popular student.
• Visual Appeal: The Drake Hotel's opulent interiors and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan provide a visually stunning backdrop for the prom scene. The film's production team effectively captures the grandeur and sophistication of the setting, creating a memorable and visually engaging moment for the audience.
• Character Development: The prom scene is a pivotal moment in Andie's character development. Her transformation from an awkward and self-conscious teenager to a confident and radiant young woman is visually represented through her choice of attire and her interactions with others at the event. The hotel's luxurious setting provides the perfect stage for this personal growth and transformation.
• Cultural Context: The Drake Hotel has been a Chicago landmark since the early 20th century, representing the city's rich history and cultural heritage. By filming the prom scene at this iconic location, the filmmakers connect the film to the cultural fabric of Chicago and provide a sense of authenticity and local flavor.

In conclusion, the Drake Hotel's significance in "where is pretty in pink filmed" goes beyond its physical presence. It serves as a symbolic representation of the film's themes, provides a visually appealing setting, facilitates character development, and connects the film to the cultural context of Chicago.

Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago, Illinois

The connection between "Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago, Illinois: Library scene" and "where is pretty in pink filmed" lies in the film's deliberate choice of this iconic location to enhance its narrative and visual impact. The Chicago Cultural Center serves as a backdrop for a pivotal scene in the film, contributing to its overall meaning and resonating with viewers on several levels:

Symbolic Significance: The Chicago Cultural Center represents a symbol of knowledge, culture, and intellectual pursuit. By setting the library scene in this location, the filmmakers establish a connection between Andie's personal journey and the broader themes of education, self-discovery, and the power of literature. The library's grand architecture and impressive collection of books create a visually stunning setting that reinforces the film's exploration of these themes.

Character Development: The library scene is a turning point in Andie's character development. As she browses the shelves and encounters Duckie, her initial resistance towards him begins to soften. The library's quiet and intimate atmosphere provides a safe space for this interaction, allowing Andie to gradually open up and reveal her true feelings. The scene captures the complexities of her character and her evolving relationship with Duckie.

Visual Appeal: The Chicago Cultural Center's visually stunning interiors, with its intricate stained-glass windows, grand staircases, and ornate ceilings, provide a captivating backdrop for the library scene. The filmmakers effectively utilize the location's architectural beauty to create a memorable and visually engaging moment for the audience. The library's aesthetic appeal complements the film's overall visual style, which combines elements of realism and fantasy.

Cultural Context: The Chicago Cultural Center is a beloved Chicago landmark, representing the city's rich cultural heritage and its commitment to the arts. By filming the library scene at this iconic location, the filmmakers connect the film to the cultural fabric of Chicago and provide a sense of authenticity and local flavor. The choice of the Chicago Cultural Center as the setting for this pivotal scene reinforces the film's connection to its urban environment and its exploration of teenage life in a specific cultural context.

In conclusion, the connection between "Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago, Illinois: Library scene" and "where is pretty in pink filmed" underscores the film's careful attention to location and its use as a storytelling tool. The Chicago Cultural Center serves as more than just a backdrop; it becomes an integral part of the film's narrative, character development, visual aesthetics, and cultural context.

St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Glencoe, Illinois

The connection between "St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Glencoe, Illinois: Church exterior" and "where is pretty in pink filmed" lies in the film's deliberate choice of this location to enhance its narrative and visual impact. The church serves as a backdrop for a pivotal scene in the film, contributing to its overall meaning and resonating with viewers on several levels:

• Symbolic Significance: The church represents a symbol of tradition, community, and spirituality. By setting the wedding scene in this location, the filmmakers establish a connection between Andie's personal journey and the broader themes of love, commitment, and the search for belonging. The church's grand architecture and religious iconography create a visually stunning setting that reinforces the film's exploration of these themes.
• Character Development: The wedding scene is a turning point in Andie's character development. As she stands at the altar, torn between her feelings for Blane and Duckie, she must confront her true desires and make a choice that will shape her future. The church's sacred and intimate atmosphere provides a powerful backdrop for this moment of self-discovery and personal growth.
• Visual Appeal: St. Peter's Episcopal Church's visually stunning exterior, with its intricate stonework, stained-glass windows, and manicured grounds, provides a captivating backdrop for the wedding scene. The filmmakers effectively utilize the location's architectural beauty to create a memorable and visually engaging moment for the audience. The church's aesthetic appeal complements the film's overall visual style, which combines elements of realism and fantasy.
• Cultural Context: St. Peter's Episcopal Church is a beloved Glencoe landmark, representing the town's rich history and its commitment to community. By filming the wedding scene at this iconic location, the filmmakers connect the film to the cultural fabric of Glencoe and provide a sense of authenticity and local flavor. The choice of St. Peter's Episcopal Church as the setting for this pivotal scene reinforces the film's connection to its suburban environment and its exploration of teenage life in a specific cultural context.

In conclusion, the connection between "St. Peter's Episcopal Church, Glencoe, Illinois: Church exterior" and "where is pretty in pink filmed" underscores the film's careful attention to location and its use as a storytelling tool. St. Peter's Episcopal Church serves as more than just a backdrop; it becomes an integral part of the film's narrative, character development, visual aesthetics, and cultural context.

Edens Plaza, Wilmette, Illinois

The connection between "Edens Plaza, Wilmette, Illinois: Shopping mall scenes" and "where is pretty in pink filmed" lies in the film's deliberate choice of this location to enhance its narrative and visual impact. The shopping mall serves as a backdrop for several pivotal scenes in the film, contributing to its overall meaning and resonating with viewers on several levels:

• Symbolic Significance: The shopping mall represents a symbol of consumerism, materialism, and social status. By setting scenes in this location, the filmmakers establish a connection between the film's exploration of teenage identity and the pressures and expectations of society. The mall's bright lights, flashy storefronts, and bustling crowds create a visually stimulating and immersive environment that reinforces the film's themes.
• Character Development: The shopping mall scenes are crucial for the development of Andie's character. As she navigates the mall's corridors and interacts with its diverse patrons, she grapples with issues of self-acceptance, social conformity, and her own sense of individuality. The mall's environment provides a backdrop for her personal growth and transformation.
• Visual Appeal: Edens Plaza's visually appealing interiors, with its colorful storefronts, vibrant lighting, and Art Deco architecture, provide a visually stunning backdrop for the shopping mall scenes. The filmmakers effectively utilize the location's aesthetic appeal to create memorable and engaging moments for the audience. The mall's unique visual identity complements the film's overall visual style, which combines elements of realism and fantasy.
• Cultural Context: Edens Plaza is a beloved Wilmette landmark, representing the town's suburban lifestyle and its focus on consumerism. By filming the shopping mall scenes at this iconic location, the filmmakers connect the film to the cultural fabric of Wilmette and provide a sense of authenticity and local flavor. The choice of Edens Plaza as the setting for these scenes reinforces the film's exploration of teenage life in a specific cultural context.

In conclusion, the connection between "Edens Plaza, Wilmette, Illinois: Shopping mall scenes" and "where is pretty in pink filmed" underscores the film's careful attention to location and its use as a storytelling tool. Edens Plaza serves as more than just a backdrop; it becomes an integral part of the film's narrative, character development, visual aesthetics, and cultural context.

FAQs about "Where is Pretty in Pink Filmed"

This section addresses frequently asked questions about the filming locations of the iconic 1986 film "Pretty in Pink."

Question 1: Where was the exterior of Andie Walsh's home filmed?

Answer: The exterior of Andie Walsh's home was filmed in a charming residential area in the North Shore suburb of Highland Park, Illinois.

Question 2: Where were the school scenes filmed?

Answer: The school scenes were filmed at Glenbrook North High School in Northbrook, Illinois.

Question 3: Where was the record store exterior and interior filmed?

Answer: The record store exterior was filmed at a different location on Clark Street, while the interior was filmed at the now-defunct store "Wax Trax! Records" in Wrigleyville, Chicago.

Question 4: Where was the prom scene filmed?

Answer: The prom scene was filmed at the elegant Drake Hotel on Chicago's Magnificent Mile.

Question 5: Where was the library scene filmed?

Answer: The library scene was filmed at the Chicago Cultural Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Question 6: Where was the church exterior filmed?

Answer: The church exterior was filmed at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Glencoe, Illinois.

These filming locations played a significant role in establishing the film's themes, characters, and overall atmosphere.

In addition to these key locations, "Pretty in Pink" also utilized various other Chicago landmarks and neighborhoods to create its authentic urban atmosphere. The film's production team sought to capture the city's diverse character and showcase its cultural richness.

Conclusion

Our exploration of "where is pretty in pink filmed" has taken us through the charming streets of Highland Park, the bustling hallways of Glenbrook North High School, the iconic record store of Wrigleyville, the elegant Drake Hotel, the historic Chicago Cultural Center, and the beautiful church exterior of Glencoe. Each of these locations played a vital role in shaping the film's narrative, character development, and visual aesthetics.

Through its careful choice of filming locations, "Pretty in Pink" not only captured the essence of teenage life in the 1980s but also showcased the diverse cultural landscape of Chicago. The film's enduring popularity is a testament to its authentic and relatable portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of adolescence. As we revisit the film's iconic scenes, we are reminded of the power of cinema to transport us to different worlds and evoke cherished memories.