Boston on Screen: 10 Films to Watch

Description: This gritty crime drama captures the essence of Boston's criminal underworld in the early '70s, focusing on an aging small-time crook who must navigate the treacherous waters of loyalty and betrayal.

Fact: The film was shot entirely on location in Boston, providing a raw and authentic portrayal of the city. It's based on a novel by George V. Higgins, who was a former Assistant U.S. Attorney in Boston.

Description: This film captures the essence of South Boston, focusing on a young genius janitor who must navigate his life's challenges with the help of a compassionate psychologist. It's a love letter to Boston, showcasing its working-class neighborhoods and intellectual community.

Fact: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, both Boston natives, wrote the screenplay, which won them an Academy Award. The film's iconic park bench scene was shot in Boston Public Garden.

Description: Although not entirely set in Boston, this cult classic features two Irish-American brothers from South Boston who take justice into their own hands, reflecting the city's Irish heritage and vigilante themes.

Fact: The film was shot in Toronto, but it's set in Boston, and the director, Troy Duffy, was inspired by his own experiences in the city.

Description: Clint Eastwood's dark drama explores the impact of a childhood tragedy on three friends from Boston's East Bayside neighborhood, weaving a tale of guilt, revenge, and redemption.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations around Boston, including Dorchester. The story is loosely based on Dennis Lehane's novel of the same name, which is set in Boston.

Description: This romantic comedy uses Boston's beloved Red Sox baseball team as a backdrop to explore the relationship between a die-hard fan and his girlfriend, highlighting the city's sports culture.

Fact: The film was shot during actual Red Sox games at Fenway Park, capturing the team's historic 2004 World Series win.

Description: Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning film dives deep into Boston's underworld, portraying the city's Irish-American community and its criminal elements. The story revolves around an undercover cop and a mole in the police department, both trying to outwit each other.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Boston, including at the Massachusetts State House. Jack Nicholson improvised many of his lines, adding to the film's raw energy.

Description: Set in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood, this film follows two private investigators searching for a missing child, uncovering layers of corruption and moral dilemmas along the way.

Fact: Casey Affleck, who stars in the film, is a Boston native, adding authenticity to his performance. The movie was adapted from a novel by Dennis Lehane, who also wrote "Mystic River."

Description: Ben Affleck directs and stars in this heist thriller set in Charlestown, Boston, known for its high rate of bank robberies. The film delves into the lives of bank robbers and their complex relationships with the city and its people.

Fact: Affleck insisted on filming in Boston to capture the authentic feel of the city. The movie includes a famous scene where robbers wear nun costumes during a heist.

Description: This film tells the true story of the 1952 Coast Guard rescue off the coast of Massachusetts, showcasing the bravery of Boston's maritime community.

Fact: The movie was filmed in Massachusetts, including at the Chatham Fish Pier, to authentically depict the harsh conditions of the rescue.

Description: This comedy-drama recounts the real-life 1950 Brink's robbery in Boston, where a group of small-time crooks pulled off one of the largest heists in U.S. history.

Fact: The film was shot in Boston, including at the actual site of the robbery. Peter Falk, known for his role in "Columbo," plays the mastermind behind the heist.