Family Films Set in San Francisco

Description: This classic musical drama captures the spirit of San Francisco before and after the 1906 earthquake. It's a historical piece that showcases the city's resilience and community spirit.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use Technicolor for its musical numbers. The earthquake scene was recreated using miniatures and special effects, which were groundbreaking for the time.

Description: This comedy classic features Robin Williams as a father who disguises himself as a British nanny to spend more time with his children after a divorce. San Francisco's diverse neighborhoods provide a colorful backdrop to this touching family tale.

Fact: Robin Williams improvised much of his dialogue, making the character of Mrs. Doubtfire uniquely memorable. The film was also one of the first to use CGI to transform an actor's appearance.

Description: Although primarily an action thriller, this film features scenes in San Francisco, including Alcatraz Island, where a group of rogue military men take hostages. It's a thrilling ride through the city's landmarks.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use CGI to recreate Alcatraz Island. Sean Connery was paid $20 million for his role, making him one of the highest-paid actors at the time.

Description: This remake of the 1961 film follows twin sisters separated at birth who meet at summer camp and swap places to reunite their parents. San Francisco serves as the home for one of the twins.

Fact: Lindsay Lohan played both twins, marking her first major film role. The film was shot in both California and London.

Description: Jennifer Lopez stars as a wedding planner in San Francisco who falls for the groom of one of her clients. The city's romantic settings, like the Palace of Fine Arts, add to the film's charm.

Fact: The film was one of the first major roles for Matthew McConaughey. The wedding scene at the end was filmed at the Filoli estate in Woodside, California.

Description: A high school student from San Francisco discovers she's the princess of a small European country. The city's landmarks, like the Palace of Fine Arts, are featured prominently as Mia Thermopolis navigates her new royal life.

Fact: The film's director, Garry Marshall, had a cameo as the man who gets hit by a pie. Also, the fictional country of Genovia was inspired by Monaco.

Description: This inspiring true story follows a struggling salesman in San Francisco who takes custody of his son while pursuing a better life. The city's landmarks, like the Transamerica Pyramid, are seen as symbols of hope and perseverance.

Fact: Will Smith's son, Jaden Smith, played his real-life son in the film. The movie's title misspells "Happiness" to reflect the actual sign Chris Gardner saw.

Description: A former Playboy Bunny moves into a sorority house in San Francisco, teaching the girls how to embrace their individuality. The film captures the city's youthful energy and diverse community.

Fact: Anna Faris, who plays the lead, was actually a sorority member in real life. The film was inspired by the real-life sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha.

Description: While not exclusively set in San Francisco, the fictional city of San Fransokyo blends elements of both cities. This animated adventure follows a young robotics prodigy and his inflatable robot as they fight crime, showcasing the city's unique skyline.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. The character Baymax was inspired by a real-life inflatable robot designed by the film's co-director.

Description: While not strictly a family film, this coming-of-age story features San Francisco as a backdrop for the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and romance. The city's iconic locations, like the Bay Bridge, are featured.

Fact: Dustin Hoffman was not the first choice for the role; Robert Redford was considered but deemed too handsome for the part. The film's soundtrack by Simon & Garfunkel became iconic.