Given its idyllic beach setting and world famous nightlife, there are plenty of movies filmed in Miami Beach, Florida. Ranging from slapstick comedy to fight crime drama, there is a mix of the good, bad and ugly. Thankfully there are some true cinematic gems and here is a list of my top five movies filmed in Miami Beach. These movies do more than entertain, they make us laugh and cry, and they inspire us to travel. Consider this sightseeing from the comfort of your home. So pop these movies into your DVD player and let your mind wander to a tropical beach and feel the sand between your toes.
Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994)
It may seem like Jim Carrey has been famous forever but it was this movie where he got his start as an over the top comedic actor. Making silly jokes while looking ridiculous, pet detective Ace Ventura attempts to track down the Miami Dolphin’s mascot, Snowflake. Jim Carrey capitalizes on his signature style of physical comedy and Ace manages to save the day just in time for the Super Bowl.
The Birdcage (1996)
Proving that Miami Beach is more than just cop shows, drug busts and beaches, and the Birdcage recognizes the Miami residents of the established gay and lesbian community. Robin Williams and Nathan Lane do not disappoint in this purposefully outlandish comedy about facing the realities of modern families with more than a few eccentric individuals. With noteworthy performances from Nathan Lane as a dramatic, be prepared to laugh until your sides split.
Scarface (1983)
Epic movie. Perhaps the gold standard for all future Miami crime dramas, Scarface is full of extreme violence, drugs and obscenities. In short, destined to be a classic. The film follows the king pin Tony Montana in his pursuit of the American dream and he so eloquently outlines his vision, “In this country, you gotta make the money first. Then when you get the money, you get the power.”
Miami Vice (2007)
Perhaps cliché, but you cannot list movies about Miami Beach without mentioning it. Based on the 80s popular TV series which made Miami Beach, Don Johnson and white suit jackets famous, Jamie Foxx and Colin Farrell boldly took on their action packed roles with style. The rumor mill was working overtime during the production of this film and see if you can notice any tension in the movie.