The Hamptons cast a long cultural shadow; for such a small location, the East End is still one of the most iconic locations in the country and in the world. Even before you ever visit or move here, you likely know the Hamptons from movies and films. Hamptons.com has compiled our picks for the most iconic Hamptons appearances in film.
Succession, Series Finale (2023)
Definitely one of the most memorable scenes in this touchstone show. You can’t have a show about wealthy New Yorkers and NOT mention the Hamptons. This is a great inclusion because we have plenty of outdoor shots that were actually filmed in the Hamptons. You also likely recognize the home that they chose for Adrien Brody’s VC character – the mega modern estate at the end of Beach Lane.
Also, an honorable mention to Bridgehampton’s Candee Kitchen, which was shouted out in the Succession series finale.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
When I tell people about the Hamptons, they almost always mention this movie! You know, when Jim Carrey takes an early morning LIRR train from Queens to Montauk in the middle of January. The shots of the winter beach are iconic, highlighting the peace and seclusion of the East End. Like many great love stories, it started with two strangers talking on the train!
Grey Gardens (1975, Documentary) (2009, Film)
We’re talking about the documentary and the made-for-TV movie with Drew Barrymore (herself a Hamptonite!) Honestly, you have to start with the documentary. It’s bizarre and brilliant and unlike anything I’ve ever seen. This list wouldn’t be complete without it.
The aristocratic estate in disarray, the fascinating family dynamics, South of the Highway, hundreds of cats, plus two relatives of Jackie O. Also, the property is still here! Albeit, unrecognizable due to restoration.
Pollack (2000)
True Hamptons royalty, Jackson Pollack’s bio-pic, chronicles the life and artistry of the American painter featuring Ed Harris and Marcia Gay Harden. Shot predominantly at the late artist’s former residence in Springs, the movie also captures scenes at the Southampton railroad station, the old Miller Store, and Springs Fireplace Road. Marcia Gay Harden earned an Oscar for her outstanding performance in the film.
The Affair (TV Show, 2014–2019)
We all remember the filming of this show. Set in Montauk and depicts beautiful people in a beautiful place dealing with some ugly truths – a tale as old as time.
Lots of East End Easter Eggs in this show, especially in the many, many on-location shots filmed in Montauk!
JAWS (1975)
Filmed entirely on Martha’s Vineyard, JAWS , took inspiration from Peter Benchley’s best-selling book set in the Hamptons. Director Steven Spielberg, who later bought a home in the Hamptons, has become a frequent presence in the area.
The late Roy Scheider also made the Hamptons his home soon after the film’s production.
No Hard Feelings (2022)
Jennifer Lawrence is a Hamptons regular, so we all knew she would show some local-love in this raunchy comedy set entirely in Montauk.
How cool is it that the actual Saldivar’s Clam & Chowder House was included in the movie?
Something’s Gotta Give (2004)
This romantic comedy film was directed by Nancy Meyers and stars Jack Nicholson, Diane Keaton and Keanu Reeves. The movie is set in the Hamptons, offering a picturesque backdrop to the love story. The Hamptons’ affluent lifestyle serves as a fitting setting for the characters’ upscale experiences.
Charming and beautifully shot, this one gets the Hamptons right. Plus, the home the movie was filmed in sold in 2014 for $41,000,000!
American Horror Story: Delicate (2023)
AHS took a dip into the Long Island waters in the last season, but they got stuck on Fire Island. This time around, our protagonists find themselves in the Hamptons seeking some respite and relaxation. Personally, I love that they show the commute back and forth from New York City. Points gained for poking fun at “the Hamptons are dead, anyways” (yeah, right). Dead giveaway that its NOT in the Hamptons – look at the trees. Absolutely not native plantings. Good try, though, I’m sure permitting to film here is a real…horror story.
White Chicks (2004)
Throwback! Definitely hard to recognize the Hamptons because it wasn’t filmed here, and that was 20 years ago and lots have changed since.
Still, The Hamptons is the perfect place for this movie to highlight some of the more satirical aspects of chic, Hamptons sophistication. I would love to see Terry Crews bust his signature moves at the Surf Lodge.
Wolf of Wall Street (2013) / Wall Street (1987)
We’re combing these two since the movies are just partially set in the Hamptons, but cannot be ignore because of how iconic these Hamptons party scenes are! Against the backdrop of luxurious estates, these scenes unfold with lavish indulgence. The Wolf of Wall Street’s infamous party scene in the Hamptons is a hedonistic spectacle that captures how the Hamptons are viewed from the outside: as a party destination. (We know its more than that!) Wall Street’s Hamptons party scene captures the decadence and high-society extravagance synonymous with the iconic financial world depicted in the film.
