Uptown Whittier is a vibrant area ideal for a film project. Uptown has been featured in numerous films and shows throughout the years due to its small-town charm. The City of Whittier’s Engineering Division with the Public Works Department is tasked with the issuance of film permits.
How to Apply for a Film Permit
- Obtain a Business License: For more information call the City of Whittier’s Business License Division at 562-567-9880 or visit their webpage here.
- Download the Required Permit Forms: Begin by downloading and completing the Film Permit Application and Film Permit Guidelines forms.
- Submit Your Application: Email the completed forms to the Public Works Department at PubWks@cityofwhittier.org
- Confirmation and Further Steps: Once your forms are received, Public Works Staff will contact you to confirm receipt and provide additional details on the application process.
- Need Assistance? For any questions, or if you need further guidance, reach out to the Engineering Division at (562) 567-9500.
Uptown Whittier in Films/Shows *(Partial List)
Back to the Future (1985) & Back to the Future II (1989):
Whittier High School was transformed into Hill Valley High School for Back to the Future and its sequel.
Masters of the Universe (1987):
He-Man (Dolph Lundgren) searches for a portal-opening cosmic key on Greenleaf Avenue.
The Wonder Years (TV Series, 1993):
The episode “Independence Day” was filmed on Greenleaf Avenue to simulate a Fourth of July Parade.
Father of the Bride II (1995):
Part of the film was filmed on Greenleaf Avenue.
Christmas in the City (TV Film, 2013):
Greenleaf Avenue was the site of the Ashley Williams’ candy shop in the film.
Glee (TV Series, 2015):
Lea Michele and Chord Overstreet re-created Vanessa Carlton’s “A Thousand Miles” music video on Greenleaf Avenue in the Season 6 episode titled
“The Hurt Locker: Part 1.”
Ray Donovan (TV Series, 2017):
A restaurant scene from an episode of Ray Donovan was filmed outside Mimo’s Café.
Spinning Man (2018):
Filming location included The Uptown Liquor for some exterior & interior scenes.
The Little Things (2021):
Bright Avenue was used in some scenes for this crime/thriller set in the ‘90s featuring Denzel Washington and Jared Leto.