Atlanta’s Architectural Marvel: The Hotel with a Hollywood History
Welcome to Atlanta, the bustling capital of Georgia, where the skyline tells stories as tall as the buildings themselves. One of those stories revolves around a unique structure affectionately referred to by locals as the “pregnant building.” This notable icon is the Marriott Marquis, a dazzling 52-story, 1,663-room atrium hotel that has become a beloved spot not just for tourists, but also for filmmakers!
From Celebrated Designs to Cinematic Star
Since its debut in 1985, the Marriott Marquis has been much more than just a place to stay. Thanks to the creative vision of the late architect John Portman, this hotel boasts an architectural style that is as much a character in films as the actors themselves. According to Paul Buff, the hotel’s director of sales and marketing, “Our architecture lends itself to a unique view for the camera lens.” It’s easy to see why! Visitors often find themselves amazed by the hotel’s stunning atrium that stretches upward, creating an awe-inspiring backdrop for countless movie scenes.
Hollywood’s Favorite Filming Location
So, what makes this hotel a hotspot for filmmakers? In addition to its striking design, Atlanta has become a major hub for film and television productions, and the Marriott Marquis has seen its fair share of action. It has appeared in iconic films and shows such as the Hunger Games series, the upcoming miniseries A Man in Full, and various Marvel superhero flicks, including Spider-Man: Homecoming, Ms. Marvel, and Loki.
But that’s not all! This cinematic haven was also featured in Denzel Washington’s gripping 2012 thriller, Flight. With so many appearances, it begs the question: how does a nearly 40-year-old hotel remain relevant on the silver screen?
According to Buff, it involves having a dedicated sales team that keeps a sharp eye on upcoming productions in Georgia. The team knows how to position the hotel as a prime location, and it pays dividends. “With Mr. Portman’s vision and design,” Buff explains, “our hotel has been portrayed in both current times as well as into the future.”
A Treasure for Fans and Creatives Alike
It’s not just the filmmakers who adore the hotel. The Marriott Marquis has also secured its place as a go-to venue for fans of all things fantasy, as one of the host hotels for Dragon Con, the wildly popular annual science fiction, fantasy, and comic festival held on Labor Day weekend. Here, the hotel transforms into familiar sights, doubling as the Tribute Center in The Hunger Games and the Time Variance Authority in Loki.
Even if you aren’t a film buff, stepping foot into the hotel is an experience like no other. With its soaring atrium and immaculate design, guests regularly find themselves looking up in wonder, often pulling out their phones to capture the stunning visuals. Buff adds, “On any given day, our hotel guests can be found looking up into our 52-story atrium while pulling out their phones to take photos.”
Conclusion: A Legacy of Design and Film
Whether you’re a casual tourist, a devoted movie fan, or simply someone who enjoys breathtaking design, the Marriott Marquis stands out as a must-visit destination in Atlanta. This extraordinary hotel not only showcases the brilliance of architectural innovation but continues to inspire filmmakers and fans alike—a true emblem of the city’s charm and creativity!
As Atlanta continues to evolve as a major hub for movie-making, the Marriott Marquis will undoubtedly remain an essential part of its cinematic landscape.
