Kennedy School Movies

The Kennedy School, a historic elementary school turned hotel and entertainment venue in Portland, Oregon, has been featured in several movies and television shows over the years. The unique blend of its educational past and current role as a lodging and entertainment hub makes it an attractive location for filmmakers. With its distinctive architecture and nostalgic charm, the Kennedy School has become a recognizable backdrop in various productions.
Introduction to the Kennedy School

The Kennedy School was originally built in 1915 and operated as an elementary school until its closure in 1975. After being purchased by the McMenamin brothers in 1997, the property underwent significant renovations, transforming it into a one-of-a-kind hotel, complete with 57 guest rooms, a restaurant, multiple bars, a movie theater, and a soaking pool. This eclectic mix of amenities, combined with its rich history, has captured the attention of filmmakers and television producers.
Movie and Television Appearances
The Kennedy School has made appearances in several notable films and television shows. One of its earliest and most prominent roles was in the 1999 film “Body Shots,” where the school’s exterior and interior were used as the primary filming location. Other productions, such as “Veronica Mars” and “Grimm,” have also utilized the Kennedy School’s unique setting to add depth and character to their storylines.
Production Title | Release Year | Role of the Kennedy School |
---|---|---|
Body Shots | 1999 | Primary filming location |
Veronica Mars | 2004-2007 | Featured location in several episodes |
Grimm | 2011-2017 | Used as a filming location for various episodes |

Behind the Scenes

When filming on location at the Kennedy School, production teams often take advantage of the property’s diverse amenities and settings. From the ornate details of the hotel’s lobby to the nostalgic charm of the former classrooms, every aspect of the Kennedy School offers a unique opportunity for creative storytelling. The McMenamin brothers, who own and operate the Kennedy School, work closely with filmmakers to ensure that their vision is brought to life, often incorporating the property’s history and character into the production.
Technical Specifications and Logistics
Filming at the Kennedy School requires careful planning and coordination. The property’s management team works with production crews to facilitate filming, providing access to various locations throughout the hotel and its amenities. With its extensive experience in hosting film and television productions, the Kennedy School has developed a streamlined process for accommodating the needs of filmmakers, from equipment rental and catering to accommodation for cast and crew.
The Kennedy School's technical specifications include:
- Multiple filming locations, including hotel rooms, restaurants, bars, and a movie theater
- On-site catering and dining options
- Equipment rental services
- Accommodation for cast and crew
- Experienced management team to facilitate filming logistics
Performance Analysis and Future Implications

The Kennedy School's appearances in film and television productions have contributed to its reputation as a unique and captivating location. As the property continues to evolve and expand its amenities, it is likely to remain a popular choice for filmmakers. The McMenamin brothers' commitment to preserving the school's history and character, while also innovating and adapting to the needs of the film industry, will ensure that the Kennedy School remains a beloved and recognizable location in the world of entertainment.
In terms of future implications, the Kennedy School's success as a filming location could lead to increased interest in similar historic properties, potentially sparking a trend in adaptive reuse and preservation of vintage buildings. As the film industry continues to grow and evolve, the demand for unique and authentic locations like the Kennedy School will likely increase, providing opportunities for other historic properties to be repurposed and showcased on the big and small screens.
What types of productions have filmed at the Kennedy School?
+The Kennedy School has been featured in various film and television productions, including movies like “Body Shots” and television shows such as “Veronica Mars” and “Grimm”.
What amenities does the Kennedy School offer for filmmakers?
+The Kennedy School provides a range of amenities for filmmakers, including on-site catering and dining options, equipment rental services, accommodation for cast and crew, and an experienced management team to facilitate filming logistics.
How can I inquire about filming at the Kennedy School?
+To inquire about filming at the Kennedy School, you can contact the property’s management team directly to discuss your production needs and determine availability.