The film was shot in New York City and tells the story of Val Waxman, a once-celebrated film director whose best days were in the 1970s and 1980s. Now reduced to shooting TV commercials, he finally gets a chance to helm a major studio project. However, the situation takes a sharp turn when, just before production begins, he psychosomatically goes blind due to paranoia. Rather than lose the job of a lifetime, Val and a small circle of trusted friends hide his blindness from studio executives and producers, continuing to shoot the film without being able to see a thing. The comedy explores themes of Hollywood ego, desperation, and the absurdity of the film industry, delivered with Woody Allen's trademark wit and neurotic humor. The filming extensively used iconic Manhattan locations, lending the film an authentic New York atmosphere that complements its satire of show business.

Filming Locations:

The Plaza Hotel

In the Film

Scene where Val Waxman visits the prestigious Plaza Hotel, one of the key Manhattan locations in the film, serving as a backdrop of luxurious New York, contrasting with Val's deteriorating personal situation and his desperate attempts to keep his career in the film industry.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the iconic luxury hotel on the southeastern corner of Central Park in the heart of Manhattan. Opened in 1907, it is one of the most famous and recognizable hotels in the world, appearing in countless films and cultural works. The building is an official New York City landmark and is located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Central Park South.

The Carlyle Hotel

In the Film

Scene where characters appear at the Carlyle Hotel on the Upper East Side, a place that naturally fits into the world of a film director moving in elite Manhattan circles as he tries to hide his sudden blindness from industry insiders and producers.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at an elite hotel on Manhattan's Upper East Side, known for its elegant Art Deco design and long association with high society and celebrity culture. Since its opening in 1930, it has been a favorite of presidents, musicians, and movie stars. The hotel is also famous for the Café Carlyle, where Woody Allen regularly performed with his jazz band.

Bethesda Fountain, Central Park

In the Film

Scene where a sequence takes place at the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park, one of the city's most recognizable outdoor landmarks, providing a classic New York backdrop for the story of Val's increasingly difficult efforts to shoot a film while completely blind.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at one of Central Park's most famous landmarks, located in the center of the park at the level of 72nd Street. The fountain is adorned with the Angel of the Waters sculpture and sits in Bethesda Terrace, a two-level architectural space considered the heart of Central Park. It is one of the most frequently filmed locations in New York and a popular gathering spot for visitors.