Hollywood hits Providence: Glen Powell films Ghostwriter as Rhode Island becomes movie filming hotspot

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Hollywood lights this week in Providence. College Hill transformed into a film set as Ghostwriter, directed by J.J. Abrams and starring Glen Powell, shot bike-riding scenes with Powell greeting fans between takes. It’s just the latest example of how Rhode Island is quickly becoming a cinematic hotspot.

In the past few years, the Ocean State has hosted a growing list of big-name productions:

• Hocus Pocus 2 (2022, Disney+): Shot at Chase Farm in Lincoln, Benefit Street and LaSalle Academy in Providence, Newport’s Washington Square, and inside the Cranston Street Armory.

• Good Burger 2 (2023, Paramount+): Filmed in North Providence, with a former Friendly’s transformed into the iconic burger joint.

• Ella McCay (2024): James L. Brooks’ political drama filmed at the Rhode Island State House and other locations in Providence.

• Bad News on the Doorstep (2025): A coming-of-age mafia drama filmed around Providence with stars like Chazz Palminteri and Robert Davi.

• Remain (2025): A supernatural thriller directed by M. Night Shyamalan, starring Jake Gyllenhaal, with scenes in Newport, Bristol, Warren, and the Cranston Street Armory.

• Seeking Sister Wife (2025): This TLC series features polygamous families with one of the new couples being Matt and Anjelica Johnson from Rhode Island.

• The Real Housewives of Rhode Island (2025): Bravo’s new reality spinoff now filming across the state.

From blockbuster sequels to new Hollywood dramas, Rhode Island has become a true star of the screen.

Video: @jasdansarlak (Instagram)

Glen Powell films Ghostwriter in Providence.