From the bustling streets of New York to the vibrant alleys of Paris, big cities often serve as the backdrop for stories of ambition, passion, and the pursuit of dreams. These urban landscapes are more than just settings; they become characters in their own right, shaping the journeys of the protagonists who walk their streets. Whether it’s the relentless grind to make it in the big city or the exhilarating thrill of chasing a passion, these films and shows capture the essence of dreaming big in a concrete jungle. Here are ten Netflix gems, each set in a city that fuels the ambitions and aspirations of its lead characters.
1. “La La Land” (2016)
Set in the sprawling city of Los Angeles, “La La Land” tells the story of two aspiring artists—Mia, an actress, and Sebastian, a jazz musician—who navigate their dreams of success in the City of Angels. The film beautifully captures the highs and lows of pursuing one’s passion in a city where dreams are made or broken.
2. “The Pursuit of Happyness” (2006)
This inspiring film set in San Francisco follows the true story of Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who overcomes homelessness and despair to achieve his dreams. The relentless energy of the city mirrors Chris’s unwavering determination to provide a better life for his son.
3. “Emily in Paris” (2020-Present)
Set against the iconic backdrop of Paris, this series follows Emily, a young marketing executive, as she navigates her career and personal life in the City of Lights. The show captures the excitement and challenges of chasing big dreams in a city full of opportunities and cultural clashes.
4. “Marriage Story” (2019)
Set in New York City, “Marriage Story” is a powerful exploration of love, ambition, and the complexities of relationships. The film follows a couple going through a difficult divorce while trying to maintain their individual dreams and aspirations in the fast-paced world of NYC.
5. “GLOW” (2017-2019)
Set in Los Angeles during the 1980s, “GLOW” follows a group of women who dream of becoming stars through a women’s wrestling show. The series is a vibrant portrayal of their struggles, camaraderie, and the challenges of making it big in a competitive industry.
6. “In the Heights” (2021)
Set in the lively neighborhood of Washington Heights in New York City, “In the Heights” tells the story of a close-knit community and their dreams of a better life. The film is a celebration of culture, identity, and the power of dreams in the heart of the big city.
7. “Unorthodox” (2020)
Set in Berlin, “Unorthodox” follows the journey of Esty, a young woman who escapes an arranged marriage and a strict religious community in Brooklyn to pursue her dreams of freedom and self-discovery. The series highlights the challenges and opportunities of starting anew in a foreign city.
8. “Master of None” (2015-Present)
Set in New York City, “Master of None” follows Dev, a 30-something actor navigating the complexities of career, love, and friendship in the city that never sleeps. The show is a witty and relatable exploration of the millennial pursuit of dreams in the modern urban landscape.
9. “Always Be My Maybe” (2019)
Set in San Francisco, this romantic comedy tells the story of two childhood friends who reconnect as adults, each pursuing their dreams in the big city. The film captures the charm and challenges of balancing love, career, and ambition in a bustling urban environment.
10. “Sex Education” (2019-Present)
Set in a fictional town in the UK but with a distinctly urban vibe, “Sex Education” follows Otis, a socially awkward teenager, as he navigates his high school years while running an underground sex therapy clinic. The series is a quirky and heartfelt exploration of dreams, identity, and self-acceptance in a city-like setting.
