Mystic, Connecticut On the Big Screen: Remembering 1997’s ‘Amistad’

Connecticut has a long and distinguished history with American cinema. When it comes to the silver screen, the Nutmeg State has proven to be a go-to backdrop for filmmakers. From charming small towns to historic waterfronts, it offers the perfect setting for a wide range of stories—including 1997’s Amistad.

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Did you know that one of the greatest directors of all time brought a Hollywood production to Mystic and Groton, Connecticut?

It’s true—Steven Spielberg’s Amistad features key scenes filmed right here in southeastern Connecticut. While the story takes place largely in New Haven, Mystic Seaport and nearby Groton provided the perfect historic waterfront setting for parts of the film.

What Is Amistad About?

According to IMDB, Amistad (1997) is a historical drama directed by Steven Spielberg, based on the true story of a slave revolt aboard the Spanish ship La Amistad in 1839. After the ship was captured near Long Island, the African captives were brought to Connecticut, where a complicated legal battle unfolded. The film stars Djimon Hounsou, Matthew McConaughey, Morgan Freeman, and Anthony Hopkins.

Spielberg Really Filmed in Mystic?

Yes—and Groton, too. According to Movie-Locations.com, Spielberg and his team used Mystic Seaport for scenes set in New Haven, including waterfront shots. Groton Long Point was also used for additional outdoor footage. In fact, Mystic Seaport played such a key role that a replica of the Amistad schooner was later built there to help teach maritime history. The Hartford Courant captured the excitement during filming, noting that crowds gathered at Mystic Seaport just to catch a glimpse of Spielberg and Matthew McConaughey on set. According to one 1997 article, it was McConaughey’s first day filming at the museum—and fans were already shouting his name before cameras even rolled.

Why Not Film It All in Connecticut?

While Connecticut played an important part, most of the filming actually happened elsewhere. Newport, Rhode Island was transformed to look like a 1840s Connecticut town, and some scenes were filmed in Los Angeles and Puerto Rico. The courtroom scenes? They were filmed at Sonalyst Studios in Waterford, Connecticut—just a short drive from Mystic.

Other Fun Facts About Amistad

• The film was nominated for four Academy Awards.
• Spielberg made Amistad between The Lost World: Jurassic Park and Saving Private Ryan.
• Mystic Seaport has continued to be a popular filming location thanks to its preserved 19th-century charm.

I get that there are always reasons why movies say, “Hey, this is Rhode Island,” when they’re actually filming in Connecticut—and vice versa. But it drives me nuts. Just figure it out, man! No place is going to look more like Connecticut than Connecticut. Makes sense? (He said, in his best John Taffer voice, like he’s trying to rescue a failing bar—or a doomed marriage.)