From last year’s, “One Battle After Another,” filmed downtown, to an upcoming TV series, “Rooster,” Stockton has been the location for a number of productions.

Downtown Stockton drew attention two years ago when scenes from the film, “One Battle After Another,” were filmed in the area. Streets were closed on Main Street and N San Joaquin Street, police vehicles were used as props, and film crews worked throughout downtown, attracting crowds hoping to catch a glimpse of the production.

The movie follows Bob Ferguson (Leonardo DiCaprio), a former revolutionary living off the grid with his daughter Willa (Chase Infiniti). When an old enemy resurfaces and Willa goes missing, Bob is forced to confront his past and his role as a father. This storyline adds emotional depth to the film by focusing on family, responsibility, and personal growth. The conflict between Bob and his past challenges makes the movie more than just an action film, helping audiences connect to the characters on a deeper level.

The film’s critical success helped bring even more attention to Stockton, especially because several important scenes were filmed here. As the movie gained popularity, viewers also became interested in the real life locations used during filming. Seeing buildings in Stockton caught the eye of producers, making them want to film in those locations.

The film is considered by many the best movie of 2025, getting 9 nominations and 4 awards in the Golden Globe Awards and 13 nominations in the Academy Awards, which will take place in March. 

Several scenes were filmed at 311 Main Street, as well as inside the historic Bank of Stockton. According to individuals familiar with the production, Stockton was used for its mix of historic architecture and modern downtown locations. Tony Yadon, a worker from the area, shared to Facebook about seeing the production from their office window. “They’re filming a movie at the intersection of Main and San Joaquin Streets in Downtown Stockton this morning. Word is that Leonardo DiCaprio is here. I have a front-row seat from my office window.”

The production quickly drew public interest. Other residents reported seeing staged arrest scenes near the Bob Hope Theatre, actors filming near the San Joaquin County Courthouse, and multiple Stockton Police Department vehicles were used during filming. Photos and videos spread across social media, temporarily turning downtown Stockton into a local attraction.

Film crews also worked in Sacramento and other parts of California, but many locals were surprised to learn that Stockton played such a major role.

When teachers and students learned that parts of the movie were filmed in Stockton, many were surprised, as the city is not often recognized for its scenery or used as a filming location.

When people think of Stockton, the city is often associated with negative stereotypes rather than its history, architecture, or visual appeal.

However, the decision to film scenes of a major movie in Stockton offered a different perspective, allowing people to see the city in a more positive light and recognize its potential as a filming location. 

“A lot of people don’t even realize how much history and character our city has,” said junior Mariah Gonzales. According to her, people can focus too much on the city’s reputation. “Nine times out of ten, people say Stockton isn’t a good place, but if you actually take the time to learn about it, it’s really not that bad.”

History teacher James Buntin is familiar with how movies are made, and said Stockton is most likely passed over because other places are less expensive. “Many productions choose places like Canada because of lower costs and tax incentives.”

Ethnic studies teacher Joy Riablubin Trejo added that Stockton’s history and architecture are often overlooked unless people take the time to learn about it. She also pointed out that negative stereotypes about the city can influence outsiders’ opinions and decisions.

Despite this, the filming of “One Battle After Another” brought a sense of pride to many residents. Seeing a major production choose Stockton showed that the city has more to offer than people assume. For locals, the movie wasn’t just about big-name actors, it was about Stockton finally getting a moment in the spotlight.

There were also more popular movies such as “Indiana Jones,” “All the Kings Men,” and “Fat City.” Recently, they filmed at UOP for an upcoming comedy HBO series starring Steve Carell called “Rooster,” said to be released next month.

Stream “One Battle After Another” at HBO MAX and Apple TV. Stream “The Rooster” on March 2026 at HBO MAX.