Capital Region Throwback: When “Salt” Turned Albany Into a Movie Set

That Time When Angelina Rolled Into Town....

Before Hollywood blockbusters were filmed on green screens and sound stages, Albany once transformed into a full-blown action movie set. Back in May 2009, the Capital Region got a pretty serious dose of star power when Angelina Jolie rolled into town to film scenes for the spy thriller Salt.

For a few days, sections of 787, downtown Albany, and surrounding streets were shut down as crews staged an intense high-speed chase that would later become one of the film’s most memorable sequences.

Locals Thought it was Pretty Surreal

For locals, it was surreal. One minute you’re commuting past the Egg and the Corning Tower… the next, you’re watching one of the biggest movie stars in the world sprint, jump, and film stunt sequences just blocks from home.

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During the shoot, a local photographer happened to be in the right place at the right time and captured a series of candid, behind-the-scenes photos of Jolie between takes. These rare shots show a different side of the production — not just the explosive action, but also some of the quieter moments.

Check Out the Images Below

From crew setups to Jolie casually walking between scenes, the photos offer a unique glimpse at a time when the Capital Region briefly became the center of the movie universe.

Check out the scene we're referring to here, and see the behind-the-scenes photos from Angelina Jolie’s time filming Salt in Albany below.