Hey there, TV lovers! If you’ve been hooked on Apple TV+’s latest gem, The Studio, you’re not alone. This satirical comedy has immersed us in the chaos of Hollywood, and I’m thoroughly enjoying every moment. At TV Acute, we’re diving into one of the show’s juiciest bits from episode three, “The Note”—a crime thriller called Alphabet City. Directed by the legendary Ron Howard and starring Anthony Mackie and Dave Franco, this movie has sparked some serious buzz. But here’s the big question: Is Alphabet City a real film, or just a clever invention? Let’s break it down together in a way that’s fun, simple, and packed with value—perfect for anyone searching for answers!
What’s The Studio All About?
First off, if you haven’t caught The Studio yet, you’re missing out. This Apple TV+ series, which dropped its first two episodes on March 26, 2025, follows Matt Remick (played by the hilarious Seth Rogen), the new head of Continental Studios. Matt faces a challenging journey as he balances his creative aspirations with the harsh realities of the movie industry. Alongside him is a stellar cast—Catherine O’Hara as his mentor Patty Leigh, Ike Barinholtz as his buddy Sal, and Chase Sui Wonders as his assistant Quinn. Together, they tackle egos, corporate demands, and the madness of filmmaking. It’s sharp, funny, and totally binge-worthy—no wonder critics are calling it one of 2025’s top comedies!
Now, let’s zoom into episode three, where Alphabet City steals the spotlight. Matt and his crew sit down to watch this new crime flick, expecting a hit. Instead, they are left scratching their heads by a long, over-the-top mess. So, what’s the deal with this movie? Is it something Ron Howard actually made, or just a plot twist for the show?
Alphabet City: Fiction with a Nod to Reality
Alphabet City is 100% made up for The Studio. Yep, it’s a fictional project cooked up by the show’s creators—Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, Frida Perez, Peter Huyck, and Alex Gregory. However, the concept isn’t entirely unexpected. The name Alphabet City matches a real 1984 crime thriller directed by Amos Poe. That film’s got a gritty vibe, a dark story, and a New York setting—sounds familiar, right? Still, that’s where the similarities stop. The Alphabet City in The Studio, starring Anthony Mackie and Dave Franco, is a unique storyline that bears a striking resemblance to Michael Mann’s Collateral.
In Collateral, Jamie Foxx plays a cab driver caught up in a wild night with a hitman (Tom Cruise). Swap the cab for some neo-noir flair, and you’ve got vibes that echo The Studio’s version of Alphabet City. There’s even a hint of Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver in there, with its brooding, urban edge. But the show takes it further with a quirky third act—a “motel sequence” tied to Ron Howard’s “dead cousin.” In real life, Howard was distantly related to Don Knotts, who passed away in 2005. Did that inspire this plot point? Probably not, but The Studio loves exaggerating real-life tidbits for laughs!
A Fictional Film with a Real Feel
What makes Alphabet City so fun is how believable it feels. The show blends real Hollywood names (like Ron Howard) with fake projects, keeping us guessing. Set in New York’s Alphabet City—a historic East Village neighborhood—the movie’s got a retro, gritty look that screams classic crime thriller. Matt’s team is wowed at first by its style and energy. But as it drags on with weird, artsy twists, they’re left bored and confused. Sound like any overhyped films you’ve seen? That’s the genius of The Studio—it pokes fun at the industry while feeling totally relatable.
In the episode, Matt’s too nice (or too scared) to tell Howard the truth during a marketing meeting. Cue the awkward laughs and delays—it’s a perfect snapshot of Hollywood’s chaos. Even though Alphabet City isn’t real, it drives the episode’s drama and gives us a hilarious peek at how studios handle a flop.
Why The Studio Hooks Us
This show isn’t just about fake movies—it’s a love letter to filmmaking, wrapped in satire. With 10 episodes rolling out weekly until May 21, 2025, The Studio keeps us hooked with its all-star cast and insider humor. Cameos from big names add extra spice, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves TV or movies. At TV Acute, we are captivated by its ability to blend humor with genuine industry realities, such as the conflict between “talent” and “suits” or the struggle between artistic expression and financial gain.
So, no, Alphabet City isn’t a real Ron Howard crime movie. It’s a clever fake that borrows just enough from reality to feel legit. Whether you’re a fan of thrillers or just here for the comedy, this subplot adds a layer of fun to an already awesome series. Give The Studio a try the next time you’re scrolling through Apple TV+—you won’t regret it!
Drop your thoughts below—I’d love to chat more about this show! Stick around for more TV goodies, and let’s keep the fun going!
Read More: Is Patty Leigh from The Studio a Real Producer? Let’s Unpack the Truth!
