Savannah on Screen: A Round-Up of Movies Filmed in the Hostess City

Hello there, movie buffs! Today, we're diving into the charming world of movies made in Savannah. This historic city, with its unique architecture and Southern charm, has been the backdrop for countless films and TV shows. So, grab your popcorn and let's explore the magic of Savannah on screen! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and movies made in savannah.

Savannah's Silver Screen Debut

Savannah's cinematic journey began in the early 20th century, but it was the 1970s and 1980s that saw a boom in movie production here.

In 1979, the city welcomed the crew of Midnight Express, a drama about an American student's harrowing experience in a Turkish prison. The film was a critical success, earning three Academy Awards and putting Savannah on the map as a filming location.

Forrest Gump, the iconic 1994 film based on the novel by Winston Groom, was another significant production that chose Savannah as its backdrop. The city's picturesque squares and historic architecture provided the perfect setting for Gump's life story. The film went on to win six Oscars, including Best Picture.

Savannah's Scenic Spots on Screen

River Street

No list of Savannah's filming locations would be complete without River Street. This bustling cobblestone street, lined with 18th-century warehouses and shops, has been featured in numerous films.

In Gone with the Wind (1939), the iconic scene where Scarlett O'Hara visits her plantation after the Civil War was filmed on River Street. More recently, Magic Mike (2012) and its sequel, Magic Mike XXL (2015), used River Street for several scenes, including the memorable stripping contest at a local bar.

Bonaventure Cemetery

For a touch of eerie elegance, filmmakers often turn to Bonaventure Cemetery. This historic cemetery, known for its beautiful sculptures and Spanish moss-draped oak trees, has been featured in several films.

The Garden of Good and Evil (1997), based on the true-crime book by John Berendt, was largely filmed in Savannah and features Bonaventure Cemetery prominently. The cemetery also made an appearance in Crawl (2019), a horror film about a young woman trapped in a flooding house with a pair of hungry alligators.

Forsyth Park

At the heart of Savannah lies Forsyth Park, a 30-acre oasis featuring a large fountain, lush gardens, and plenty of Spanish moss. It's no wonder this park is a popular filming location.

The Longest Yard (2005), a comedy starring Adam Sandler and Chris Rock, used Forsyth Park for several scenes. The park also made an appearance in The Last Song (2010), a drama starring Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth.

Savannah's Small Screen Moments

TV shows have also discovered the charm of Savannah. Here are a few notable examples:

The Vampire Diaries (2009-2017) used Savannah as a backdrop for several episodes, transforming the city into the fictional town of Mystic Falls. The show's cast and crew spent several months filming in Savannah, bringing a boost to the local economy.

Sleepy Hollow (2013-2017) was another TV series that called Savannah home. The city's historic buildings and eerie atmosphere provided the perfect setting for this supernatural drama.

Savannah's Film Festivals and Industry

With so many films and TV shows being produced here, it's no surprise that Savannah has become a hub for film enthusiasts. The city hosts several film festivals throughout the year, including:

Savannah Film Festival

Established in 1996, this annual event showcases the best in independent and international cinema. The festival includes film screenings, panel discussions, and networking events.

Savannah Stopover Music & Film Festival

This unique festival combines music and film, bringing together artists and filmmakers for a weekend of collaboration and creativity. The event features live music performances, film screenings, and workshops.

Conclusion: Savannah's Cinematic Future

As the film and TV industry continues to grow in Savannah, we can expect to see even more movies made in this enchanting city. With its rich history, unique architecture, and Southern hospitality, Savannah is the perfect backdrop for any story.

So, the next time you're watching a movie or TV show and you recognize those beautiful Savannah squares or the Spanish moss-draped trees, you'll know you're witnessing the magic of movies made in Savannah!

That's a wrap, folks! Until next time, keep your eyes peeled for Savannah on the silver screen.