Savannah's Silver Screen: A Roundup of Movies Set in Georgia's Coastal Gem
Hello there, movie buffs! Today, we're diving into the enchanting world of cinema, focusing on those flicks that have chosen the captivating city of Savannah, Georgia, as their backdrop. So, grab your popcorn and let's explore the movies set in Savannah, Georgia that have left their mark on the city and our hearts. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and movies set in savannah georgia.
Why Savannah?
Savannah's unique charm, with its Spanish moss-draped oak trees, historic architecture, and sultry Southern atmosphere, has made it an irresistible location for filmmakers. The city's rich history and diverse neighborhoods provide a versatile canvas for storytelling, making it the perfect setting for dramas, thrillers, and even comedies. So, let's roll the cameras and delve into the best movies set in Savannah, Georgia.
Forest Gump (1994)
We couldn't start this list without mentioning the movie that put Savannah firmly on the cinematic map. Forest Gump, based on the novel by Winston Groom, tells the life story of the titular character, played by Tom Hanks, who witnesses and unwittingly influences several defining historical events in the 20th century United States. The film's opening scene, featuring a young Forest sitting on a bench at the Savannah Bus Terminal, is one of the most iconic Savannah movie moments.
!Forest Gump Savannah Bus Terminal
The movie was filmed extensively in Savannah, with other notable locations including Chippewa Square (where the famous bench scene was shot, although the actual bench is now in the Savannah History Museum), the Savannah Theater, and the historic district's picturesque squares.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (1997)
Based on John Berendt's best-selling novel, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is a dark and captivating tale that weaves together murder, scandal, and Southern Gothic charm. The story follows the trial of Jim Williams, a prominent Savannah socialite accused of killing a young man in his home. The film boasts an impressive cast, including Kevin Spacey, John Cusack, and Clint Eastwood.
!Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil
Savannah's historic architecture and lush gardens provide the perfect backdrop for this atmospheric thriller. Some of the movie's most memorable scenes were shot at the Mercer House, the Owens-Thomas House, and the beautiful Bonaventure Cemetery, which serves as a haunting and poetic setting for the film's climax.
The Last Song (2010)
This romantic drama, based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, tells the story of a rebellious teenage girl, Ronnie Miller (Miley Cyrus), who is sent to live with her father (Greg Kinnear) in a small coastal town for the summer. As she reconnects with her father and falls in love with a local boy (Liam Hemsworth), Ronnie begins to find her way back to her family and her passion for music.
While the movie is set in the fictional town of Tybee Island, much of the filming took place in Savannah and its surrounding areas. The historic district's charming streets and squares, as well as the picturesque Tybee Island beaches, provide the perfect setting for this heartwarming tale of love and redemption.
The Choice (2016)
Another Nicholas Sparks adaptation, The Choice follows the love story of Travis Shaw (Benjamin Walker) and Gabby Holland (Teresa Palmer), two neighbors who find themselves drawn to each other despite their initial reservations. As their relationship deepens, they must face the challenges and choices that life throws their way.
The movie was primarily filmed in Savannah, with the historic district's picturesque squares and tree-lined streets serving as the perfect backdrop for this romantic drama. The film also features the charming Wormsloe Historic Site, a colonial-era estate that offers a glimpse into Savannah's rich history.
Hidden Figures (2016)
While not entirely set in Savannah, this inspiring biographical drama deserves a mention for its impact on the city and its residents. Hidden Figures tells the true story of three brilliant African-American women - Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer), and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe) - who played pivotal roles in NASA's early space missions during the 1960s.
The film's climax features a crucial scene shot at the Chatham County Courthouse in downtown Savannah, which served as the backdrop for a tense and emotional confrontation between Katherine Johnson and a racist supervisor. The movie's release sparked widespread interest in Savannah's civil rights history and inspired a new generation of residents and visitors to explore the city's rich cultural heritage.
Savannah's Silver Screen Legacy
As you can see, Savannah has played host to a diverse range of films, from heartwarming dramas to atmospheric thrillers. The city's unique charm and rich history have made it an irresistible location for filmmakers, and its cinematic legacy continues to grow with each passing year.
So, the next time you find yourself strolling through the historic district or exploring the city's many charming neighborhoods, take a moment to appreciate the silver screen magic that has been woven into Savannah's tapestry. And who knows? You might just stumble upon a hidden gem of a location that has played a starring role in one of these unforgettable movies set in Savannah, Georgia.
Happy watching, movie lovers! Until next time, keep your eyes peeled for the silver screen's next Savannah sensation.