When You Think of Georgia Films, These are Likely on Your Mind
Explore Georgia's settings for iconic films and television shows.
When you think of iconic films, it's likely that at least one was filmed in Georgia. These are the must-watch stories that have captured awards and hearts. We're sharing a few of our favorites from over the years.
Forrest Gump
A simple man from Alabama goes on to change history, meeting presidents and attending the March on Washington. "Forrest Gump," starring Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Sally Field and Gary Sinise, went on to win six Academy Awards. It’s perhaps most associated with the scenes filmed in Savannah, including the iconic park bench now located in the Savannah History Museum.
Visit the Georgia film locations from Forrest Gump
Fried Green Tomatoes
Based on the Fannie Flagg novel, "Fried Green Tomatoes" interweaves two stories of strong Southern women. Kathy Bates plays an unhappy housewife who befriends a nursing home resident, played by Jessica Tandy. She shares the story of Ruth and Idgie, played by Mary-Louise Parker and Mary Stuart Masterson, who run the Whistle Stop Cafe. Juliette was home to most of the filming, and it's here that you can visit the namesake cafe for its namesake dish.
Visit the Georgia film locations from Fried Green Tomatoes
Smokey and the Bandit
In one of Burt Reynolds' most beloved roles, Bandit and Cledus are two truck drivers who are dared to race to pick up a truck of beer in Texas. Along the way, Bandit meets Carrie, played by Sally Field, a hitchhiker who just left her fiance at the altar. The groom's father, the town sheriff, tries to capture the duo. Unicoi State Park, downtown Jonesboro, and Atlanta Motor Speedway were all used for filming.
My Cousin Vinny
Two "yutes" are arrested in rural Alabama for murder and call in their cousin Vinny to defend them. Joe Pesci, Ralph Macchio and Marisa Tomei star in the classic, which was filmed mostly in Monticello. Stop by the historic courthouse and the Sac-o-Suds, where the stolen can of tuna was taken.
Visit the Georgia film locations from My Cousin Vinny
Deliverance
Southeastern Expeditions
Certainly the most controversial film to hail from Georgia, "Deliverance" tells of a group of friends who go on a river rafting trip that turns sinister. It was based on a book by James Dickey. Burt Reynolds and Jon Voight star in the film, which was filmed on location in North Georgia, including Tallulah Gorge. Stuntmen from the film started Southeastern Expeditions, a river rafting outfitter that still operates today.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil
In another film based on a book, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" has had a lasting impact on Savannah. It tells a dramatized version of a real murder at the Mercer Williams House as well as the eccentric personalities that call the city home. Kevin Spacey and John Cusack star in the Clint Eastwood-directed film, which included scenes filmed in Bonaventure Cemetery.
Visit the Georgia film locations from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil