Georgia, also known as the Peach State, has been the setting for numerous films that showcase its charm and diverse landscapes. From Atlanta-based dramas to Southern tales, here is a curated list of movies that take place in Georgia. This list includes films that have been shot in Georgia as well as those that are set within the state.
Key Takeaways:
- Georgia has a thriving film industry and has been a popular filming location for both major productions and independent filmmakers.
- Movies set in Georgia capture the state’s unique charm, cultural heritage, and diverse landscapes.
- Some popular Georgia-based films include “Forrest Gump,” “The Color Purple,” “Baby Driver,” “The Hunger Games” series, “The DUFF,” and “Get Low.”
- These movies highlight various aspects of Georgia, from its vibrant cityscape in Atlanta to its tranquil countryside.
- Georgia’s film industry continues to grow, attracting filmmakers from around the world with its generous tax incentives and rich storytelling opportunities.
Table of Contents
Forrest Gump (1994)
One of the most beloved films of all time, “Forrest Gump,” has a significant portion of its story set in Savannah, Georgia. The famous bench scene, where the main character shares his life story, takes place in Savannah’s Chippewa Square. This heartfelt film beautifully captures the essence of Georgia’s charm and southern hospitality.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 1994 |
| Directed by | Robert Zemeckis |
| Starring | Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise |
| Setting | Savannah, Georgia |
| Main Locations | Chippewa Square, Savannah |
| Genre | Drama, Romance, Comedy |
The Color Purple (1985)
Adapted from the novel by Alice Walker, The Color Purple is a powerful film set in rural Georgia in the early 20th century. The story follows the journey of Celie, a young African American woman, as she navigates through abuse, racism, and self-discovery. The film effectively portrays the landscape and culture of Georgia during that time period.
The Color Purple captures the essence of Georgia’s rural beauty. The lush green fields and sprawling landscapes serve as a backdrop for Celie’s emotional and transformative journey. The film beautifully depicts the struggles and resilience of the characters against the backdrop of the Georgia setting.
The Color Purple received critical acclaim and was nominated for numerous awards, including 11 Academy Awards. The performances by the cast, including Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey, were widely praised for their emotional depth and authenticity.
Main Cast:
- Whoopi Goldberg as Celie
- Danny Glover as Albert
- Adolph Caesar as Old Mister
- Margaret Avery as Shug Avery
- Oprah Winfrey as Sofia
| Award | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Academy Awards | Best Picture | Nominated |
| Academy Awards | Best Actress (Whoopi Goldberg) | Nominated |
| Academy Awards | Best Supporting Actress (Margaret Avery, Oprah Winfrey) | Nominated |
| Golden Globe Awards | Best Motion Picture – Drama | Nominated |
Baby Driver (2017)
“Baby Driver,” directed by Edgar Wright, is a fast-paced action film set in Atlanta, Georgia. The main character, Baby, is a skilled getaway driver who aids criminals in their heists. The film showcases Atlanta’s vibrant cityscape and features thrilling car chase sequences throughout.
Key Highlights of “Baby Driver”
- Directed by Edgar Wright
- Main character: Baby
- Genre: Action
- Setting: Atlanta, Georgia
- Highlights Atlanta’s vibrant cityscape
- Features thrilling car chase sequences
The Hunger Games Series (2012-2015)
The popular film series, The Hunger Games, is set in the fictional nation of Panem, which includes the Capitol and various districts. These films were primarily shot in Georgia, with locations such as Atlanta, Clayton County, and Henry County standing in for the diverse districts of Panem. The state’s diverse landscapes, including forests and open fields, provide a visually stunning backdrop for the dystopian saga.
Hunger Games Districts Comparison
| District | Industry | Georgian Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 – Luxury | Luxury goods | Atlanta |
| 2 – Masonry | Stone and construction | Clayton County |
| 3 – Technology | Electronics and technology | Atlanta |
| 4 – Fishing | Seafood | Henry County |
| 5 – Power | Energy and electricity | Atlanta |
The Hunger Games series captivated audiences worldwide with its powerful storyline and stunning visuals. Georgia’s diverse landscapes provided the perfect setting for the fictional nation of Panem, immersing viewers in the dystopian world of the Hunger Games.
The DUFF (2015)
“The DUFF” is a teen comedy set in a suburban town in Georgia, near Atlanta. The film follows the journey of a high school girl named Bianca, who discovers that she is labeled as the “Designated Ugly Fat Friend” among her peers. This coming-of-age story explores issues of self-acceptance and friendship amidst the backdrop of suburban Georgia.
Get Low (2009)
“Get Low” is a captivating drama set in rural Georgia during the 1930s. The film revolves around the intriguing story of Felix Bush, a reclusive old man who decides to host his own funeral party while he is still alive. The fascinating tale explores the depths of human emotions and the power of redemption.
Through its stunning portrayal of the Georgia countryside, “Get Low” beautifully captures the essence of the state’s small towns and tight-knit communities. The film immerses viewers in the character and charm of rural Georgia, unfolding against the backdrop of picturesque landscapes and heartfelt interactions.
With its compelling narrative and heartfelt performances, “Get Low” showcases the captivating beauty of Georgia, offering audiences a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality of the state’s rural communities.
Conclusion
Georgia, with its diverse landscapes and rich history, has become a favored destination for filmmakers, resulting in a flourishing film industry. The state offers generous tax incentives, attracting major productions and independent filmmakers alike. The movies set in Georgia mentioned above are just a glimpse of the vast library of films shot or set in the Peach State, showcasing its unique charm and cultural heritage.
With Atlanta as its bustling core, and the tranquil countryside as its serene backdrop, Georgia offers a captivating canvas for cinematic storytelling. From Southern tales to Atlanta-based dramas, the state’s filmography epitomizes the allure of the South, and its films reflect the beauty and character of Georgia.
As the Georgia film industry continues to thrive, more movies set in this gorgeous state will undoubtedly grace the silver screen. Whether you are a fan of Southern movies or eager to explore the Georgia cinema scene, these films will transport you to the heart and soul of the Peach State.
