Iowa has served as the backdrop for numerous films, showcasing the charm and beauty of the Hawkeye State. From heartwarming dramas to thrilling mysteries, the cinematic portrayals of Iowa offer a diverse range of stories set in this captivating location.
Whether you’re looking for films set in Iowa, Iowa-based movies, or Iowa-themed movies, this curated list will introduce you to some compelling cinematic experiences that capture the essence of the state.
Key Takeaways:
- There are several notable movies set in Iowa that showcase the state’s unique charm and beauty.
- Genres like drama, romance, comedy, and thrillers all have representation in the Iowa-based films.
- Movies like “Field of Dreams,” “The Bridges of Madison County,” and “The Music Man” have become iconic cinematic portrayals of Iowa.
- Iowa offers a diverse range of settings, from cornfields and covered bridges to small towns and lake towns.
- These films explore various themes, including baseball, romance, small-town charm, and personal growth.
Table of Contents
Field of Dreams (1989)
“Field of Dreams” is a beloved film set in Iowa. Starring Kevin Costner, it tells the story of a farmer who hears a voice telling him to build a baseball field in his cornfield. The film explores themes of baseball, family, and the power of chasing your dreams. It also features appearances by historical baseball figures like Shoeless Joe Jackson. “Field of Dreams” is a must-watch for fans of baseball movies and those who appreciate stories about father-son relationships.
| Title | Year | Main Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Field of Dreams | 1989 | Kevin Costner |
Field of Dreams is a heartwarming film that transports viewers to the picturesque Iowa cornfields. It showcases the beauty of the state while delving into the world of baseball and the dreams that drive us. With Kevin Costner’s captivating performance, this movie has become an iconic entry in the genre of baseball films and a testament to the enduring power of father-son relationships.
The Bridges of Madison County (1995)
“The Bridges of Madison County” is a romantic drama set in Iowa. Starring Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood, it tells the story of a married woman who falls in love with a National Geographic photographer visiting her small town. The film captures the beauty of Iowa’s iconic covered bridges and explores themes of forbidden love and the choices we make in life.
Key Details
| Title | The Bridges of Madison County |
|---|---|
| Year | 1995 |
| Genre | Romantic Drama |
| Director | Clint Eastwood |
| Cast | Meryl Streep, Clint Eastwood |
| Setting | Iowa |
Plot
In “The Bridges of Madison County,” Francesca Johnson (Meryl Streep) is a married woman living in rural Iowa in the 1960s. Her life takes an unexpected turn when Robert Kincaid (Clint Eastwood), a National Geographic photographer, arrives in town to capture the beauty of Iowa’s covered bridges. As Francesca guides him around the picturesque countryside, a passionate and forbidden love affair unfolds.
Iconic Covered Bridges
Iowa is known for its iconic covered bridges, and these architectural marvels play a significant role in the film. The Bridges of Madison County showcases the enchanting beauty of these structures, which serve as symbolic landmarks where Francesca and Robert’s love grows amidst the backdrop of Iowa’s idyllic countryside.
Forbidden Love and Choices
At its core, “The Bridges of Madison County” explores the theme of forbidden love. Francesca grapples with the difficult choice between staying faithful to her husband and following her heart’s desire. The film raises profound questions about the choices we make in life and the lasting impact they can have on our happiness and fulfillment.
Cedar Rapids (2011)
“Cedar Rapids” is a hilarious comedy film set in the charming city of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Released in 2011, the movie follows the unforgettable journey of Tim Lippe, played by the talented Ed Helms. Tim, a naive insurance agent, finds himself attending an annual insurance convention in Cedar Rapids.
Throughout the film, Tim stumbles upon a group of convention veterans, each with their own unique quirks. This ensemble cast includes the brilliant John C. Reilly, the talented Anne Heche, and the charismatic Isiah Whitlock Jr. Together, they lead Tim on a wild adventure filled with uproarious laughter and unexpected challenges.
“Cedar Rapids” showcases not only the humor and absurdity of insurance conventions but also the Midwestern charm of the city itself. From its friendly residents to its picturesque landscapes, Cedar Rapids embodies the heart and soul of the Midwest. The film captures the essence of this charming city, making it a standout destination for comedy movie enthusiasts.
The Cast of “Cedar Rapids”
One of the highlights of “Cedar Rapids” is its talented cast:
- Ed Helms as Tim Lippe
- John C. Reilly as Dean Ziegler
- Anne Heche as Joan Ostrowski-Fox
- Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Ronald Wilkes
These skilled actors bring their comedic prowess to the film, creating unforgettable characters that add to the charm and humor of “Cedar Rapids.”
The Music Man (1962)
“The Music Man” is a classic musical set in the fictional town of River City, Iowa. It stars Robert Preston as Harold Hill, a con man who poses as a boys’ band leader to scam the townspeople. Shirley Jones plays Marian, the skeptical librarian who ultimately falls for Harold’s charm.
The film showcases the small-town charm of Iowa, with its picturesque landscapes and friendly community. The vibrant musical numbers, such as “76 Trombones,” add an enchanting and catchy element to the story.
Set in the early 1900s, “The Music Man” captures the spirit of a bygone era and celebrates the power of music in bringing people together. The film’s timeless appeal has made it a beloved classic in the genre of musicals set in Iowa.
Key Cast:
- Robert Preston as Harold Hill
- Shirley Jones as Marian
- Buddy Hackett as Marcellus Washburn
- Hermione Gingold as Mrs. Shinn
| Release Year | Director | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| 1962 | Morton DaCosta | Musical, Romance, Comedy |
Sleeping with the Enemy (1991)
“Sleeping with the Enemy” is a gripping domestic thriller set in a fictional Iowa lake town. Starring Julia Roberts, the film follows her character, Laura, as she fakes her own death in an attempt to escape her abusive husband. As she tries to rebuild her life, her husband becomes suspicious and begins to search for her. The film explores themes of survival and the lengths one will go to escape a dangerous situation.
Main Themes of “Sleeping with the Enemy”
- Domestic Thriller – “Sleeping with the Enemy” falls into the genre of domestic thriller, which typically involves suspenseful and intense stories of individuals trapped in abusive relationships.
- Escape from an Abusive Relationship – The film centers around Laura’s desperate attempt to break free from her violent and controlling husband, showcasing the strength and determination it takes to leave such a situation.
- Iowa Lake Town Setting – The fictional Iowa lake town provides a picturesque backdrop for the story, highlighting the idyllic yet isolating environment in which Laura finds herself trapped.
Julia Roberts as Laura
Julia Roberts delivers a powerful performance as Laura, a woman fighting for her freedom and sanity. Her portrayal showcases the emotional complexity and resilience of a survivor, making her a relatable and compelling protagonist.
Throughout the film, Roberts effectively conveys the fear, strength, and determination of her character, drawing viewers into Laura’s harrowing journey and evoking a range of emotions.
A Thrilling Escape Story
The plot of “Sleeping with the Enemy” keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as Laura meticulously plans her escape, cunningly deceiving her husband in the process. The suspense builds as Laura’s husband becomes increasingly suspicious, creating tension and a sense of urgency to her getaway.
The film’s exploration of the lengths one will go to in order to escape a dangerous situation resonates with audiences, highlighting the importance of freedom, self-preservation, and the pursuit of a better life.
Conclusion
Iowa is a state that has captivated filmmakers and audiences alike with its picturesque landscapes and captivating stories. From the heartwarming dramas like “Field of Dreams” and “The Bridges of Madison County” to the side-splitting comedy “Cedar Rapids,” Iowa has proven to be a versatile backdrop for a variety of genres. These movies not only showcase the unique charm and beauty of the Hawkeye State but also provide viewers with stories that resonate long after the credits roll.
Whether you’re a fan of baseball movies, romantic dramas, or captivating thrillers, the films set in Iowa offer something for everyone to enjoy. In “Field of Dreams,” viewers can immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Iowa cornfields and experience the power of chasing your dreams. “The Bridges of Madison County” takes us on a journey of forbidden love against the backdrop of Iowa’s iconic covered bridges. And in “Cedar Rapids,” the film’s comedic portrayal of a small-town insurance convention showcases the irresistible Midwestern charm of Cedar Rapids.
The movies set in Iowa not only entertain but also provide a deeper exploration of themes such as family, love, and the pursuit of happiness. Each film offers a unique perspective on life in Iowa, capturing the essence of the state’s rich culture, history, and values. So, whether you’re a native Iowan or just curious about this beautiful state, be sure to add these Iowa-based movies to your watchlist and experience the magic of Iowa on screen.
