West Virginia, known for its scenic beauty and rich history, has served as a backdrop for countless movies over the years. With its diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to rugged mountains, it’s no wonder that filmmakers have flocked to this state in search of picturesque locations. From classics like “October Sky” to modern hits such as “The Mothman Prophecies,” West Virginia has been home to films of all genres.
Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic films that were shot entirely or partially in West Virginia.
1) October Sky (1999):
Based on Homer Hickam’s memoir “Rocket Boys,” this movie tells the inspiring story of how four high school boys from Coalwood, West Virginia built their own rocket with dreams of escaping their humble coal-mining town life. Directed by Joe Johnston and starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Chris Cooper among others, “October Sky” was primarily shot in Knoxville, Tennessee but many key scenes were filmed in Coalwood, Beckley & Northfork in WV.
2) Matewan (1987):
Chris Cooper stars alongside James Earl Jones in John Sayles’ critically acclaimed film based on the 1920s mining conflicts between miners and coal companies in Mingo County. Filmed almost entirely around Matewan located along Tug Fork river on border near KY/WV/VA states line which finds itself just inside southwestern corner of the Mountain State made it easy for director Sayles develop various visuals he wanted hence creating an epic masterpiece showcasing turbulent times braving harsh conditions remain a testament more than three decades later.
3) Super 8 (2011):
Although set fictional Lillian Town Ohio where amateur filmmaker Charles Kaznyk and classmate Jack Lamb witness train derailment leading beyond what can be explained without observation when military arrive shortly thereafter however due limited shooting period plus budgets thus actors mostly inexperienced youngsters lengthy parts final product examined Lens Cap Productions also took advantage filming opportunities around Weirton, WV.
4) The Mothman Prophecies (2002):
Richard Gere stars in this eerie thriller based on John A. Keel’s book about strange happenings that occurred in Point Pleasant, West Virginia during the late 1960s surrounding eyewitness reports of a “moth-like” creature and warning presences prior to bridge collapse; indeed creating an uneasy atmosphere within locals. Being filmed mostly in Pennsylvania (due availability soundstages & easier post-production work), director Mark Pellington spend few days capturing night scenes having notable locations including the historic Goldie Gunlock Hotel which stood abandoned for years before you can catch sight of its rubble today.
5) American Fable (2016):
This independent thriller depicts the unique bond between young girl dreams while trying decipher what will save troubled family farm continue living comfortably until learning someone sinister may be lurking about when she discovers man trapped inside silo believed dead however hasn’t decomposed despite being exposed nature elements for months While Illinois doubled our Appalachian Mountains countryside, flick directed by Anne Hamilton shot key exterior scenes near Alpena Cave National Wildlife Refuge eastern panhandle sustaining rural effect which sums up underlying themes backdrop story focuses found.
Other notable mentions include:
• Wrong Turn (2003)
• Gods and Generals (2003)
• Sweet Dreams (1985)
• Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri(2017)
In conclusion, from inspiring stories that leave us motivated and uplifted to spine-tingling thrillers that leave us shuddering with fear – filmmakers have used West Virginia as their canvas bringing some everlasting classics produced here over past decades. Whether it’s breathtaking vistas or charming small towns rich with history like Harpers Ferry – The Mountain State remains unmatched destination amongst filmmakers where audience absolutely love recognizing surroundings providing tourism industry significant boost whenever popular movies bring attention certain region encouraging visitors actually visit real life places depicted films transforming reel life into real life once the credits roll.
West Virginia, known for its scenic beauty and rich history, has served as a backdrop for countless movies over the years. With its diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to rugged mountains, it’s no wonder that filmmakers have flocked to this state in search of picturesque locations.
From classics like “October Sky” to modern hits such as “The Mothman Prophecies,” West Virginia has been home to films of all genres. Its unique geography and charm provide much-needed fuel for any filmmaker seeking inspiration or looking for a new challenge.
Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic films that were shot entirely or partially in West Virginia.
1) October Sky (1999):
Based on Homer Hickam’s memoir “Rocket Boys,” this movie tells the inspiring story of how four high school boys from Coalwood, West Virginia built their own rocket with dreams of escaping their humble coal-mining town life. Directed by Joe Johnston and starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Chris Cooper among others, “October Sky” was primarily shot in Knoxville, Tennessee but many key scenes were filmed in Coalwood, Beckley & Northfork in WV.
2) Matewan (1987):
Chris Cooper stars alongside James Earl Jones in John Sayles’ critically acclaimed film based on the 1920s mining conflicts between miners and coal companies in Mingo County. Filmed almost entirely around Matewan located along Tug Fork river on border near KY/WV/VA states line which finds itself just inside southwestern corner of the Mountain State made it easy for director Sayles develop various visuals he wanted hence creating an epic masterpiece showcasing turbulent times braving harsh conditions remain a testament more than three decades later.
3) Super 8 (2011):
Although set fictional Lillian Town Ohio where amateur filmmaker Charles Kaznyk and classmate Jack Lamb witness train derailment leading beyond what can be explained without observation when military arrive shortly thereafter however due limited shooting period plus budgets thus actors mostly inexperienced youngsters lengthy parts final product examined Lens Cap Productions also took advantage filming opportunities around Weirton, WV.
4) The Mothman Prophecies (2002):
Richard Gere stars in this eerie thriller based on John A. Keel’s book about strange happenings that occurred in Point Pleasant, West Virginia during the late 1960s surrounding eyewitness reports of a “moth-like” creature and warning presences prior to bridge collapse; indeed creating an uneasy atmosphere within locals. Being filmed mostly in Pennsylvania (due availability soundstages & easier post-production work), director Mark Pellington spend few days capturing night scenes having notable locations including the historic Goldie Gunlock Hotel which stood abandoned for years before you can catch sight of its rubble today.
5) American Fable (2016):
This independent thriller depicts the unique bond between young girl dreams while trying decipher what will save troubled family farm continue living comfortably until learning someone sinister may be lurking about when she discovers man trapped inside silo believed dead however hasn’t decomposed despite being exposed nature elements for months While Illinois doubled our Appalachian Mountains countryside, flick directed by Anne Hamilton shot key exterior scenes near Alpena Cave National Wildlife Refuge eastern panhandle sustaining rural effect which sums up underlying themes backdrop story focuses found.
Other notable mentions include:
• Wrong Turn (2003)
• Gods and Generals (2003)
• Sweet Dreams (1985)
• Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri(2017)
In conclusion, from inspiring stories that leave us motivated and uplifted to spine-tingling thrillers that leave us shuddering with fear – filmmakers have used West Virginia as their canvas bringing some everlasting classics produced here over past decades.
Whether it’s breathtaking vistas or charming small towns rich with history like Harpers Ferry – The Mountain State remains unmatched destination amongst filmmakers where audience absolutely love recognizing surroundings providing tourism industry significant boost whenever popular movies bring attention certain region encouraging visitors actually visit real life places depicted films transforming reel life into real life once the credits roll.