What Movies Were Filmed in Oregon? A Comprehensive Guide
Hey there, movie buffs! Today, we're going on a cinematic journey to explore the beautiful state of Oregon and discover some of the amazing films that were shot there. So, grab your popcorn and let's dive right in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and what movies were filmed in oregon.
Why Oregon, You Ask?
Oregon, with its diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to dramatic coastlines and otherworldly deserts, has been a dream location for filmmakers. The state's film-friendly policies, combined with its stunning backdrops, have made it a popular choice for movie productions. Now, let's take a look at some of the notable films that were filmed in Oregon.
The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1 (2011)
Kicking off our list is the fourth installment in the Twilight saga, which brought a piece of Forks, Washington, to Oregon. The town of St. Helens stood in for the rainy, logging town of Forks. The grand Pacific University in Forest Grove also made an appearance as the exterior of the high school in the movie. Who knew that a simple drive through these towns could lead to a vampire love story?
The Shining (1980)
Stanley Kubrick's classic horror film, The Shining, was partially filmed at the Timberline Lodge in Oregon. The exterior shots of the eerie Overlook Hotel were captured at this beautiful ski lodge located in the Mount Hood National Forest. The lodge's iconic stone fireplace and grand lobby were featured prominently in the film. Interestingly, the interior scenes were filmed at Elstree Studios in England, showcasing the power of set design and location scouting in cinema.
Stand by Me (1986)
This coming-of-age drama, based on Stephen King's novella, was largely filmed in Brownsville, Oregon. The small town stood in for the fictional Castle Rock, Maine, in the 1950s. The iconic train scene was filmed on the historic Siskiyou Railroad bridge in southern Oregon. The movie's nostalgic atmosphere and the town's period-accurate architecture made Brownsville the perfect location for this heartwarming tale of friendship and loss.
The Hunt for Red October (1990)
This Cold War thriller, based on Tom Clancy's novel, was partially filmed in Oregon. The USS Dallas, a Los Angeles-class submarine, was used for the film's underwater scenes. The submarine was docked at the Portland Naval Shipyard during production. The film also features some stunning aerial shots of the Oregon coast, with the rugged cliffs and rocky shorelines providing a dramatic backdrop for the high-stakes underwater drama.
The Post (2017)
Steven Spielberg's political thriller, The Post, was partially filmed in Oregon. The historic Pittock Mansion in Portland served as the exterior for the Washington Post building in the 1970s. The grand estate's elegant architecture and expansive grounds provided the perfect setting for the film's tense and dramatic scenes. The movie also features some interior shots of the Oregon Historical Society Research Library, which doubled as the Post's newsroom.
Wild (2014)
This biographical drama, based on Cheryl Strayed's memoir, was largely filmed in Oregon. The film follows Cheryl (Reese Witherspoon) as she hikes the Pacific Crest Trail to overcome personal challenges. The stunning landscapes of the Oregon wilderness, including the Cascade Mountains and the Columbia River Gorge, provided the perfect backdrop for Cheryl's emotional journey. The film also features some beautiful shots of the Oregon coast, as Cheryl reflects on her past and looks towards her future.
Portlandia (2011-2018)
While not a movie, we couldn't leave out this beloved IFC sketch comedy series that put Portland, Oregon, on the map. The show's unique brand of humor and quirky characters perfectly captured the spirit of the city and its eccentric residents. Many of the show's sketches were filmed on location in Portland, showcasing the city's vibrant arts scene, independent businesses, and foodie culture. If you've ever wondered what it's like to live in Portland, this show is a must-watch.
Oregon Film Museum
If you're a movie buff who's planning a trip to Oregon, make sure to visit the Oregon Film Museum in Astoria. Housed in the historic Astoria Armory, the museum celebrates the state's rich film history and showcases its many contributions to cinema. You can even pose for a photo in the actual jail cell from The Goonies, one of the most famous movies filmed in Oregon.
Final Thoughts
Oregon's diverse landscapes and film-friendly policies have made it a popular location for movie productions. From classic horror films to coming-of-age dramas and political thrillers, the state has played host to a wide range of cinematic stories. So, the next time you're watching a movie and you spot a familiar Oregon landmark, you'll know that you're not just watching a film – you're experiencing a piece of Oregon's rich film history.
And there you have it, folks! Our comprehensive guide to movies filmed in Oregon. We hope you've enjoyed this cinematic journey through the Beaver State. Until next time, keep your eyes on the silver screen and your hearts open to the magic of cinema.