From the bustling city of Atlanta to the picturesque landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains, Georgia has been a favored destination for filmmakers worldwide. Its diverse scenery, rich history, and cultural heritage provide the perfect backdrop for countless cinematic masterpieces.
So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey into Georgia’s cinematic landscape!
Georgia in Celluloid: 10 Noteworthy Films Shot in Georgia
Georgia, with its architectural grandeur, sprawling plantations, and vibrant cities, has been a source of inspiration for filmmakers. Here are ten films that have beautifully captured the essence of Georgia:
- “Gone with the Wind” (1939) – This classic tale of love set against the backdrop of the American Civil War brilliantly showcases the antebellum South with Georgia as its heart.
- “Deliverance” (1972) – This adventure thriller uses the wild, untamed landscapes of Georgia’s Appalachian wilderness to weave a tale of survival.
- “Driving Miss Daisy” (1989) – This drama, set in Atlanta, offers a poignant view of the city’s cultural evolution through the decades.
- “Forrest Gump” (1994) – While the story spans across various US states, many of its iconic scenes, including the famous bench scene, were filmed in Savannah, Georgia.
- “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” (1997) – This crime drama showcases the mysterious charm of Savannah.
- “Sweet Home Alabama” (2002) – While the story is set in Alabama, this romantic comedy was filmed in various locations across Georgia.
- “Ray” (2004) – The life of legendary musician Ray Charles comes alive against the backdrop of Georgia, his home state.
- “The Walking Dead” (2010-present) – Georgia’s rustic landscapes serve as the perfect setting for this popular post-apocalyptic TV series.
- “Flight” (2012) – This drama, featuring an incredible plane crash sequence, was filmed in and around Atlanta.
- “Baby Driver” (2017) – This action-packed film showcases the cityscape of Atlanta in a thrilling car chase.
Through these films, we witness the versatile beauty of Georgia, proving its significant contribution to the cinematic world.
Immersive Tales: 5 TV Series Set in Georgia
Apart from films, Georgia has also been a popular setting for numerous television series. Here are five series that encapsulate the spirit of this southern state:
- “The Dukes of Hazzard” (1979-1985) – This action-comedy series, set in the fictional Hazzard County, Georgia, is a fun-filled ride into the rural Southern culture.
- “In the Heat of the Night” (1988-1995) – Based in the fictional town of Sparta, Mississippi, this crime drama was primarily filmed in Covington, Georgia.
- “The Vampire Diaries” (2009-2017) – The fictional town of Mystic Falls, Virginia, in this supernatural drama series, is actually the town of Covington, Georgia.
- “Stranger Things” (2016-present) – This popular Netflix series, set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, is filmed in and around Atlanta.
- “Ozark” (2017-present) – While the story takes place in Missouri, this crime drama series is filmed in Atlanta and its surrounding areas.
Through these series, viewers can experience Georgia’s charm, from its small towns to its bustling cities.
Animated Adventures: 5 Animated Films Set in Georgia
Georgia’s appeal isn’t limited to live-action films and TV shows. The state has also served as a vivid backdrop for various animated adventures. Below are five children’s and animated films inspired by Georgia:
- “Song of the South” (1946) – This classic Disney film is set in the Southern state of Georgia post-Civil War.
- “The Rescuers” (1977) – While the location is not explicitly stated, the southern charm and bayou landscapes in this Disney film suggest it could be set in Georgia.
- “Squidbillies” (2005-present) – This adult animated television series, showcasing the adventures of anthropomorphic hillbilly squids, is set in the Georgia mountains.
- “Class of 3000” (2006-2008) – This animated series, set in Atlanta, focuses on a music teacher guiding a group of talented students at a music school.
- “Archer” (2009-present) – This adult animated series is based in a fictionalized version of Atlanta.
These animated features bring Georgia’s unique blend of city life and rural charm to life, providing audiences, especially children, with engaging stories and stunning visuals that highlight the state’s allure.
Literary Wanderlust: Renowned Books Set in Georgia
Georgia’s rich history, culture, and landscapes have inspired many authors. From classic works to contemporary narratives, here are some famous books set in Georgia that transport you to the heart of the Peach State:
Classic:
- “Gone with the Wind” by Margaret Mitchell – This epic romance novel, set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, offers a vivid portrayal of Georgia during the period.
- “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker – This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, set in rural Georgia, explores the life of African American women in the southern United States in the 1930s.
- “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” by John Berendt – This non-fiction work presents a colorful panorama of Savannah’s eccentric characters and gothic ambiance.
Contemporary:
- “The Last Song” by Nicholas Sparks – Set in the small, coastal town of Tybee Island, Georgia, this novel tells a moving story of family, first love, and second chances.
- “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones – This contemporary novel, set in Atlanta, explores the effects of wrongful incarceration on a young African-American couple’s relationship.
- “Flight” by Sherman Alexie – This novel follows the time-traveling adventures of a teenage orphan, with significant events set in Georgia.
Whether you’re a fan of historical epics or contemporary dramas, these books offer a literary journey through Georgia’s multifaceted landscape, from its historic landmarks to its modern cities.
Cinematic Expeditions: Exploring Georgia Filming Locations
Georgia, with its iconic landmarks and breathtaking landscapes, has been a favored locale for filmmakers. If you’re eager to follow in the footsteps of your favorite on-screen characters, here are some essential filming locations in Georgia you must visit:
- Tybee Island – This coastal city was the setting for several scenes in “The Last Song.”
- Juliette – The town was transformed into the fictional Whistle Stop for the film “Fried Green Tomatoes.”
- Savannah – Known for its historic charm, Savannah has been a filming location for “Forrest Gump” and “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.”
- Senioa – This small town is the primary filming location for “The Walking Dead.”
- Atlanta – The bustling capital of Georgia has hosted numerous productions, including “Baby Driver,” “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire,” and “Black Panther.”
Exploring these filming locations offers a unique blend of sightseeing and entertainment, allowing you to engage with Georgia’s film heritage while enjoying its many cultural and natural attractions.
Lodging in Georgia: From Budget to Luxury
Georgia, known for its southern hospitality, offers a range of accommodations, from the ultra-luxurious to the wallet-friendly.
Luxury:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta – Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, this luxury hotel offers a blend of modern design and classic elegance.
- The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa – This resort, situated on the Savannah River, offers stunning views of Savannah’s historic district.
- The Lodge at Sea Island – Located on the coast, this luxury resort offers golf courses, a spa, and fine dining.
Budget:
- Savannah International Pensione – This budget-friendly guesthouse in Savannah offers clean rooms and a convenient location.
- The Atlanta Hostel – Situated in Atlanta’s Midtown neighborhood, this hostel offers affordable accommodations in a vibrant setting.
- Jekyll Island Campground – For an economical and outdoorsy stay, this campground offers both tent and RV camping.
Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation or a budget-friendly option, Georgia offers various options to suit every travel style.
Georgia’s Culinary Scene: From Budget to Luxury
Georgia’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes, offering a range of dining options from budget-friendly eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here are some places where you can savor the flavors of Georgia at both ends of the budget spectrum.
Budget:
- The Varsity, Atlanta – Known as the world’s largest drive-in restaurant, The Varsity offers affordable, classic American fast food.
- Wiley’s Championship BBQ, Savannah – This award-winning eatery serves up some of the best BBQ in the state at reasonable prices.
- Home Grown, Atlanta – This popular spot offers classic Southern breakfast and lunch dishes at budget-friendly prices.
Luxury:
- Bacchanalia, Atlanta – This upscale restaurant is renowned for its contemporary American cuisine made with organic ingredients.
- The Grey, Savannah – Housed in a former Greyhound bus terminal, this restaurant offers a high-end dining experience with a menu inspired by Southern cuisine.
- Five & Ten, Athens – Led by a James Beard Award-winning chef, Five & Ten serves up innovative Southern cuisine in an upscale setting.
Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or a gourmet connoisseur seeking the finest culinary experiences, Georgia offers a wealth of gastronomic delights to satisfy every palate.
Georgia’s Cinematic Landscape: A 5-Day Itinerary
Experience Georgia’s cinematic charm with this five-day itinerary, exploring famous filming locations and immersing yourself in the state’s rich culture and history.
Day 1: Atlanta – Start your tour in Georgia’s capital, Atlanta. Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, featured in “Selma.” Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Little Five Points, a location for “Baby Driver.”
Day 2: Senoia – Visit the small town of Senoia, the primary filming location for “The Walking Dead.” Take a guided tour to see the locations used in the series.
Day 3: Juliette – Head to Juliette, where “Fried Green Tomatoes” was filmed. Have lunch at the Whistle Stop Cafe, featured in the film.
Day 4: Savannah – Explore Savannah, known for its historic charm. Visit Chippewa Square, where the famous bench scene in “Forrest Gump” was filmed.
Day 5: Tybee Island – Spend your last day on Tybee Island, where “The Last Song” was filmed. Visit the Tybee Island Lighthouse, a picturesque location featured in several films.
This itinerary ensures you experience Georgia’s cinematic charm, exploring the state’s famous filming locations and immersing yourself in its rich culture and history.
Mysterious Georgia: Legends and Curiosities
Beyond its cinematic charm, Georgia is also a land of mystery and legends. One of the most famous legends in Georgia is the Lake Lanier Hauntings, with numerous reports of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena. Such tales add an element of the mysterious to Georgia’s cinematic locations, offering a rich vein of inspiration for storytellers.
Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Filming Locations in Georgia
While Georgia’s iconic landmarks are popular filming locations, the state also boasts numerous lesser-known locales that are cinematic gold. Here are a few off-the-beaten-path gems:
- Cumberland Island – This secluded island, with its wild horses and pristine beaches, was a filming location for “The Last Song.”
- Providence Canyon – Known as the “Little Grand Canyon,” this state park has been featured in several films and music videos.
- Senoia – This small town has been transformed into the fictional town of Woodbury in “The Walking Dead.”
Whether you’re a filmmaker seeking unique locations or a tourist looking for lesser-known spots, these hidden gems offer unique experiences.
Packing for a Film-Themed Trip to Georgia
Packing for a film-themed trip to Georgia requires consideration of the state’s climate and the activities you plan to do. Here are some essentials:
- Comfortable footwear – You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
- Versatile clothing – Pack layers to adjust to the changing weather. Include a mix of casual and smart outfits.
- Rain gear – A compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket is essential as rain showers can occur unexpectedly.
- Camera – To capture your own cinematic memories.
- Travel guide and map – For finding those filming locations and hidden gems.
With these packing tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your cinematic journey through Georgia.
Navigating Georgia: Transportation Tips
Getting around Georgia can be relatively easy, thanks to the state’s extensive transportation network. Here are some tips:
Rail – Amtrak services connect Georgia with major cities in the US.
Car – Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore the countryside or smaller towns. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy in Atlanta.
Public Transportation – Larger cities like Atlanta and Savannah have comprehensive public transportation systems, including buses and streetcars.
Bike – Many Georgian cities are bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs.
With these transportation options, you can easily explore Georgia’s cinematic locations.
Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Georgia
When planning your trip to Georgia, it’s crucial to have the right travel documents:
- Passport – Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from the US.
- Visa – Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter the US. Check the US Embassy or Consulate website in your country for requirements.
- Travel Insurance – It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
- International Driving Permit – If you plan to rent a car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required along with your valid driver’s license.
Having these documents in order will help ensure a smooth journey to Georgia.
Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to Georgia’s Cinematic Landscape
From the vibrant city of Atlanta to the coastal charm of Tybee Island, Georgia offers a cinematic journey like no other. Whether you’re a film buff, a TV series enthusiast, a book lover, or a traveler in search of unique experiences, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Georgia’s cinematic landscape. Embark on a journey through Georgia’s famous films, TV shows, books, and discover the hidden gems that make this state a filmmaker’s dream. Enjoy your journey!