The Most Famous Movie Set in Every State

From 'Forrest Gump' to 'The Shining,' these are the iconic films that define each U.S. state.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:40pm

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An extreme close-up photograph showcasing the luxurious textures of movie industry glamour, such as shimmering sequins and plush velvet, bathed in dramatic high-contrast studio lighting to create a high-fashion, conceptual aesthetic.The vibrant textures and dramatic lighting of classic Hollywood glamour capture the timeless allure of cinema that has captivated audiences across America.Alexandria Today

Every state is home to at least one truly iconic movie. Business Insider set out to name the most famous movie in every state, evaluating factors like a film's prominence, critical acclaim, and box office success. The results span a wide range of genres, from classic Westerns to beloved coming-of-age tales, showcasing the diverse cinematic landscapes of America.

Why it matters

These movies not only entertain audiences but also shape perceptions of their respective states, often becoming synonymous with the locations they depict. By highlighting the most famous films set in each state, this story provides a unique window into the cultural and geographic diversity of the United States through the lens of cinema.

The details

The selection process involved considering a film's box-office performance, awards recognition, and pop-culture impact, as well as whether it was actually filmed in the state it represents. The list includes classics like 'Forrest Gump' in Alabama, 'The Shining' in Colorado, and 'Hairspray' in Maryland, as well as cult favorites such as 'Napoleon Dynamite' in Idaho and 'Raising Arizona' in Arizona.

  • The story was published on April 10, 2026.

The players

Business Insider

The news and media company that compiled the list of the most famous movies set in each U.S. state.

Melia Robinson

One of the original authors of the story.

Frank Pallotta

One of the original authors of the story.

Melissa Stanger

An additional reporter who contributed to the story.

Ian Phillips

An additional reporter who contributed to the story.

Kirsten Acuna

An additional reporter who contributed to the story.

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What they’re saying

“The Coens made the pair all the more real by incorporating a vernacular that Joel Coen called 'a mixture of local dialect and a vocabulary we imagined from the likely reading materials of the characters.'”

— Joel Coen

The takeaway

This comprehensive list of the most famous movies set in each U.S. state provides a unique cinematic tour of America, showcasing the diverse landscapes, cultures, and stories that have captivated audiences on the silver screen. These films have become iconic representations of their respective locations, shaping perceptions and inspiring fans to explore the real-life settings that inspired their favorite movies.