Pennsylvania has played a major role in American history, and its mix of big cities, small towns, forests, and farmland has made it a popular filming location. The state has much to offer, from the historic streets of Philadelphia to more rural landscapes. It has been the setting for stories about sports, tragedy, horror, and history. These movies showcase the many different sides of Pennsylvania.
Rocky (1976)
No movie represents Pennsylvania like Rocky. The story of an underdog boxer became hugely popular, and some of the most memorable footage is the athlete training throughout the streets of Philadelphia. The city itself is a big part of this movie; we see the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, as well as the working-class neighborhoods where Rocky lives. The Italian Market is another famous Philadelphia location used during Rocky’s training.
The Sixth Sense (1999)
The Sixth Sense has a wonderful eerie atmosphere, largely thanks to Philadelphia’s historic neighborhoods and empty streets. The movie follows a young boy struggling through childhood and the psychologist trying to help him. This is a truly mysterious, keep-you-on-your-toes movie with maybe the biggest twist ending of all time. The city’s old buildings and autumn streets are the perfect setting for this supernatural movie, making you believe that ghosts really could be hiding there.
Groundhog Day (1993)
The groundhog-loving town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania is a real town, home to the state’s famous Groundhog Day celebration. Oddly enough, much of the film was actually shot in Woodstock, Illinois. Regardless, the movie brought a lot of attention to Pennsylvania and showed the ins and outs of one of its most famous traditions. The shooting locations, despite being elsewhere, truly captured the feel of Pennsylvania communities and small-town charm.
The Deer Hunter (1978)
The Deer Hunter looks at the lives of blue-collar friends before and after the Vietnam War. Set partially in a Pennsylvania steel town, the movie shows the state’s industrial and manufacturing history. The story revolves around the mills, neighborhood bars, and modest homes the workers frequent before going off to Vietnam. It is deeply connected to Pennsylvania.
Unbreakable (2000)
M. Night Shyamalan returns to Pennsylvania as the setting for Unbreakable. The film takes place in Philadelphia and surrounding areas. Audiences see plenty of city trains, neighborhoods, stadiums, and architecture. Unlike many superhero movies, there are no futuristic cities or imaginary worlds. Everything takes place in a regular American environment, which really works to ground the story in reality. It all feels strangely realistic due to Philadelphia’s gray skies and brick buildings.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Set in Pittsburgh, The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a coming-of-age tale. It really nails the experience of growing up in Pennsylvania. The movie is full of Pittsburgh neighborhoods, bridges, and suburban areas. One of its most famous scenes shows the characters driving through the Fort Pitt Tunnel before emerging to see Pittsburgh’s glowing skyline. Pittsburg works well as the setting for this heartfelt story about friendship and finding yourself.
Witness (1985)
Witness is a suspenseful crime story that brings audiences to Pennsylvania’s Amish country. The film shows life outside the city, particularly the small communities of Lancaster County. We see working farms, Amish people, rolling fields, horse-drawn buggies, and a hardworking yet slower lifestyle. This movie certainly gives audiences a look at a side of the state that is very different from Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. The rural lands are an important part of the story instead of just a pretty backdrop. There is a great contrast between the quiet, traditional Amish community and the growing danger surrounding the characters. It makes the setting especially unsettling.
Philadelphia (1993)
Philadelphia is one of the most important and heartbreaking movies connected to the famous city. The film tells the story of a gay lawyer fighting discrimination after being fired because he has AIDS. Tom Hanks gives a powerful performance in the uplighting though tragic film. Scenes show off Philadelphia’s neighborhoods, streets, courthouses, office buildings, and historic landmarks. Audiences get a good look at both the professional and everyday sides of the city as the legal battle take place. The urban environment feels gritty, a bit gloomy, and authentic. Perhaps more than any other film on this list, the city gives the movie a strong sense of place.