Oregon has some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. It’s mainly known for its gorgeous often overcast, coastlines, but the interior of the state has much to offer as well. Dense evergreen forests, quirky towns, and dramatic mountain ridges are a few examples. The state has a unique atmosphere that resonates on film. Over the years, Oregon has been used as the setting for many genres including horror, family films, buddy adventures, and coming-of-age stories. These movies show off the beauty, mystery, and personality of Oregon.
The Goonies (1985)
The Goonies might be the ultimate Oregon movie. Set in the seaside town of Astoria, the film follows a group of kids who go on a wild adventure after finding an old treasure map. The movie shows off Astoria’s historic homes and hilly streets before eventually taking the adventure toward Oregon’s rugged coastline. We see the misty beaches of Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock. Decades after its release, fans still visit Astoria to tour the filming locations.
Stand by Me (1986)
Stand by Me is one of the most popular coming-of-age movies ever made. It was shot in Brownsville, Oregon, which is the perfect backdrop for its heartwarming story. In the movie, four young boys journey through forests, over railroad tracks, and through small towns. The still and beautiful Pacific Northwest contributes to the bittersweet story of growing up.
Wild (2014)
This one is based on Cheryl Strayed’s widely read memoir, Wild. Because the movie details one long outdoor trek through wilderness, Wild created the perfect opportunity to film various Oregon scenery. While struggling with personal trauma, the main character hikes the expansive Pacific Crest Trail through California and Oregon toward Washington. We see the rugged beauty of Oregon’s landscapes while Reese Whitherspoon’s character searches for healing and self-discovery. This is one movie where the natural environment practically becomes another character. The forests, mountains and other difficult terrain shape how she copes with her grief, pushing her physically and emotionally. The state’s natural beauty is powerful.
Twilight (2008)
The rainy forests of Oregon became a major part of the ever-popular Twilight. Although the story takes place in the town of Forks, Washington, many scenes were filmed in Oregon. Several locations around Portland and the Columbia River Gorge were used, and St. Helens, Oregon, stood in for parts of Forks. Filmmakers took full advantage of the state’s gloomy skies, thick forests, and dramatic cliffs to build a supernatural atmosphere. The rainy and overcast Pacific Northwest was the perfect setting for a vampire movie.
Animal House (1978)
Animal House is one of the most famous college comedies ever made. Though it is more associated with partying and goofy characters than its setting, the iconic film was shot around the University of Oregon in Eugene. While focusing on the energy and chaos of college life, the movie also featured the college campus and surrounding area. This movie was immensely popular.
Coraline (2009)
This stop-motion animation film includes the rainy and slightly mysterious feeling associated with Oregon. Inspired by author Neil Gaiman’s time in the state, Coraline features cozy houses, overgrown gardens, and a haunting fantasy land. Even the animation was created by Oregon-based animation studio Laika in the Portland area. The movie feels like an eerie fairy tale version of the Pacific Northwest.
Sometimes a Great Notion (1971)
Sometimes a Great Notion revolves around Oregon’s historic logging culture. Based on the novel by Oregon author Ken Kesey, the movie follows an independent logging family that refuses to stop working during a labor dispute. It is ultimately about family, independence, and tradition. Filmed around the Oregon coast, the movie features dense forests, waterways, and the rough environment surrounding the timber industry. The harsh environment also shows just how physically demanding logging could be during this period. This movie connects to Oregon’s working-class history like no other. With plenty of wild landscapes, it might be one of the most authentically Oregon movies on this list.