Lights, Camera, Action! A Hilarious Look at Movies Made in Pennsylvania (That Aren't Just Rocky Running Up Steps)
Pennsylvania: cheesesteaks, Liberty Bell, and...Hollywood? Believe it or not, the Keystone State has been a filming location for a surprising number of blockbuster hits and cult classics. So, ditch the Rocky training montage for a second (though, those steps are pretty iconic), and get ready for a whistle-stop tour of some of the most entertaining movies filmed in PA!
 |
| What Famous Movies Were Filmed In Pennsylvania |
From Gritty Steel Towns to City Sophistication: Pennsylvania's Diverse Backdrops
Pennsylvania offers a smorgasbord of filming options. Want a gritty, blue-collar vibe? Head on over to Pittsburgh, where movies like "The Deer Hunter" captured the essence of the steel industry and "Fathers and Daughters" explored family dynamics.
Feeling fancy? Philly's your place! "Silver Linings Playbook" showed us the quirkier side of the City of Brotherly Love, while thrillers like "Dressed to Kill" used the city's elegance as a backdrop for a killer plot (pun intended).
Bonus Fun Fact: Did you know that the courtroom scenes in "Philadelphia" starring Tom Hanks were actually filmed in...wait for it...Pittsburgh!
Tip: Read once for flow, once for detail.
More Than Rocky and Cheesesteaks: A Celebration of PA's Cinematic Gems
Of course, we can't forget the iconic "Rocky". But Pennsylvania has so much more to offer! Here are a few films that might surprise you:
- "Silence of the Lambs": Who knew moth cocoons and FBI trainees could be found in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania?
- "Night of the Living Dead": This cult classic zombie flick put a small Pennsylvania town (and our nightmares) on the map.
- "The Blob": Apparently, this gooey alien menace has a thing for Pennsylvania towns too. Maybe it's the cheesesteaks?
Hidden Gem Alert: Ever heard of "An American Pickle"? This hilarious comedy about a brine-preserved worker from 1920s Brooklyn who wakes up in modern-day Pittsburgh is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a good fish-out-of-water story (or pickle-out-of-a-barrel story, I guess).
So You Want to Be the Next Steven Spielberg (in Pennsylvania)?
Feeling inspired? Pennsylvania offers plenty of resources and stunning locations to bring your filmmaking dreams to life. But before you grab your camera and yell "Action!", here are a few things to consider:
QuickTip: Revisit posts more than once.
How to Get a Film Permit in Pennsylvania?
The permitting process will vary depending on the location, so it's best to check with the specific city or county film office.
How to Find Filming Locations in Pennsylvania?
QuickTip: Don’t just consume — reflect.
 |
The Pennsylvania Film Office has a great website with resources to help you scout locations: https://filminpa.com/
How to Fund Your Pennsylvania Film Project?
There are various grants and funding opportunities available for filmmakers in Pennsylvania. Check out the PA Film Office website for more info.
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
How to Assemble a Film Crew in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has a talented pool of filmmakers, actors, and crew members. Look online or connect with film schools and organizations to find the right people for your project.
How to Screen Your Pennsylvania Film?
There are many film festivals held throughout Pennsylvania throughout the year. Submit your film and get it seen by the world (or at least your local cinephiles)!
So there you have it! From Hollywood blockbusters to cult classics, Pennsylvania has been a breeding ground for some truly entertaining films. So next time you're flipping through channels, keep an eye out for the Keystone State on screen. You might just be surprised by what you find!
 |
