So You Wanna Movie Marathon Like a Michigander, Eh?
Ever looked at a movie and thought, "Hey, that totally looks like Michigan!"? Well, you might be right! The Great Lakes State has been a backdrop for everything from gritty crime dramas to teen coming-of-age stories. Buckle up, film buffs, because we're taking a hilarious trip through some of the most surprising (and maybe a few not-so-surprising) movies filmed in Michigan.
Action! Adventure! Ahem... Automobile Mishaps?
Let's face it, Michigan has a love affair with cars. So, naturally, it's been the stomping ground for some epic (and sometimes explosive) car chases. We've got the high-octane adrenaline rush of Need for Speed tearing through Detroit, and the surprisingly emotional robot boxing brawl of Real Steel that left us cheering for a bot built in the Mitten State.
But Wait, There's More!
Michigan isn't all about horsepower. We've got some serious dramatic chops too. The suspenseful Gran Torino had Clint Eastwood growling his way through the streets of Detroit, while Anatomy of a Murder (filmed in the Upper Peninsula no less!) is a legal drama classic that will have you glued to the screen.
Campy Classics (and Maybe a Few You Forgot Existed)
Michigan's got a sense of humor, and it shows in the movies filmed here. Remember that time we somehow convinced Hollywood to film a teen rom-com entirely in a roller derby setting? Yep, that was Whip It. And who could forget the cult classic Escanaba in da Moonlight, a hilarious look at Yoopers (translation: folks from the Upper Peninsula) on a hunting trip?
Hey, Even Superheroes Need a Vacation!
Even the big guys in tights take a break in Michigan sometimes. We saw the epic clash between Batman and Superman go down in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and who could forget the chilling horror of It Follows stalking its victims through the streets of Detroit?
How to Become a Michigan Movie Master
Feeling inspired? Here's your quick guide to becoming a Michigan movie aficionado:
- Become a connoisseur of car chases: Brush up on your knowledge of Detroit's geography – you'll be a pro at spotting landmarks in those high-speed chases.
- Embrace the unexpected: From superhero showdowns to roller derby dreams, Michigan movies offer something for everyone.
- Deep dive into the Mitten State: Once you've seen the movie, hit the road and see the Michigan locations for yourself!
Bonus FAQ for the Curious Cinephile
How to identify a Yooper in a movie? Listen for thick accents and a healthy dose of "eh?" at the end of sentences.
How to find out where a movie was filmed? The internet is your friend! Websites like IMDb often have filming location listings.
How to convince your friends to have a Michigan movie marathon? Bribe them with delicious pasties (a traditional U.P. treat).
How to survive a trip to the Upper Peninsula? Pack warm clothes, be prepared for stunning natural beauty, and embrace the "no frills" attitude.
How to avoid being followed by a vengeful entity after watching "It Follows?" Let's just say staying single might be a good idea... (Just kidding... mostly.)
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