Explore the numerous SC destinations featured on the big screen.
South Carolina has had a longstanding history of serving as the backdrop for countless major motion pictures. From suspenseful dramas like “Sleeping with the Enemy” and “The Abyss” to beloved classics like “Forrest Gump” and “The Patriot,” the Palmetto State has been a part of making movie magic since the beginning.
In recent years, the popular coastal destination, Charleston, South Carolina, has had an uptick in the number of movies and television series filmed on its streets. With historical architecture, cobblestoned streets, picturesque waterways and quintessential Southern nuances around every corner, Charleston offers countless diverse locations that have consistently fit the bill for a number of producers’ scripts and story lines.
Two popular love stories that used the beaches, streets, attractions and restaurants of Charleston were the 2010 American love story “Dear John” and 2004 megahit “The Notebook.” When re-creating the story from acclaimed author Nicholas Sparks, actors Amanda Seyfried and Channing Tatum filmed on Bowens Island, near Folly Beach, located a short drive from downtown Charleston. And who could forget when the city was transformed into 1936, setting the stage for the earthshattering love story between Noah and Allie, played by Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams?
Some of the other cities in South Carolina that have served as movie and television locations include Abbeville for the 1990 thriller, “Sleeping with the Enemy,” Walterboro for the 2003 heartfelt story of a mentally challenged football enthusiast, “Radio,” and North Charleston for the seven-season run of the patriotic drama, “Army Wives.”
Scattered across South Carolina are places where movie stars have graced streets, restaurants, beaches, mountains and lakes to create movies for the big screen. Visitors should take note and ensure they include these points of interest on their next visit to the Palmetto State; however, we do recommend that everyone refrain from lying in the streets like Noah and Allie did!
For a complete list of movies and television shows filmed in South Carolina, please visit the South Carolina Film Commission website at FilmSC.com.
For additional information regarding South Carolina's vast array of unique opportunities for enrichment, excitement and escape, as well as a free copy of our special downloadable/printable South Carolina Barbecue Trail Map, featuring more than 200 barbecue restaurants, please visit DiscoverSouthCarolina.com or SouthCarolinaParks.com.
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