From classic films to newer releases, Hollywood has taken advantage of our breathtaking mountains on more than one occasion. Pop yourself some popcorn and grab a drink and a blanket — we’re going to catch Asheville on the big screen. Protip: this isn’t a comprehensive list, but rather a shout out to some of my (Editor Brook’s) personal favs.
Filmed in 1979 at our own iconic Biltmore Estate, the film follows a naive, sheltered gardener who becomes the close confidant and advisor to a powerful businessman + Washington, D.C. insider. Bonus: The all-star cast features Peter Sellers + Shirley MacLaine. Catch other movies filmed at Biltmore here.
This 1988 smash follows a minor league baseball team all over, including Asheville, where protagonist Kevin Costner winds up playing for the Asheville Tourists at McCormick Field. Though most of it was filmed in Durham, a few shots of downtown and what is today the River Arts District also make an appearance.
Set in New York’s Catskills Mountains, much of this 1987 film was shot at Lake Lure in Rutherford County. No wonder the town has an annual Dirty Dancing Festival, complete with Lake Lift competitions. DYK: The 2017 remake was also filmed locally.
Set in Jacksonville, N.C. — the Southeastern part of the state — this 2016 comedy actually features scenes filmed in Waynesville, Old Fort + Asheville.
This 1993 film is set in Chicago, but features many scenes filmed in Dillsboro + Bryson City. One of its most iconic scenes — the bus + train wreck — is located on private property owned by the Historical Smoky Mountain Railway.
Based on Suzanne Collins’ bestselling young adult books, this 2012 dystopian global hit was filmed on location in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville and featured stunning scenery from DuPont State Forest in Transylvania County + nearby Black Mountain.
This 1992 blockbuster was set in the Adirondack Mountains of New York during the French and Indian War in 1757, but was filmed throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains, including Chimney Rock State Park, the Biltmore Estate, and a slew of waterfalls located in DuPont State Forest.
🎥 Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri
As the title states, it’s set in Missouri, but the titular billboards were located in nearby Black Mountain. You can also see downtown Sylva, including the Jackson County Courthouse. Other locations that made it into the 2017 film include Weaverville + Dillsboro.
Released in May 1958, the story is set in Tennessee but filmed in and around Buncombe + Transylvania counties — and features a thrilling scene of a car tumbling down Toxaway Falls.
