SIX MOVIES TO WATCH WHEN YOU’RE HOMESICK FOR UTAH
By Cassie Smith, Producer of the KSL Movie Show
(Written for the KSL NewsRadio app)
As much as it pains me to say it now, in my younger, more foolish years, I wanted nothing more than to move out of Utah. I longed for East Coast autumns and the feel of our nation’s history under my feet. I wanted to walk on the same streets as our founding fathers and experience the sophistication I associated with Washington D.C. I thought I wouldn’t miss the Beehive State if I moved, but I couldn’t have been more wrong.
If you find yourself nostalgic for the snowy mountain tops, the Great Salt Lake and the sweet taste of fry sauce, an afternoon with one of these movies will remind you of home and remedy your homesickness.
1. INDIANA JONES AND THE LAST CRUSADE
Red rocks, blue skies and a sense of upcoming adventure - what’s not to love about the opening of the third installment of the Indiana Jones series? As soon as you see the title card reading “UTAH 1912,” you’ll feel like you’re in the dusty, warm, Southern Utah sun. Plus, a little bit of 80s-era Harrison Ford makes any situation better.
2. FOREVER STRONG
This film tells the story of a troubled rugby player and his experience in a juvenile detention center. It’s a story about redemption, the relationship between a father and son and, most importantly, Chuck-A-Rama. If the mountains in the backgrounds don’t make you think of home, the mashed potatoes and pot roast most certainly will.
3. FOOTLOOSE
Remember that time Kevin Bacon taught his entire town the importance of dance? Filmed in Utah County, you’ll recognize the Lehi Roller Mills building and downtown Payson. Although both cities have grown since the film was released in 1984, you’ll feel nostalgic for the small farming towns that lent the backdrop for Ren McCormick’s angsty footwork and games of tractor-chicken. You’ll definitely want to pull up the soundtrack after you watch this movie because the music is rather catchy.
4. THE PRINCESS BRIDE
If you’re really, truly from the state of Utah, you probably have this movie memorized from start to finish. Battle the Rodents of Unusual Size, survive against a Sicilian when death is on the line and win over true love. As you wish.
5. NAPOLEON DYNAMITE
I know, I know - technically, this movie takes place in Idaho. Still, there’s something charming about Napoleon and his high school experience that feels very Utah. Make yourself a dang quesadilla and settle in for a great time.
6. THE SANDLOT
This coming-of-age film will instantly transport you to your hometown in the 1960s. Because this movie was filmed all over the Wasatch Front, you’re likely to recognize a few familiar filming locations. Even if it’s been years since you last played baseball, this movie will make you feel like you’re surrounded by the friends who were by your side while growing up.