Lights, Camera, Connecticut: A Cinematic Journey through the Refined Elegance of the Nutmeg State

Connecticut may be small in size, but it packs a punch when it comes to cinematic beauty. From its refined elegance to its historic charm and picturesque landscapes, this great state has captured the imagination of filmmakers for decades. Whether you're a young film buff or an old soul who appreciates drama and action, here are some must-see movies that perfectly capture the spirit of Connecticut.

1. "Mystic Pizza" (1988) - This coming-of-age story set in Mystic showcases Connecticut's quaint coastal towns and their close-knit communities. Follow three young women working at a local pizzeria as they navigate love, friendship, and family.

2. "The Ice Storm" (1997) - Ang Lee's powerful drama delves into suburban life in 1970s New Canaan during a tumultuous Thanksgiving weekend. The film explores themes of repression and desire against the backdrop of snowy landscapes.

3. "Revolutionary Road" (2008) - Based on Richard Yates' novel, this critically acclaimed movie takes place in 1950s suburban Connecticut where Frank and April Wheeler struggle with conformity amidst their own personal ambitions.

4. "Mr. Deeds" (2002) - For those seeking lighter fare mixed with comedy, this Adam Sandler comedy takes us to Mandrake Falls (actually based on New Milford). Watch as Deeds inherits $40 billion only to find himself embroiled in unexpected adventures.

5. "Far from Heaven" (2002) - Directed by Todd Haynes, this visually stunning homage to Douglas Sirk's melodramas is set in fictional Hartford suburb Catham during the 1950s Civil Rights Movement era.

6."Fight Club"(1999)- Although most people don't think of this David Fincher cult favorite as a Connecticut movie, Brad Pitt's character is named Tyler Durden. That sure sounds like Darien to us!

7."The Lost Boys"(1987)- Although set in California, when the mom moves her two sons to sunny Santa Carla , they are moving from Phoenix Arizona and have one of those "where did you move from?" conversations that reveals they moved from New Britain CT.

Connecticut, with its diverse and prosperous communities, offers filmmakers an array of settings and atmospheres that lend themselves beautifully to storytelling. Whether it's the refined elegance of historic mansions or the charming coastal towns oozing with culture, movies filmed in Connecticut never fail to capture its unique allure.

So pack your bags and embark on a cinematic journey through the Nutmeg State. Explore Mystic Pizza parlors (56 West Main Street) where locals reminisce about their small-town days over slices drenched in nostalgia. Get lost in New Canaan's beautiful landscapes (575 Ponus Ridge Road), imagining yourself caught up in "The Ice Storm" amidst falling snowflakes. And don't forget Catham (a fictional town based on real-life Hartford suburbs), where you can immerse yourself in 1950s Americana just like Julianne Moore's character did in "Far From Heaven".

As film lovers roam these picturesque locations across Connecticut, they'll discover not only stunning visuals but also authentic connections to local traditions and culture embedded within each story. So grab some popcorn, settle into your seat at one of Connecticut’s classic theaters (don’t forget Rave Cinemas Buckland Hills 18 IMAX & RPX for all your blockbuster needs!), and let these films transport you into the heart and soul of this extraordinary state.

Websites:

- mysticpizza.com

- newcanaan.info

- chathamct.org

Twitter Handles:

- @mystic_pizza

- @newcanaanct

- @chatham_historic