Grab the popcorn and settle in to enjoy some breathtaking landscapes and evocative views.
Oregon frequently serves as a popular setting for films, with classics like “The Goonies” and “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” immediately springing to mind. Yet, beyond these iconic films lies a treasure trove of lesser-known movies shot throughout the state, both major studio productions and independent projects. And, while only two movies filmed on the South Coast are currently on the Oregon Film Trail, the Southern Oregon Coast (SOC) is no exception. Our little bit of the world has inspired many a filmmaker. So, grab the popcorn and delve into this collection of movies that highlight our coastal splendor.
Heartwarming and Inspirational
Slip Away on “Redwood Highway” (2013)
Feeling disconnected from her family and unfulfilled in life, an unhappy retiree embarks on an 80-mile journey through redwood forests to the Oregon coast, eager to glimpse the ocean for the first time in 45 years. Along the way, she meets a diverse cast of characters and learns that age is no barrier to gaining new insights about life and oneself. Directed by Oregon-based Gary Lundgren, “Redwood Highway” features Golden Globe winners Shirley Knight and Tom Skerritt. The movie beautifully portrays the majestic redwoods and the stunning coastline of Brookings. It’s an excellent introduction to your SOC film tour.
Paddle “The Watchman’s Canoe” (2017)
“The Watchman’s Canoe” follows the awakening of a young girl of Caucasian-Native American heritage who faces challenges fitting in on her reservation. After calling upon the trees to shield her against bullies, she realizes she has a unique bond with nature, leading her on a quest to discover her true destiny. Set against the backdrop of Coos Bay and Charleston, the storyline pays homage to the Native American Indian Tribes residing in this area. Rivers, bays, and pristine forests are prominently featured, illustrating that the coast encompasses much more than just the ocean and beach.
Learn to Live “Without Limits” (1998)
“Without Limits,” one of the two films on the Oregon Film Trail shot along the SOC, tells the story of legendary runner Steve Prefontaine (Pre) and his relationship with renowned coach Bill Bowerman. Produced by Tom Cruise, the film stars Billy Crudup and Donald Sutherland. Most filming took place at the University of Oregon in Eugene, but scenes depicting Pre’s early life and after his fourth-place finish at the 1972 Munich Olympics were shot in and around Coos Bay. Don’t miss the memorable scenes of him running along the top of the dunes at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Pre, a beloved son of Coos Bay, continues to be celebrated in many ways today. This movie is a must-see for Olympics enthusiasts and inspiration-seekers alike.
“Golf in the Kingdom” of Bandon (2010)
It’s 1956, and American philosophy student Michael is traveling to an ashram in India. Along the way, he makes a detour to the Links of Burningbush in Scotland for a final round of golf. There, he encounters a mystical golf pro who teaches him about golf and spirituality. This picture, shot at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, a course designed to reflect Scotland’s classic links, reveals why Bandon Dunes is a must-play for golf enthusiasts. Even non-golfers will be enticed to walk the scenic trails across its grounds to experience the unforgettable panoramas.
Catch “Good Luck” (1996)
A former dental student confined to a wheelchair and an ex-professional football player blinded by a quirky on-field mishap make an unlikely choice. Feeling a bit stuck in their daily lives, they decide to shake things up and enter a whitewater rafting race on Oregon’s Rogue River. During the adventure, they discover their disabilities don’t have to hold them back from chasing their dreams. “Good Luck,” starring Gregory Hines and Vincent D’Onofrio, is an independent comedy filmed in Portland and Coos Bay. Notable South Coast locations like McCullough Bridge, the Winchester Bay dock, and the former Gussie’s bar make an appearance. It’s an entertaining movie, and catching it would indeed be “Good Luck.”
Cheer when “Old Ladies Find Money” (2024)
On a storm-battered beach, two women of a certain age stumble upon $2.5 million and decide to keep it, believing their age renders them unlikely suspects. However, when two criminals arrive in town searching for their missing money and a local turns up dead, the women must concoct a plan to safeguard their community. Naturally, chaos ensues. Filmed in the picturesque town of Bandon and along its impressive beaches, the scenery is undeniably mesmerizing.
Romantic and Dramatic
“Why Dig When You Can Pluck?” (2024)
In a quest for inspiration, a filmmaker takes a camping trip along the Oregon coast with her erratic husband and defiant young son. As she grapples with conflicting desires to be both a devoted mother and a creative artist, she experiences a painful yet powerful breakthrough. “Why Dig When You Can Pluck?” was filmed on Harris Beach in Brookings and in Arch Cape on the North Oregon Coast. You’ll definitely be inspired for a trip to the beach, perhaps with a more joyful family.
Sail with “The Sea Gypsies” (1978)
A man, a woman, and three children set sail on a journey around the world, only to be shipwrecked on an uninhabited island. Despite the challenges, they endure numerous adventures and grow into a close-knit family. This exquisitely filmed movie offers a blend of excitement, danger, romance, and comedy. Shot primarily in Gold Beach, it delights the heart while showcasing the extraordinary beauty of the landscape. It’s a wonderful story to watch with young children.
Experience “Hard Luck” (2001)
Eighty-eight days before his scheduled release from a state mental hospital, Lucky O’Donnell escapes and begins on a life-changing journey back home. “Hard Luck” presents a poignant yet dark narrative centered on three childhood friends who reunite to accompany one of them, terminally ill, on a final trip. The film’s coastal scenes, shot in Brookings, Gold Beach, and Lakeside, enhance the movie’s visual appeal. Keep an eye out for shots featuring the SOC’s iconic sea stacks at Secret Beach.
Sci-Fi Thrilling
Fall Back “65” Million Years (2023)
Sixty-five million years ago, a space pilot crashes on an uncharted planet with a harsh environment and strives to help a young girl survive. The mysterious planet turns out to be Earth, on the brink of the dinosaurs’ extinction. “65” is one of the two films from the Southern Oregon Coast featured on the Oregon Film Trail. Starring Adam Driver, the film showcases several striking locations along the South Coast, including Agness, Coos Bay, Elk Creek Falls, Meyer’s Creek Beach in Gold Beach, and Whaleshead Beach in Brookings. Come for a visit and experience the pristine, prehistoric landscapes that captivated the filmmakers and brought them here to shoot this enchanting story.
Take the “Black Road” to Jefferson (2016)
Set in 2029, this sci-fi thriller takes place in a lawless coastal town after Oregon secedes to create the State of Jefferson. The narrative follows an ex-military drifter who puts everything on the line to protect a woman from her menacing ex-boyfriend. With the help of Clyde, his AI implant, who serves as both partner and confidant, he navigates the dangers of this chaotic world. Also by Oregon-based director Gary Lungren, “Black Road” showcases the captivating landscapes of the SOC. Watch to witness the wild and scenic beauty that continually inspires filmmakers to exploit our coastline.
Exclusively for Horror Lovers
Don’t Get Caught “Red Handed” (2019)
After their father is murdered, three brothers travel to an Oregon mountain river to scatter his ashes. Upon their arrival, one of their children mysteriously disappears. The event eerily mirrors an incident from 30 years ago when one of the brothers was abducted at this same river, an experience he has since repressed. To locate the missing child, they must delve into his subconscious and unravel the hidden mysteries within. Produced by Nick Cassavetes, the movie showcases Port Orford‘s rivers, forests, and surrounding mountains. Again, highlighting the fact that the South Coast is more than just the beach.
Play a “Blood Song” (1982)
A psychopath named Paul escapes from a mental institution and goes on a killing spree, culminating in the pursuit of Marion, a young disabled girl in a coastal Oregon town. Having once received a blood transfusion from Paul, Marion now possesses an extrasensory perception of his current actions. The film, shot in Coos Bay, North Bend, and Coquille, stars Frankie Avalon as Paul. This story highlights that not all teenage idols are as charming as they once seemed.
Toss Back all “Bad Fish” (2024)
In a coastal Oregon town, a marine biologist discovers the cause of mysterious and deadly attacks on local fishermen: a mermaid in search of a mate before returning to the sea. This tale is certainly not a Disney film for children. The coastal scenes in “Bad Fish” were gorgeously shot in Brookings and Harbor. Beware of mermaids, but be prepared to be captured by the scenery that makes this film spectacular to watch.
Book “The Rental” for a Scream (2020)
“The Rental” is a gripping horror mystery that (unfortunately) might make you reconsider your summer vacation plans. Two couples rent a vacation home for what promises to be a celebratory weekend getaway. What could possibly go wrong? The amazing backdrop for this movie is a large estate home located between Bandon and Coos Bay. Perched high on a bluff, the views don’t get any better. And, we promise if you visit, this won’t happen to you… probably.
Map Out Your Southern Oregon Coast Film Trail Adventure
The Southern Oregon Coast, with its rugged, scenic, and sometimes otherworldly landscapes, has long served as a filmmaker’s muse. While we’ve spotlighted a few notable feature films, the South Coast has sparked numerous other movies, shorts, and documentaries. If you encounter one, give it a watch. You might just find yourself mapping out a trip to soak in the wild and stunning beauty where these cinematic gems were brought to life.
**Header image by Manuela Durson Photography
