Oregon-Focused Cinema and Literature: A Compilation of Local Films and Books
Nestled on the coast of the Pacific Northwest, Astoria, Oregon, has become a popular setting for various books and films. This small town, with its unique charm and historical significance, offers a captivating backdrop for storytellers.
One of the most famous films shot in Astoria is The Goonies (1985), which not only used the town as its setting but also filmed several iconic scenes there. The "Goon Docks" neighborhood, where the kids lived, and Mikey’s house are just a few examples of the town's on-screen appearances. The town celebrates its connection to the film annually with a "Goonies Day" event, reflecting the film’s cultural significance there.
Another notable film set in Astoria is Kindergarten Cop (1990), which used a real-life elementary school in the town as a filming location. Short Circuit (1986) also showcases views of the Astoria-Megler Bridge.
Besides films, Astoria has also been the inspiration for several books. Aiden Thomas' novel Lost in the Neverwoods is set in Astoria and is a dark retelling of Peter Pan involving local children disappearing again and the protagonist, Wendy, struggling with her past. Another book set in Astoria, though its title was not specified in the sources, depicts a queer love story and a meditation on starting a business.
In addition to Astoria, other parts of Oregon have also been featured in books and films. Salem, Oregon, served as the filming site for One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1976), a film that swept the Oscars. The classic novel of the same name by Ken Kesey is also set in Salem.
The Oregon State Hospital, where most of the filming took place, still functions as a psychiatric hospital. The hospital now has an onsite museum with an exhibit on One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.
Another intriguing story set in Oregon is the documentary Wild Wild Country that tells the story of the Rajneeshees in Oregon.
Moreover, the town of St Helens, Oregon, has been a filming site for Halloweentown and Twilight movies, adding to the state's diverse filmography. Portland, Oregon, has also been the filming site of numerous movies and TV shows.
Central Oregon and Eastern Oregon have been in a surprising number of films, with their vast landscapes offering a unique setting for storytellers.
In summary, Astoria, Oregon, and other parts of the state have provided a rich backdrop for various books and films. From the dark retelling of Peter Pan in Lost in the Neverwoods to the iconic scenes in The Goonies, these stories showcase the unique charm and historical significance of the towns and landscapes of Oregon.
[1] Source: https://www.oregonlive.com/movies/2018/02/10-films-and-books-set-in-astoria-oregon.html [2] Source: https://www.oregonlive.com/movies/2018/02/comic_book_stores_astoria_oregon.html
Astoria, Oregon, not only inspires home-and-garden and lifestyle narratives but also captivates storytellers in the fields of books and entertainment, as seen in Aiden Thomas' novel 'Lost in the Neverwoods' and various films like 'The Goonies' and 'Kindergarten Cop'.
Travel enthusiasts might enjoy exploring regions in Oregon beyond Astoria, such as Central Oregon and Eastern Oregon, which offer unique settings for books and films like 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' and 'Wild Wild Country', showcasing the state's diverse landscapes and stories.
