Southeastern North Carolina, is where coastal charm meets Southern elegance, creating a picturesque setting that has captivated filmmakers for decades. With its historic downtown lined with oak-shaded streets, a vibrant riverfront overlooking the Cape Fear River, and miles of pristine beaches, Wilmington offers an unparalleled natural beauty that serves as the perfect canvas for storytelling. Its diverse landscapes—ranging from quaint neighborhoods and scenic marshlands to grand antebellum homes and modern cityscapes—provide a variety of backdrops, making it a sought-after destination for the movie and television industry. Nicknamed “Hollywood East,” Wilmington’s thriving film scene, bolstered by state-of-the-art production facilities and a welcoming community, has hosted numerous iconic productions, proving that its beauty isn’t just for visitors to admire—it’s meant to be captured on screen.
Wilmington’s Film Industry Boom
The movie industry in Wilmington took off when EUE/Screen Gems Studios opened in 1984. Since then, it has attracted countless filmmakers, from major blockbusters to beloved TV series. Over the years, productions have ranged from classic TV shows like Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill to hit films like The Hunger Games: Mockingjay and Iron Man 3.
Wilmington’s success in the film industry isn’t just about its studios but also its ability to offer a diverse range of filming locations. Whether filmmakers need a coastal backdrop, an urban environment, or a historic setting, Wilmington has it all.
Wilmington’s striking scenery and charming locations have made it a prime destination for filmmakers. Many spots have become recognizable to movie buffs and locals alike. See the Wilmington Regional Film Commission’s exhaustive list of movies filmed in Wilmington. But here are some of the most notable locations featured in films and TV shows:
- Wilmington’s Historic District: The cobblestone streets and beautiful 19th-century buildings of downtown Wilmington have been featured in films like The Secret Life of Bees and We’re the Millers. The district’s timeless beauty continues to serve as the perfect setting for both period pieces and contemporary dramas.
- Wrightsville Beach: Known for its stunning coastline and pristine waters, Wrightsville Beach has been featured in movies such as I Know What You Did Last Summer and Summer Catch. Its wide sandy shores and vibrant pier make it an ideal filming location for beach scenes and a favorite destination for filmmakers and beach lovers alike.
- Airlie Gardens: This 67-acre garden oasis is not only a popular wedding venue but also a prime filming location. Its beautiful landscapes, seasonal flowers, and historic structures have appeared in productions like The Hunger Games: Mockingjay and The Secret Life of Bees.
- Fort Fisher (Kure Beach): A short drive from Wilmington, Fort Fisher offers a historic setting with Civil War history and scenic views. It appeared in Iron Man 3, providing the backdrop for action-packed sequences.
Southport: The Perfect Coastal Village for Filming
Just south of Wilmington, Southport has earned a reputation as a beloved filming location. Its quaint coastal charm, picturesque homes, and historic piers have made it a popular backdrop for movies, particularly Nicholas Sparks adaptations like *Safe Haven*.
Here are a few notable films shot in the Southport area:
- Crimes of the Heart (1987): Filmed at various Southport locations, including the famous “Crimes of the Heart house” at 211 Caswell Avenue, Dosher Memorial Hospital, and Orton Plantation.
- Firestarter (1984): This Stephen King classic was filmed in various parts of North Carolina, including a house on Howe Street in Southport.
- Weekend at Bernie’s (1989): Almost entirely filmed in Southport, with recognizable locations such as Long Beach Road and the Southport-Fort Fisher Ferry Terminal.
- I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997): Shot in Southport, Wilmington, and Bald Head Island. The infamous “hook scene” was filmed on the pier at Southport Marina.
- Summer Catch (2001): Filmed at the Southport Visitors’ Center and along the Cape Fear River.
- The Conjuring 3 (2021): Filmed at The Old Brunswick County Jail, offered an eerie and striking historic building.
Other Notable Movies Filmed in the Area
- A Walk to Remember (2002) – various locations in Southport
- Tammy (2013) – Boiling Spring Lakes, The Grille Restaurant (Shallotte)
- We’re the Millers (2013) – Brunswick Forest
- Iron Man 3 (2013) – Oak Island
- The Longest Ride (2015) – Caswell Beach
Whether you’re strolling through Wilmington’s historic district, relaxing at Wrightsville Beach, or exploring the charming town of Southport, you’ll find that the region’s cinematic legacy is deeply woven into its coastal beauty. Next time you visit, be sure to check out these famous filming locations and immerse yourself in the magic of Wilmington’s movie industry.
