The Films of Montana

Montana has been the location for some of the most memorably stunning, as well as poignantly reflective films about the American (as well as human) struggle for love, life and hope. Enjoy, sit back on your couch and journey to Montana through the world of film.

“A River Runs Through It” (1992): This heart wrenching film set in the American wilderness of Montana, tells the story of two brothers and one enthralling woman. It reflects on the implications of war on family, in a seemingly simpler time of the early 1900s.

Robert Redford, the films director who calls the American West his home, choose Bozeman and Livingstone, Montana to represent some the most beautiful country ever captured on film. The landscapes of Montana (no doubt) helped to win “A River Runs Through It” the Academy Award for best Cinematography.

“The Horse Whisperer” (1998): This magical movie uses the beauty of Montana to help tell its story of healing, mysticism and love. Robert Redford directed, as well as starred, in this love story to Montana. Some of the Montana towns filmed were Livingston and Big Timber.

“Far and Away” (1992): Tells the story of hope and love for two Irish immigrants in the historical America of the late 1800s. Montana was most successfully filmed as the stand-in for Okalahoma’s great land claim. Billings and Bozeman, Montana were both chosen to help echo the feelings of hope and the desire for the American Dream.

“What Dreams May Come” (1998): Set in heaven, the magical backdrop of Montana illuminates this Robin William’s fantasy. The title comes from Hamlet’s infamous speech, “To sleep, perchance, to dream…” Montana’s Glacier National Park stars as heaven in all its dreamlike splendor.

Enjoy your journey to Montana!

If you would like some more recommendations for great films with magnificent locations, check out Foreign Films at Suite101 or come visit the North West at Ski Montana: 2006-2007 Ski Season.