From classic movies to newer releases, Hollywood has taken advantage of Knoxville’s historic buildings + small town charm on more than one occasion. Grab some popcorn and put on your PJs — we’re watching K-Town on the big screen tonight.
“October Sky” (1999) | Several towns in eastern Tennessee stood in for Coalwood, WV during the filming of this classic Jake Gyllenhaal + Chris Cooper flick, including Knoxville. The scenes that are supposed to take place in Indianapolis — the national Science Fair and the movie theater Homer visits — were filmed here. Additionally, all scenes at Big Creek High School were actually captured at the Brownlow School Lofts.
“The Evil Dead” (1981) | The iconic horror film that spawned a decades-long franchise was filmed entirely in and around a cabin in Morristown, just under an hour from K-Town. The production process was famously just as cursed as the storyline; 13 crew members were forced to share sleeping quarters in the tiny, plumbing free-cabin, and the final few days of filming were so cold that they burned every piece of furniture on set to stay warm.
“The Last Movie Star” (2017) | One of Burt Reynolds’ final films took over the streets of Knoxville during filming, attracting a frenzy of fans trying to catch a glimpse of the legendary actor + costar Chevy Chase. See if you can spot scenes shot in the lobby of the Tennessee Theatre, in front of the Oliver Royale, at the former Long Branch Saloon (now LiterBoard), at Neyland Stadium, and inside McGhee Tyson Airport.
“Walking Tall” (1973) | The Scruffy City makes a brief appearance in this neo-noir vigilante action film made entirely in Tennessee. You might remember the 2004 remake of this movie best — which wasn’t filmed in the Volunteer State but, ironically, stars Johnny Knoxville.
“A Walk in the Spring Rain” (1970) | Golden Age legends Ingrid Bergman and Anthony Quinn came to town to film this movie about an unexpected love affair. Scenes were shot inside Ayres Hall at the University of Tennessee, as well as downtown on Gay Street.
What other movies do you know of that filmed in Knoxville? We’re reely interested.
