Great Movies Set Along the Coast
- 1Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, Richard Dreyfuss
Considered a classic from director Steven Spielberg, this iconic horror film brings fear to the tranquil coastal town of Amity Island by introducing an enormous great white shark. Filmed primarily on Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts, the idyllic setting provides a stark contrast to the terror lurking beneath the waves. Featuring an unforgettable score by John Williams, Jaws profoundly impacted popular culture, shaping the way beachgoers perceive the dangers of the ocean's depths.
- 2George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, John C. Reilly
In this thrilling adaptation of Sebastian Junger's non-fiction book, audiences witness the harrowing tale of a swordfishing boat caught in a massive storm off the coast of Massachusetts. Centered around the fishing town of Gloucester, the film showcases the sea's powerful force and its impact on the tough New England community. Memorable performances by George Clooney and Mark Wahlberg add depth to this gripping true story, highlighting the courage and resilience of the fishermen who risk their lives in pursuit of their livelihood.
- 3Robert Pattinson, Willem Dafoe, Valeriia Karaman
Set on a remote New England island in the 1890s, this black-and-white psychological thriller delves into the descent into madness of two lighthouse keepers, portrayed by Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson. The rugged, stormy coastline serves as a backdrop for the growing tension between the two men, reflecting the unforgiving nature of their environment. Directed by Robert Eggers, The Lighthouse showcases the power of isolation and seemingly endless gray skies to create an eerie, unsettling atmosphere, making it a modern masterpiece.
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- 4Steve Carell, Toni Collette, Allison Janney
A heartfelt coming-of-age story, this indie gem follows the summer adventures of a socially awkward teen named Duncan, who finds refuge in a local water park while dealing with family turmoil. Set in a coastal New England town, the film is imbued with the nostalgic charm of seaside vacations and captures the essence of beach town life. Thanks to its ensemble cast, including Steve Carell and Sam Rockwell, The Way, Way Back delivers a poignant and humorous examination of the challenges and joys of growing up.
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- 5Julia Roberts, Annabeth Gish, Lili Taylor
Centered around a small Connecticut coastal town, this romantic comedy explores the lives and loves of three young women working in a local pizza parlor. As the characters navigate their relationships, the movie captures the spirit of the picturesque New England village of Mystic, showcasing its quaint streets, waterfront vistas, and community charm. With memorable performances by Julia Roberts, Annabeth Gish, and Lili Taylor, Mystic Pizza serves up laughs, heartbreak, and camaraderie, making it an enduring classic.
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- 6Peter Ustinov, Colin Blakely, Jane Birkin
Adapted from Agatha Christie's novel, this British whodunit follows the legendary detective Hercule Poirot as he unravels a complex murder mystery on an idyllic Mediterranean island. The stunning coastal scenery of Majorca, Spain, provides a luxurious backdrop for the glamorous cast of characters, their secrets, and the intricate web of intrigue they find themselves caught in. Directed by Guy Hamilton and starring Peter Ustinov, Evil Under the Sun delivers a sophisticated and enthralling tale of deception and intrigue.
- 7Bruce Willis, Ed Norton, Bill Murray
Wes Anderson's distinctive style shines in this whimsical tale of young love set on the fictitious island of New Penzance, which was actually filmed off the coast of Rhode Island. This heartfelt coming-of-age story follows two twelve-year-olds who embark on a romantic quest, causing their quirky families and tight-knit community to track them down. Featuring a star-studded cast including Bruce Willis, Bill Murray, and Frances McDormand, Moonrise Kingdom is a charming, visually stunning tribute to young love and the magic of childhood adventure.
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- 8Jim Carrey, Laura Linney, Noah Emmerich
In this thought-provoking comedy-drama, Jim Carrey stars as Truman Burbank, a man whose entire life has been broadcast as a TV show without his knowledge. The film's unique setting, a meticulously crafted idyllic coastal town known as Seahaven Island, serves as an integral character in the story and a symbol of Truman's artificial world. The use of real-life Seaside, Florida, as the primary filming location adds authenticity to the illusion, making The Truman Show a compelling and often disquieting exploration of reality and freedom.
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- 9Robert De Niro, Nick Nolte, Jessica Lange
This psychological thriller, featuring Robert De Niro, Nick Nolte, and Jessica Lange, revolves around a sadistic ex-convict seeking revenge on the lawyer who failed to keep him out of prison. Set in the coastal region of North Carolina, the film's title reflects both the geographical area and the dark, foreboding atmosphere created by director Martin Scorsese. Utilizing the serene beauty of the Outer Banks as a counterpoint to the tension-filled narrative, Cape Fear successfully evokes the duality of nature - both alluring and menacing.
More Cape Fear - 10Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy
This heartwarming British romantic comedy, centered around a young man who discovers he can time-travel, effortlessly combines fantasy and love in the coastal setting of Cornwall, England. As the protagonist, played by Domhnall Gleeson, navigates through life's challenges with his newfound ability, the picturesque seaside scenery provides a whimsical and charming backdrop. Directed by Richard Curtis and featuring Rachel McAdams, About Time is a captivating tale of love, family, and the importance of living in the present.
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- 11
Message in a Bottle
Kevin Costner, Robin Wright, Paul NewmanBased on Nicholas Sparks' bestselling novel, this romantic drama explores the power of love, loss, and redemption as Theresa, played by Robin Wright, embarks on a quest to find the author of a heartfelt message she discovers in a bottle washed ashore. With the rugged beauty of the Outer Banks serving as a stunning backdrop, audiences follow Theresa's journey to the picturesque coastal town of Rodanthe, North Carolina, where she ultimately encounters Garret, portrayed by Kevin Costner. Director Luis Mandoki captures the essence of the novel's emotional intensity, as well as the breathtaking coastal landscapes, making Message in a Bottle a romantic and poignant experience.
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- 12Tobey Maguire, Charlize Theron, Delroy Lindo
Based on John Irving's acclaimed novel, this poignant coming-of-age drama follows the life of Homer Wells, a young man raised in an orphanage who embarks on a journey of self-discovery along the coast of Maine. As he becomes involved in the lives of the diverse characters he encounters, the film reveals the beauty and complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of a picturesque New England landscape. Directed by Lasse Hallström and featuring an Oscar-winning performance by Michael Caine, The Cider House Rules is a thought-provoking exploration of morality, love, and the search for a sense of belonging.
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- 13Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst
In this visually stunning and emotionally complex film, director Michel Gondry explores the nature of love, memory, and self-discovery through an inventive narrative centered on a man, played by Jim Carrey, attempting to erase his memories of a failed relationship. The picturesque Long Island coastline provides the perfect setting for the story's unfolding - its beauty reflecting both the initial joy of love and the underlying melancholy of loss. Featuring an unforgettable performance by Kate Winslet, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a cinematic masterpiece that challenges traditional boundaries and conventions.
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- 14Steve Carell, Juliette Binoche, Dane Cook
This endearing dramedy, starring Steve Carell, explores the ups and downs of love and family life within the picturesque coastal setting of Rhode Island. As widower Dan Burns navigates the complexities of raising his daughters and finding love unexpectedly with his brother's girlfriend, the film showcases the charm of small-town New England life. With superb performances from a stellar ensemble cast and a perfect blend of humor and heart, Dan in Real Life is a delightful ode to the importance of family and the power of love.
- 15Kathy Bates, Jennifer Jason Leigh, David Strathairn
In this gripping adaptation of Stephen King's novel, Kathy Bates delivers a powerful performance as the titular character, a housekeeper accused of murdering her employer in a small coastal town in Maine. The rugged coastline and its isolation play a significant role in the film, heightening the sense of unease and intrigue as the mystery unfolds. Directed by Taylor Hackford, Dolores Claiborne is a compelling thriller that showcases the darker side of humanity against the backdrop of the seemingly serene New England scenery.
- 16Cher, Winona Ryder, Bob Hoskins
This quirky coming-of-age dramedy, set in the early 1960s, follows the unconventional lives of a single mother (Cher) and her two daughters, portrayed by Winona Ryder and Christina Ricci. The New England coastal town that serves as the film's backdrop adds a sense of nostalgic charm, while also highlighting the feelings of entrapment and longing for escape shared by many small-town residents. With its mixture of humor, romance, and drama, Mermaids is a memorable snapshot of family life, love, and self-discovery.
- 17Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn, William Holden
This timeless romantic comedy, directed by Billy Wilder and starring Audrey Hepburn, Humphrey Bogart, and William Holden, tells the story of a chauffeur's daughter caught in a love triangle with the two wealthy brothers whose family employs her father. The coastal setting of Long Island's gold coast serves as a lush and luxurious backdrop, highlighting the stark contrast between Sabrina's humble beginnings and the opulent world into which she is drawn. A classic tale of love, class struggle, and transformation, the original Sabrina remains an enduring favorite among film enthusiasts.
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- 18
Blue Miracle
Dana Wheeler-Nicholson, Dennis Quaid, Bruce McGillBased on a true story, this inspiring drama follows the improbable journey of a cash-strapped Mexican orphanage's caretaker who teams up with a washed-up boat captain to compete in the world's biggest fishing tournament. Set against the stunning backdrop of the coast of Cabo San Lucas, the film captures the vibrant spirit of the Baja California peninsula while also showcasing the power of unity and determination in overcoming adversity. Featuring heartfelt performances by Dennis Quaid and Jimmy Gonzales, Blue Miracle is an uplifting tale that emphasizes the importance of hope, compassion, and perseverance.
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- 19Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley
In Martin Scorsese's chilling psychological thriller, Leonardo DiCaprio portrays a U.S. Marshal investigating the disappearance of a patient from a remote psychiatric facility located on the titular island off the coast of Massachusetts. The imposing coastal landscapes and stormy seas serve as a fitting metaphor for the turbulent mental state of the protagonist, amplifying the film's sense of tension and unease. Combining masterful storytelling with striking visuals, Shutter Island is an engrossing, haunting exploration of the depths of human darkness.
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- 20Tim Curry, Seth Green, John Ritter
- 21Pierce Brosnan, Ewan McGregor, Kim Cattrall
In this political thriller, Ewan McGregor stars as a writer hired to pen the memoir of a former British Prime Minister, played by Pierce Brosnan, only to find himself drawn into a web of intrigue and danger. Set on the remote Martha's Vineyard coastline, the film's isolated setting serves as an ideal stage for the unfolding mystery, evoking an air of suspense and uncertainty. Directed by Roman Polanski, The Ghost Writer is a tightly woven tale that combines elements of espionage, politics, and personal betrayal to create a thoroughly engaging cinematic experience.
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- 22Sophie Lowe, Morgan Saylor, June Squibb
This darkly comedic neo-noir thriller is set in the fictional coastal town of Easter Cove, Maine, where two sisters become entangled in local crime after their mother's death. The film's atmospheric backdrop - complete with foggy harbors, historical homes, and a rugged coastline - enhances its rustic charm and heightens the sense of danger lurking beneath the surface of small-town life. With standout performances from its female-led cast, Blow the Man Down is a refreshingly original take on the crime genre that showcases the complexities of sisterhood, morality, and survival.
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- 23Toni Collette, Bill Hunter, Rachel Griffiths
This Australian dramedy stars Toni Collette in her breakout role as Muriel, a socially awkward young woman obsessed with finding love and staging the perfect wedding. Set in the seaside resort town of Porpoise Spit, the film's coastal backdrop provides an idyllic setting for Muriel's journey of self-discovery, as she overcomes personal obstacles and learns to embrace her true self. With a blend of humor, heartache, and a memorable soundtrack, Muriel's Wedding is a quirky, endearing tale of friendship and personal growth.
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- 24John Cusack, Demi Moore, Joel Murray
This breezy '80s comedy follows a group of teens who spend a wild summer vacation on the coast of Nantucket, Massachusetts. As they engage in various antics and misadventures, the picturesque island setting provides a beautiful and carefree backdrop that encapsulates the spirit of youthful summer escapades. Featuring Demi Moore and John Cusack, One Crazy Summer captures the essence of the era, filled with hilarity, romance, and perfectly nostalgic vibes.
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- 25Sissy Spacek, Tom Wilkinson, Nick Stahl
Set in a small coastal town in Maine, this intense drama delves into the lives of a couple grappling with the tragic loss of their son, exploring themes of grief, revenge, and the complexities of human relationships. The rugged, serene beauty of the New England coastline serves as a fitting backdrop for the film's deeply emotional narrative and powerful performances by Sissy Spacek, Tom Wilkinson, and Marisa Tomei. Directed by Todd Field, In the Bedroom is a haunting study of loss and the impact of tragedy on the human psyche.
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- 26Catherine McCormack, Sarah Polley, Sean Penn
In this psychological thriller, based on Anita Shreve's novel, two seemingly unrelated narratives are intertwined: one involving a present-day photographer investigating a centuries-old murder, and the other chronicling the events leading up to the crime in 1873. The coastal setting of the Isles of Shoals, off the coast of New Hampshire, provides a haunting and mysterious backdrop for both stories, with its rugged beauty contributing to the film's atmospheric tension. Featuring standout performances from Sean Penn, Sarah Polley, and Elizabeth Hurley, The Weight of Water is a captivating exploration of truth, history, and the depths of human emotion.
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- 27Burt Lancaster, Susan Sarandon, Kate Reid
Directed by Louis Malle, this crime drama stars Burt Lancaster as an aging gangster attempting to navigate the changing landscape of Atlantic City, New Jersey. The film's coastal setting plays a significant role in the narrative, illustrating the decline of the once-thriving seaside resort and its transformation into a shadow of its former glory. Nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Atlantic City offers a gritty, compelling portrait of life on the edge of society and the power of redemption.
- 28Macaulay Culkin, Elijah Wood, Wendy Crewson
This psychological thriller stars Macaulay Culkin as an eerily sinister child who manipulates his visiting cousin, played by Elijah Wood, into joining him in a series of increasingly dangerous acts. Set along the rocky coastline of Maine, the film's picturesque setting adds an underlying sense of serenity that contrasts sharply with the dark events unfolding on screen. The Good Son masterfully plays on the innocence of childhood, revealing the disturbing potential for evil that can lurk beneath the surface.
More The Good Son - 29Harrison Ford, Julia Ormond, Greg Kinnear
This modern adaptation of the 1954 classic stars Julia Ormond, Harrison Ford, and Greg Kinnear in an updated version of the beloved romantic comedy. Though the film retains the original's lavish Long Island coastal setting, the updated story offers a fresh perspective on love, class struggle, and personal transformation. With its charming performances and beautiful scenery, the 1995 Sabrina offers a nostalgic experience for fans of the original while appealing to a new generation of romantics.
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- 30Alec Baldwin, William H. Macy, Charles Durning
In this satirical comedy, a Hollywood film crew descends upon the small coastal town of Waterford, Vermont, turning the community upside down with their chaotic production. The picturesque New England setting serves as a perfect backdrop for the film's witty exploration of the clash between small-town values and Hollywood excess. Written and directed by David Mamet, State and Main features an ensemble cast including William H. Macy, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Philip Seymour Hoffman, and offers a humorous, insightful look at the often surreal world of filmmaking.
