Indiana might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of iconic Hollywood movies, but the Hoosier State has quietly carved out a remarkable presence in cinematic history.
From small-town basketball triumphs to alien encounters under the Indiana sky, its landscapes, stories, and charm have provided the perfect backdrop for unforgettable films.
Here are some of the most iconic Hollywood movies made in Indiana.
1. Close Encounters of the Third Kind: When Muncie Met the Cosmos
Steven Spielberg’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind transformed Muncie, Indiana, into an otherworldly setting where the ordinary clashed with the extraordinary.
The iconic sci-fi epic follows Roy Neary, an Indiana electrical lineman whose life takes a surreal turn after encountering a UFO.
Fun Facts About This Classic
- Spielberg chose Indiana for its “middle of America” feel, creating a relatable backdrop for audiences.
- The iconic musical sequence where humans communicate with the aliens through five tones was revolutionary, blending technology and art in film.
- The film features François Truffaut, a legendary French director, in a rare acting role as a scientist.
2. Hoosiers: The Underdog Story That Defined a Generation
Hoosiers (1986) is the quintessential sports film, capturing the grit, heart, and community spirit of Indiana basketball.
Although the town of Hickory is fictional, its story is rooted in Indiana’s obsession with high school basketball.
Fun Facts About Hoosiers
- The movie was inspired by the true story of the Milan High School team that won the 1954 state championship against all odds.
- Dennis Hopper earned an Academy Award nomination for his role as the town drunk-turned-assistant coach, showcasing his powerful comeback performance.
- Many of the game scenes were filmed in the historic Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, adding authenticity to the basketball action.
3. A Christmas Story: Holiday Cheer in Hohman, Indiana
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Few holiday movies have captured the imagination quite like A Christmas Story (1983).
Set in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana, the film follows young Ralphie Parker as he dreams of owning a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas.
Fun Facts About This Holiday Classic
- The fictional town of Hohman was based on Hammond, Indiana, where author Jean Shepherd grew up.
- The infamous leg lamp, now a pop culture icon, was custom-made for the film and inspired by Shepherd’s stories.
- Ralphie’s house in Cleveland, Ohio, now operates as a museum dedicated to the movie, but the story itself remains deeply tied to Indiana roots.
4. Breaking Away: Bloomington’s Cycling Dream
Breaking Away (1979) is a heartfelt tale of working-class teens in Bloomington, Indiana, navigating life, identity, and ambition.
The film centers on Dave, a young man obsessed with Italian cycling, as he and his friends aim to prove themselves in the prestigious Little 500 bike race at Indiana University.
The Bloomington Backdrop
Bloomington’s picturesque charm shines in the movie, with the university campus and local quarries playing significant roles.
Did You Know?
The Little 500 bike race portrayed in the film is a real event held annually at Indiana University, showcasing the dedication and spirit of collegiate cyclists. The film’s authenticity helped it win the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
5. Rudy: The Ultimate Underdog Story
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Based on the true story of Rudy Ruettiger, the film follows his relentless pursuit of a dream to play football for Notre Dame, despite being told he lacks the talent and size.
Filming at Notre Dame
Notre Dame’s iconic campus adds an authentic touch, with scenes filmed inside the university stadium.
6. A History of Violence: A Dark Tale in Millbrook
David Cronenberg’s A History of Violence (2005) unfolds in the fictional Millbrook, Indiana, telling the story of a small-town diner owner who becomes a local hero after a violent act. As secrets from his past surface, his family’s lives spiral into chaos.
The film’s juxtaposition of Indiana’s tranquil setting with shocking violence keeps viewers on edge. It forces reflection on how far someone might go to protect their loved ones.
7. Winning: Speed, Dreams, and Love in Indianapolis
Winning (1969) follows Frank Capua, an aspiring racecar driver, as he balances his ambitions of conquering the Indianapolis 500 with the challenges of his personal relationships. Starring Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward, the movie delivers adrenaline and emotional depth in equal measure.
Indianapolis 500 on Screen
The film brings the excitement of the iconic race to life, with real footage from the event and authentic racing sequences.
8. Kinsey: Groundbreaking Research in Bloomington
Kinsey (2004) explores the life of Alfred Kinsey, a pioneering scientist from Indiana University in Bloomington. His groundbreaking research on human sexuality in the 1940s challenged societal norms and sparked national conversations.
The film captures the atmosphere of Indiana University, where Kinsey’s work began.
Although the movie wasn’t entirely filmed in Bloomington, the connection to the real events gives it authenticity. Liam Neeson’s portrayal of Kinsey highlights the struggles and triumphs of breaking new ground in science.
9. Madison: Small-Town Spirit on the Water
Madison (2001) tells the inspiring story of the 1971 hydroplane regatta in Madison, Indiana. This heartfelt drama follows a local man’s determination to win the race despite overwhelming odds. The film captures the resilience and pride of small-town America.
A True Underdog Tale
The real Madison Regatta remains a beloved event in Indiana, drawing hydroplane enthusiasts from all over.
10. The Music Man: Gary’s Hidden Connection
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The Music Man (1962) is a beloved musical about a con artist charming his way through small-town America.
11. Say It Isn’t So: A Quirky Comedy in Shelbyville
Say It Isn’t So (2001) brings comedic chaos to Shelbyville, Indiana, with its outrageous story of mistaken family ties. The film follows a young couple navigating a hilarious mix-up that leads to unexpected twists.
Indiana’s Quiet Charm
12. Hard Rain: A Flood of Action in Huntingburg
Hard Rain (1998) plunges Huntingburg, Indiana, into chaos with a heist gone wrong during a devastating flood.
Starring Morgan Freeman and Christian Slater, this action-packed thriller turns the quiet town into a battlefield of greed, survival, and unexpected alliances.
Bringing the Flood to Life
Filming in Huntingburg created a sense of authenticity that added to the movie’s intensity. The town was temporarily transformed with massive sets and water effects, immersing the cast and crew in the story’s tension.
13. Original Gangstas: Fighting for Justice in Gary
Original Gangstas (1996) turns the streets of Gary, Indiana, into the frontlines of a community’s fight against violence and corruption.
Starring action icons Fred Williamson, Pam Grier, and Jim Brown, the film tells the story of locals reclaiming their neighborhood from gang control.
Gary’s Real Struggles on Screen
The movie was filmed in Gary, bringing authenticity to its gritty storyline. It doesn’t shy away from highlighting the challenges the city faced during that era, giving the action sequences a deeper emotional weight.
14. In & Out: Laughter and Reflection in Greenleaf
In & Out (1997) takes viewers to Greenleaf, Indiana, where a small-town teacher, played by Kevin Kline, finds himself at the center of an unexpected media storm after being outed by a former student.
The movie balances humor with moments of reflection, creating a story that feels relatable and human.
15. Eight Men Out: Scandal in America’s Past
Eight Men Out (1988) retells the infamous Black Sox Scandal, where members of the 1919 Chicago White Sox were accused of throwing the World Series.
While primarily a Chicago story, parts of the film connect to Indiana’s rich baseball heritage, highlighting how the sport shaped the Midwest.
The Real Stories Behind the Film
16. A League of Their Own: Heart and Hustle in the Midwest
A League of Their Own (1992) is a beloved sports drama that celebrates the women who played professional baseball during World War II.
While the movie focuses on the Rockford Peaches, many scenes were filmed in Indiana, including at Bosse Field in Evansville, one of the oldest baseball stadiums still in use.
17. Natural Born Killers: Chaos on the Open Road
Natural Born Killers (1994) follows Mickey and Mallory, a couple on a violent crime spree across the country.
Parts of the film were shot in Indiana, which provided a stark and haunting backdrop for their chaotic journey.
Directed by Oliver Stone, the film blends satire and graphic storytelling, sparking debates about media sensationalism and violence.
18. Pearl Harbor: Indiana’s Contribution to a Wartime Epic
Pearl Harbor (2001) is a sweeping war drama that pays tribute to the lives affected by the events of December 7, 1941.
19. Rain Man: A Cross-Country Journey That Starts in Cincinnati
Rain Man (1988) begins with Charlie Babbitt (Tom Cruise) discovering his estranged brother, Raymond (Dustin Hoffman), an autistic savant.
The journey takes the brothers through Indiana as they travel across the Midwest.
The movie, which won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, captures both the physical and emotional landscapes of America.
20. Road to Perdition: A Dark Journey Across the Midwest
Road to Perdition (2002) tells the story of a father and son on the run during the Great Depression, as they navigate a dangerous world of crime and betrayal.
While much of the film unfolds in Illinois, parts were filmed in Indiana, showcasing the region’s rural beauty and historical feel.
Tom Hanks and Paul Newman deliver unforgettable performances in this visually stunning movie.
21. Some Came Running: Small-Town Drama at Its Best
Some Came Running (1958) is a classic drama set in a small Indiana town, exploring themes of love, regret, and redemption.
Starring Frank Sinatra, Shirley MacLaine, and Dean Martin, the film captures the complexities of small-town relationships and the longing for something more.
The movie’s setting feels deeply rooted in the Midwest, offering a raw and realistic look at life in post-war America.
22. Public Enemies: Dillinger’s Notorious Escape
Public Enemies (2009) tells the story of John Dillinger, one of America’s most infamous bank robbers, during his reign in the Great Depression. Crown Point, Indiana, plays a key role in the film as the site of Dillinger’s daring escape from jail, where he famously used a wooden gun to bluff his way out.
23. Transformers: Dark of the Moon: Action in Indiana
Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011) is famous for its massive battles and global stakes, but parts of the movie found their foundation in Indiana. The state offered key filming locations that supported the movie’s epic scale. This connection to a blockbuster franchise highlights Indiana as a quiet yet important player in the world of filmmaking.
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Final Thoughts
Indiana has played a quiet yet impactful role in Hollywood history. Its towns, landscapes, and rich stories have been the backdrop for some of the most memorable films.
From underdog sports dramas to gripping thrillers, these movies highlight the heart and charm of the Hoosier State. Indiana shows that even the smallest places can make a big impression on cinema, leaving a lasting legacy for audiences everywhere.
