There have been some insanely epic films shot in Colorado.
Sure, it’s become a hotspot since it legalized recreational marijuana in 2012. But the allure and draw to this state are thanks to a diverse landscape, seasonal highs and lows, and overall beautiful imagery tucked into every corner.
From Aspen’s ski trails to Durango’s desert landscape to Denver’s skyline, this state is rich in more ways than one when it comes to epic scenery and possibility. That’s why it should be no surprise that so many movies are created there.
Since the list is so long, we’re only covering major blockbusters from 1991 onwards. So, let’s dive in and get started.
Thelma & Louise (1991)
Location: Gateway, Bedrock
Dubbed “The Last Great Film About Women” by The Atlantic, Thelma and Louise go beyond a story about two women who are best friends and instead contribute to larger conversations about female bonds, societal roles, and liberation. It’s even inspired its own catchphrase when two people embark on something deadly or life-changing (Let’s Thelma and Louise it!).
City Slickers (1991)
Location: Durango
City Slickers is a slap-stick comedy that transports three businessmen into the Wild West and forces them to face the uncomfortable realities of their lives while reinforcing traditional male bonding relationships funnily.
Dumb and Dumber (1994)
Location: Aspen, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Estes Park
Described by Time as genius toilet humor, Dumb and Dumber centers on Harry and Lloyd’s journey to Colorado in pursuit of Mary. Making us cringe every time, this movie’s absurdity, fantastical, and impossibility are what make it the epitome of comedy gold.
Independence Day (1996)
Location: Peterson Airforce Base
A breakthrough in CGI special effects, Independence Day set the tone for big action flicks that followed and quickly emerged as a beloved cult classic from the 90s movie scene.
Bowling for Columbine (2002)
Location: Denver, Littleton
Exploring how American patriotic rhetoric is in tandem with mass school shootings, gun deaths, and nationwide violence, Bowling for Columbine sent shock waves throughout the world with its analysis of society and culture in the states.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005)
Location: Glenwood Canyon
Known for the infamous pairing of two of Hollywood’s hottest stars, the insane kitchen scene (guess they found a general contractor in Colorado by the end), and a tantalizing finale that makes us want more, Mr. & Mrs. Smith is a guilty pleasure for many.
Blades of Glory (2007)
Location: Denver — Pepsi Center
Blades of Glory is a comedy that pushes two rivals together to form the first male figure skating team that competes on the world stage and challenges the sport’s rules.
The Lone Ranger (2013)
Location: Creede
A Disney take on an old Western from the middle of the 20th century, The Lone Ranger follows a modern retelling of The Masked Man and Tonto into its own world of national myths, as explained in Roger Ebert’s 3.5 star review.
The Hateful Eight (2015)
Location: Telluride
Bringing together eight strangers in the dead of winter, The Hateful Eight is a Tarantino classic filled with intentional artistry, stark scene shifts, and an ending that sends tingly pings of shock and astonishment throughout the audience’s body.
Final Thoughts
If this list tells us anything it’s that Colorado is the place to make an epic movie.
From harrowing, transformative films like Thelma and Louise to eccentric showstoppers like The Hateful Eight, Colorado has a lot to be proud of.
With endless filming potential in sight, it begs the question — what’s the next epic film we’ll see from this state?
