St. Helens, Oregon: Discover Movies Filmed Here

嘿，影迷们！Ever wondered where some of your favorite movies were filmed? Well, let's take a trip to the charming town of St. Helens, Oregon! This picturesque location has served as the backdrop for several well-known films, adding to its allure and attracting movie buffs from all over. Join me as we explore the movies filmed in St. Helens, Oregon, and uncover what makes this town such a sought-after filming destination.

Discovering the Magic of St. Helens

St. Helens, Oregon, is a gem nestled along the Columbia River. With its historic downtown, scenic waterfront, and friendly atmosphere, it's no wonder filmmakers have been drawn to this location. The town's unique blend of small-town charm and natural beauty creates an ideal setting for various movie genres, from heartwarming family films to thrilling adventures. The architecture and landscapes provide a versatile canvas, allowing directors to bring their visions to life. It is easy to see why St. Helens is such a popular filming location.

"Twilight" Saga: A Supernatural Sensation

One of the most iconic movies filmed in St. Helens is none other than the "Twilight" saga. This series of films, based on the novels by Stephenie Meyer, captured the hearts of millions worldwide. St. Helens served as a key location for the first film, "Twilight," released in 2008. The town's quaint streets and buildings were transformed into the fictional town of Forks, Washington, where the story unfolds. Several locations in St. Helens were used, including the historic courthouse, which served as the exterior of Forks High School. The local businesses also played a part, with many being temporarily converted to resemble establishments in Forks.

The impact of "Twilight" on St. Helens has been significant. The town has become a pilgrimage site for fans of the series, who come to visit the filming locations and immerse themselves in the world of Bella Swan and Edward Cullen. Local businesses have capitalized on this tourism, offering "Twilight"-themed tours, merchandise, and events. The enduring popularity of the films continues to bring visitors to St. Helens, boosting the local economy and putting the town on the map as a must-see destination for movie lovers.

"Halloweentown": A Spooky Delight

Another beloved movie filmed in St. Helens is "Halloweentown". This Disney Channel original movie, released in 1998, has become a Halloween classic. St. Helens was chosen as the primary filming location due to its charming and slightly eerie atmosphere, which perfectly captures the spirit of the film. The town's central square was transformed into the magical Halloweentown, complete with Halloween decorations, quirky shops, and a giant jack-o'-lantern.

Each year, St. Helens celebrates its connection to "Halloweentown" with a month-long Halloween festival. The town's square is decorated to resemble the movie set, and various events are held, including costume contests, pumpkin carvings, and movie screenings. The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year, turning St. Helens into a real-life Halloweentown. This celebration not only brings joy and entertainment to the community but also provides a significant boost to local businesses, making "Halloweentown" a cherished part of St. Helens' identity.

"The Ring Two": A Horror Sequel

For those who enjoy a good scare, "The Ring Two" also features scenes filmed in St. Helens. This horror sequel, released in 2005, continues the terrifying story of Samara and her cursed videotape. While much of the film was shot in other locations, St. Helens provided some of the eerie backdrops that added to the movie's suspenseful atmosphere. The use of St. Helens in "The Ring Two" demonstrates the town's versatility as a filming location, capable of accommodating various genres, including horror. The dark and mysterious settings available in and around St. Helens make it an ideal choice for filmmakers looking to create a chilling and unsettling atmosphere. While "The Ring Two" may not be as widely celebrated in St. Helens as "Twilight" or "Halloweentown," it remains a notable part of the town's filmography.

Other Notable Films and Productions

Besides the movies mentioned above, St. Helens has also hosted filming for other productions, including commercials, TV shows, and independent films. The town's appeal lies in its ability to provide a variety of settings, from urban landscapes to natural scenery. This versatility makes it an attractive option for filmmakers with diverse creative visions. Whether it's a period piece requiring historic architecture or a modern story needing a small-town vibe, St. Helens can adapt to fit the needs of the production. The local community is also known for its support of the film industry, making St. Helens a welcoming and accommodating place to shoot.

The Economic Impact of Filming in St. Helens

The film industry has brought significant economic benefits to St. Helens. When a movie is filmed in town, it creates jobs for local residents, including actors, crew members, and extras. Additionally, the production companies often rent local businesses and properties, providing income to the owners. The influx of cast and crew also boosts the local economy through spending on accommodations, food, and other services. The long-term impact of having a movie filmed in St. Helens can be even greater. As seen with "Twilight" and "Halloweentown," the town can become a tourist destination, attracting fans who want to see the filming locations. This tourism can generate revenue for local businesses and help to sustain the town's economy. St. Helens has embraced its role as a filming location, recognizing the value it brings to the community.

Supporting Local Businesses

Local businesses in St. Helens have benefited significantly from the film industry. During filming, production companies often use local shops and restaurants, providing them with a boost in sales. Additionally, the increased tourism that follows the release of a movie can lead to a sustained increase in business. Many businesses have adapted to cater to movie fans, offering themed products and services. For example, some restaurants offer "Twilight"-inspired menu items, while shops sell "Halloweentown" merchandise. This entrepreneurial spirit has helped to create a thriving local economy that is closely tied to the film industry. The support of the community is essential for maintaining St. Helens' status as a premier filming location.

Creating Job Opportunities

The film industry provides a range of job opportunities for the residents of St. Helens. These jobs include both temporary positions during filming and more permanent roles in tourism and related industries. Local residents can work as extras in movies, providing them with a unique and exciting experience. Additionally, there are opportunities for skilled workers, such as carpenters, electricians, and caterers, to work on film sets. The tourism industry also creates jobs in hotels, restaurants, and tour companies. The economic benefits of these job opportunities can have a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families in St. Helens. By supporting the film industry, the town is investing in its future and creating a more prosperous community.

Visiting St. Helens: A Movie Lover's Guide

If you're a movie lover planning a visit to St. Helens, there are several must-see locations. Start with the historic courthouse, which served as the exterior of Forks High School in "Twilight." Then, head to the town's central square, which was transformed into Halloweentown for the Disney movie. Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the scenic views that have attracted filmmakers for years. Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the movies filmed in St. Helens and the town's history. Be sure to check out the local shops and restaurants, many of which offer movie-themed products and services. With its charming atmosphere and rich film history, St. Helens is a destination that movie lovers will not want to miss. Have fun visiting St. Helens!

Planning Your Trip

When planning your trip to St. Helens, consider the time of year. The annual Halloweentown celebration in October is a popular event, but the town can be crowded. If you prefer a quieter experience, visit during the spring or summer. There are several hotels and bed and breakfasts in and around St. Helens, providing a range of accommodation options. Be sure to book in advance, especially if you're visiting during a peak season. Getting to St. Helens is easy, as it's located just a short drive from Portland. You can rent a car or take a shuttle from the airport. Once you're in town, you can explore the filming locations on foot or by car. Plan your itinerary to include the must-see locations and allow time for exploring the town's charming shops and restaurants.

Must-See Filming Locations

• The Historic Courthouse: As mentioned earlier, this building served as the exterior of Forks High School in "Twilight." It's a great photo opportunity for fans of the series.
• The Town Square: This is where Halloweentown comes to life each October. Even if you're not visiting during the festival, you can still see the decorations and imagine the magic of the movie.
• The Waterfront: Take a walk along the Columbia River and enjoy the scenic views that have attracted filmmakers to St. Helens. There are several parks and viewpoints where you can relax and take in the scenery.
• Local Shops and Restaurants: Many businesses in St. Helens offer movie-themed products and services. Be sure to check them out and support the local economy.

Conclusion

St. Helens, Oregon, is a town with a rich film history. From the supernatural romance of "Twilight" to the spooky fun of "Halloweentown," this charming town has served as the backdrop for several beloved movies. The film industry has brought significant economic benefits to St. Helens, creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and attracting tourism. If you're a movie lover, a visit to St. Helens is a must. Explore the filming locations, immerse yourself in the town's atmosphere, and discover the magic that has drawn filmmakers to this picturesque destination. St. Helens is more than just a filming location; it's a community that has embraced its role in the movie industry and created a unique and welcoming environment for visitors. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the movies in St. Helens, Oregon! Guys, it's time to be part of the St. Helens magic!