Florida, with its vibrant landscapes and unique atmosphere, has often been a backdrop for films that blend reality with the fantastical. This curated list of 10 fantasy films set in Florida offers viewers a chance to escape into magical worlds, where the Sunshine State's charm enhances the storytelling. From whimsical adventures to dark enchantments, these films showcase Florida's versatility as a setting for fantasy narratives, providing a delightful escape for fans of the genre.
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Description: This Tim Burton classic features a fantastical character with scissors for hands, living in an idealized suburban Florida, blending dark fantasy with a touch of romance.
Fact: The film's pastel-colored houses were inspired by a neighborhood in Florida, and the mansion was a set built in a studio.
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The Rocketeer (1991)
Description: Although not set in Florida, the film's climax takes place in a fictional Florida air show, adding a touch of fantasy to the action-adventure.
Fact: The film's director, Joe Johnston, was inspired by the pulp adventure serials of the 1930s and 40s.
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The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)
Description: While set in Africa, the film's premise of man-eating lions has a fantastical element, and some scenes were shot in Florida for its diverse landscapes.
Fact: The film was based on real events, but the portrayal of the lions was exaggerated for dramatic effect.
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The Truman Show (1998)
Description: While not traditional fantasy, the film's premise of a man living in a constructed reality set in a Florida town has a surreal, almost magical quality.
Fact: The entire town of Seahaven was built on a set in Florida, and the film's concept has been widely discussed for its philosophical implications.
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The Waterboy (1998)
Description: This comedy features a fantastical transformation of a waterboy into a football star, with Florida's swamps and heat playing a key role in the story.
Fact: Adam Sandler's character, Bobby Boucher, was inspired by a real-life waterboy from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
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The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)
Description: This film, set in Savannah, Georgia, includes scenes in Florida, where the mystical caddie Bagger Vance imparts wisdom, blending sports with fantasy.
Fact: The character of Bagger Vance was inspired by the Hindu god Krishna, who serves as a guide in the Bhagavad Gita.
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The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)
Description: Although primarily set in Genovia, the film includes scenes in Florida, where Mia's grandmother has a home, adding a touch of fantasy to the royal setting.
Fact: The film was shot in Florida for the scenes involving the grandmother's mansion, which was actually a private estate.
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The Florida Project (2017)
Description: While not strictly fantasy, this film captures the magical innocence of childhood in the shadow of Disney World, creating a whimsical, almost fairy-tale-like atmosphere.
Fact: The film was shot in a real motel near Disney World, and the child actors were given free rein to improvise much of their dialogue.
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The Curse of the Komodo (2004)
Description: This B-movie features giant Komodo dragons terrorizing a Florida town, blending creature feature with fantasy elements.
Fact: The film was shot in Florida, utilizing its natural settings to enhance the monster movie feel.
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Cocoon (1985)
Description: This sci-fi fantasy involves elderly residents of a Florida retirement community discovering an alien pool that rejuvenates them, blending fantasy with themes of aging.
Fact: The film was shot in St. Petersburg, Florida, and the pool scenes were filmed in a real community pool.
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