There’s no place like home and Kansas is definitely a favorite among hit moviemakers. Kansas is often referenced in hit movies, but the references do not always give a good impression of the small state. There are three films in particular that reference Kansas that are well worth the watch.
Three Hit Movies that Reference Kansas
“The Wizard of Oz”- This is an all-time classic movie that children and adults enjoy watching. The movie begins in a dusty, dismal Kansas and Dorothy wants out. Dorothy runs away from home but soon returns when a cyclone heads her way. She is hit in the head and takes a fantasy trip through all the wonderful things that she could have imagined. When she lands in the magical “Land of Oz”, she says, “I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore”, to her dog Toto. By the time Dorothy and Toto make their way back to Kansas, she realizes “there’s no place like home” and Kansas is suddenly a bright and beautiful place.
“Paper Moon”- Tatum O’Neal and her father Ryan starred in this black and white classic movie that makes reference to several of the main towns and cities in the state of Kansas. The movie was filmed in Kansas as well, making it a realistic view of the state. The pair play con artists who are looking for their next victim and they do not discriminate. Everyone is a possible victim. Their flim flam scams help them bond as they learn that they are indeed father and daughter.
“The Day After”- This movie hits home, literally. “The Day After” is a movie about a nuclear disaster and the disaster occurs in Kansas City, Missouri. The action moves to Lawrence, Kansas and deals with the aftermath of the disaster. It is a grim scene to consider and could possibly be a real life situation if a nuclear warhead was to be released.
Kansas seems to be the state for great movies. All of these movies make for great entertainment. It is funny, whimsical and earth shattering. Who could ask more from a state than that? Kansas is a small state that helps moviemakers bring their ideas to life.