Favorite Michigan Movies

Sylvia Dulaney: A writer and producer of educational films, Syd learned film editing in NYC assisting a Woodstock cameraman. Raised in a family so ordinary, they were randomly selected as a “Nielson family” to rate TV shows in the late 1950s. She likes movies and loves Michigan.

Thursdays, 2:00-4:00 pm. February 5, 12, 19, 26. Bohm Theatre. Class size unlimited. There is a $10 charge to help cover the cost of the theatre rental.

In 2025, Bridge Magazine had a contest to determine the most popular Michigan movies. These were movies that were placed in Michigan, and in some cases involved Michigan people and events. Out of 30 possible movies, we will watch an assortment. A great movie, Anatomy of a Murder was not chosen because it is two hours and 45 minutes long. You will receive a list of all 30 movies considered along with a short description of each. How many have you seen?

The assortment we will watch is:

A true story: Jerry and Marge Go Large, a Michigan couple beat the lottery and use their winnings to help their small town. Stars Bryan Cranston and Annette Bening. Heartwarming and true. 2022, 1 hr 36 min.

A beautifully filmed gangster story: Road to Perdition starring Tom Hanks and Paul Newman in his last dramatic role. Directed by Sam Mendes. Michigan weather scenes and excellent camera work explore regret and redemption. 2002, 1 hr 57 min. “Every father is a hero to his son.”

A love story: Somewhere in Time starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour. Filmed on Mackinac Island with lots of views of the hotel and Michigan scenery. 1980, 1 hr 43 min.

A goofy comedy: Escanaba in da Moonlight written, directed and starring Michigan native Jeff Daniels. He lives in Chelsea, Michigan, and operates the Purple Rose theater. Filmed on UP locations, a humorous look at deer hunting cultural traditions. 2001, 1 hr 32 min.