One hundred years after Utah made its film debut, the Utah Film Commission, which is also celebrating 50 years this year, has unveiled the “100 Years of Film & Television” exhibit at the Utah State Capitol.
From Jan. 11 through the end of 2024, the 4th floor of the Utah State Capitol building will host an exhibit highlighting some of the thousands of productions that have been filmed in Utah, featuring the people and places that have brought these films and television shows to life over the last century. The exhibit was inspired by James V. D’Arc’s book, “When Hollywood Came to Utah.”
“Over the last century, our landscapes have sparked the imaginations of some of the greatest storytellers in the world and have also inspired many to see these places for themselves,” said Utah Film Commission Director Virginia Pearce. “The 2024 celebration is an opportunity for all of us to celebrate not only the iconic film and television moments that were made in Utah but the people and places behind those moments.”
The Utah Film Commission is also curating a traveling extension of the exhibit in collaboration with the Utah Division of Arts and Museums to be shown around the state and soon will be unveiling a permanent, immersive experience; the Utah Historic Film Trail, with markers at memorable locations seen on the big and small screens across the state. Details on 100 Years of Utah Film & Television events, exhibits and special screenings can be found here.
Visitors have always been drawn to Utah’s image in film and television, and the economic impact of this has been immense. A 2023 survey indicates that 37% of visitors cite film and/or television among the primary motivators in selecting Utah as a destination. Over the last 10 years, those visitors have spent an estimated $6 billion in our state.
Thousands of productions have been filmed in Utah, including “Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid,” “Thelma & Louise,” and “127 Hours,” to name only a few. Many episodic series have also been filmed in Utah, such as “Yellowstone,” “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series,” and “Westworld.” From Salt Lake City to rural areas all over the state, Utah has greatly benefited from the film and television industry both culturally and economically.
Photos by Andrea David / @filmtourismus
“Utah’s splendor is undeniable, and its century-long journey in film is a testament to that. Unparalleled scenery, breathtaking landscapes, and a vibrant creative community are what drew me to this region. It was that beauty alone that created the foundation of my movie,” said Hollywood icon Kevin Costner, who has filmed numerous projects in Utah, including the upcoming, multi-part film “Horizon: An American Saga.”