9 Must-See Movies That Prove Florida Is the Wildest State in America

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Florida has long been a popular location for filmmakers. Classic movies like Scarface, Cocoon, and Wild Things were all filmed in the state, creating some truly memorable scenes. Let’s explore some of the most famous films set in Florida.

Every state in the U.S. has its own special character, but some are more visually striking on film than others. Florida, in particular, is incredibly cinematic, lending a unique atmosphere to movies filmed there.

Films made in Florida cleverly use the state’s unique settings, creating a lasting connection between the movies and the image of Florida itself.

Body Heat

Directed By Lawrence Kasdan; Starring Kathleen Turner, William Hurt, & More; Released In 1981

Florida’s hot and humid weather often provides the perfect backdrop for steamy movies, like the classic 1980s thriller Body Heat. The film centers around a passionate affair between William Hurt and Kathleen Turner’s characters, a relationship that sparks jealousy from her husband. This love triangle quickly spirals into a web of murder and deceit.

The film Body Heat was filmed in Palm Beach County, Florida, and this location plays a big part in the movie’s atmosphere. The humid, swampy setting mirrors the intense attraction between the main characters. Essentially, Body Heat paved the way for films like Wild Things that became popular in the 1990s.

Scarface

Directed By Brian De Palma; Starring Al Pacino, Michelle Pfeiffer, & More; Released In 1983

Brian De Palma’s Scarface is a reimagining of the 1932 Howard Hawks film. De Palma updated the story by moving the setting from Chicago to Miami and changing the main character, Tony, from Italian to Cuban. This made Al Pacino’s portrayal of Tony Montana particularly impactful for audiences in the early 1980s, and the film became closely associated with South Florida.

The Cuban community in Miami wasn’t happy with the making of the film, and because of local protests, most of it was actually filmed in Los Angeles. Despite this, Scarface brilliantly portrays the city’s atmosphere and remains one of the greatest crime movies ever made.

Cocoon

Directed By Ron Howard; Starring Don Ameche, Wilford Brimley, Steve Guttenberg, & Many More; Released In 1985

Ron Howard’s Cocoon is a well-loved sci-fi comedy from the 1980s. The story takes place in St. Petersburg, Florida, and centers on a group of seniors who regain their youth and energy after swimming in a pool with a special alien energy. The film famously concludes with these characters departing Earth to join the aliens on their home planet, where they will live forever, experiencing neither aging nor death.

This heartwarming film beautifully explores aging, with a unique twist: the characters find a way to overcome its challenges. Florida plays a vital role throughout the entire movie, influencing everything from what the characters wear to how they act, and ultimately providing the setting for the film’s exciting conclusion at sea.

Bad Boys

Directed By Michael Bay; Starring Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, & More; Released In 1995

Many believe Bad Boys ushered in a new age of action films. It marked Michael Bay’s first time directing, solidified Jerry Bruckheimer’s reputation as a top blockbuster producer, and proved Will Smith could lead an action movie. The film’s success was also heavily tied to its Florida setting.

Will Smith and Martin Lawrence star as detectives working narcotics in Miami. Originally, the movie was going to be set in New York City, but changing the location to Florida was crucial in establishing Bad Boys‘ unique style and atmosphere. The vibrant look and feel of Florida became a key part of the film’s visuals and overall aesthetic, going beyond just the setting.

The Birdcage

Directed By Mike Nichols; Starring Robin Williams, Nathan Lane, Calista Flockhart, & More; Released In 1996

The hilarious comedy of The Birdcage centers around the collision of different lifestyles and ways of life. While the film is mainly funny because of its exploration of sexuality, this theme is also reflected in where the story takes place. The very traditional characters played by Gene Hackman and Diane Lane feel completely out of place in the colorful and energetic city of Miami.

The film The Birdcage really showcases the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene in Miami. Robin Williams and Nathan Lane’s characters feel authentically like locals, and the movie’s unique style wouldn’t have been the same if it hadn’t been set in Florida. The setting is emphasized through shots of famous Miami landmarks, like the Carlyle Hotel on Miami Beach.

Flipper

Directed By Alan Shapiro; Starring Elijah Wood, Isaac Hayes, & More; Released In 1996

Anyone who grew up in the ’90s likely remembers the exciting scene in Flipper where the dolphin rescues Elijah Wood’s character. The movie perfectly embodies a familiar story: an average American kid achieving something special. And with a dolphin as the star, it makes perfect sense that Flipper is set in Florida.

It’s funny that the movie was actually filmed in the Bahamas, but it looks convincingly like Florida’s Gold Coast. Ultimately, the movie’s setting is what mattered most – it inspired a whole generation of children to dream of moving to Florida and making friends with dolphins!

There’s Something About Mary

Directed By The Farrelly Brothers; Starring Cameron Diaz, Ben Stiller, Matt Dillon, & More; Released In 1998

There’s Something About Mary really defines the over-the-top comedy style of the 1990s. It’s full of moments that would be considered shocking or impossible to make today, and that’s a big reason why it’s so memorable. The film’s setting in Florida also contributes to its classic status.

Miami really shines in this film. Shot entirely on location, it perfectly captures the city’s atmosphere, just like other movies known for their settings. More than 25 years later, it’s also a fascinating look back at Miami as it was during that specific era.

Wild Things

Directed By John McNaughton; Starring Neve Campbell, Denise Richards, Matt Dillon, Kevin Bacon, & More; Released In 1998

We previously noted that the film Body Heat paved the way for Wild Things, but it’s more accurate to say Wild Things took things much further. It significantly increased both the sexual content and the complexity of the plot compared to the earlier film. The setting – specifically the Miami suburbs and the Everglades – are crucial to the story, and the film’s playful, overtly masculine perspective wouldn’t have worked as well in a different, less warm environment.

Wild Things is deliberately provocative and over-the-top, with a playfully exaggerated style. The movie’s steamy plot is heightened by its vibrant setting. Even when the story turns serious, it remains a visually striking and memorable film from the ’90s, remembered for more than just its scandalous content. Beyond the sensationalism, Wild Things is simply a beautifully made movie.

Miami Vice

Directed by Michael Mann; Starring Colin Farrell, Jamie Foxx, & More; Released In 2006

The 2006 film Miami Vice was a full-circle moment for pop culture. Director Michael Mann originally created the Miami Vice TV show, which had a lasting impact on how people pictured Florida. In 2006, he revisited the series, transforming it into a high-octane action movie for the big screen.

Okay, so Miami Vice is definitely extra, but I think it’s super important when you’re talking about how Florida is shown in movies. The film doesn’t really dwell on the location like the original TV show did, but it actually uses South Florida in a way the show never could. Honestly, I think it’s the perfect way to wrap up everything the franchise has been building towards.

I’m really curious to hear what everyone thinks! Which of these movies feels the most Florida to you? And honestly, I’m wondering what great Florida movies we missed – what would you add to the list?

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2026-03-03 03:16