Minden, LA on the Big Screen!
Minden stands as a picturesque town that has played an unexpected yet significant role in the world of cinema. Minden has been a sought-after location for filmmakers for its small-town charm, offering a diverse range of settings that have graced the silver screen. From iconic movies to popular TV shows, Minden has quietly become a backdrop for compelling stories. Let’s take a cinematic journey through the films and TV shows that have chosen Minden as their stage.
Northwest Louisiana Film Trail
“Over the years, this area of the state dubbed ‘Hollywood South’ has been the backdrop to many major motion pictures, made for television series, commercials and other film projects. Follow the map and scan the QR Code on each site sign to view the scene filmed at each Minden location.” –Visit Webster
The Guardian (2006): This action-adventure fantasy film, starring Kevin Costner and Ashton Kutcher, chose Minden as a location for several key scenes. The town’s natural beauty, including its lush landscapes and nearby lakes, provided a visually stunning backdrop for the film’s outdoor sequences.
Premonition (2006): Starring Sandra Bullock, the film weaves a complex tale of time-bending suspense and emotional exploration against the unexpected canvas of Minden’s charming streets.
Blonde Ambition (2006): As Jessica Simpson’s character embarks on a fish-out-of-water adventure, Minden’s role becomes more than just a setting; it becomes a character in the story. The town’s warm and welcoming ambiance adds an authentic touch to the film’s exploration of the clash between rural simplicity and metropolitan glamour.
The Mist (2007): Several vital scenes were shot in Camp Minden, which is a large training facility that was previously known as the Louisiana Military Ammunition Plant.
Longshots (2008): Starring Ice Cube and Keke Palmer, this comedy-drama sports film was filmed at Minden High School and the Webster Parish Alternative School. The “Super Bowl” was filmed in Shreveport, Louisiana at Calvary Baptist Academy.
Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay (2008): The hilariously irreverent sequel to “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle,” chose Minden as one of its filming locations, bringing an unexpected wave of humor to this Southern gem.
Trespass (2010): Starring Nicolas Cage and Nicole Kidman as a wealthy couple whose home is invaded by a group of criminals, “Trespass” utilized Minden’s unsuspecting streets and neighborhoods to set the stage for intense suspense and high-stakes drama.
Straw Dogs (2011): A remake of the 1971 classic, “Straw Dogs” brought Hollywood stars James Marsden and Kate Bosworth to Minden. The town’s rustic and tranquil setting played a crucial role in creating the tense atmosphere of the film.
Olympus Has Fallen (2013): Starring Gerard Butler as a Secret Service agent tasked with defending the White House from a terrorist attack, “Olympus Has Fallen” relied on Minden’s unique blend of urban and rural landscapes to create the backdrop for its gripping narrative.
These are only a few of the movies you’ll find on the Northwest Louisiana Film Trail that were filmed in Minden!
TV Appearances
HGTV’s Home Town Kickstart (2022): Minden’s own Sara McDaniel and Rachel Miller reached out to HGTV to present the quaint town and to show why it was so deserving to be showcased on Home Town Kickstart! In season 1 episode 6, “Page Turner, Carmine Sabatella, Mike Pyle and Russell Holmes bring Minden, Louisiana, together with a community center that honors the past. Then, they refresh a restaurant that helps women make a fresh start and create more space for two local mentors.” –HGTV
Magnolia Network’ In With the Old (2023): Sara purchased the Big Yellow House in the same transaction as the Villas at Spanish Court and underwent a similar revitalization! The big house conveniently sits right behind the villas. In season 4 episode 7, “an iconic 1905 Louisiana home filled with secrets comes back to life.” –Magnolia Network
The town’s presence on the big screen is undeniably grand. From heartwarming dramas to intense thrillers, Minden has proven to be a versatile and captivating backdrop for filmmakers. As the town continues to attract filmmakers & television producers seeking unique and authentic locations, it is sure to remain a hidden gem, leaving a mark on the stories told on screen. And who knows, you could be right down the street from a movie/TV set when you stay in Minden!
Plus, you can visit all of these locations when you visit Minden, LA, stay in the Villas, and host a gathering at the Big Yellow House!