Best Movies Set in Maine

Every state is known for something. As you work your way through the list, don't miss the best movies set in Maine. While you're at it, check out the best books set in Maine, too.

Maine, the northeasternmost U.S. state, is known for its rocky coastline, maritime history, and nature areas like the granite and spruce islands of Acadia National Park. Moose are plentiful in Baxter State Park, home to Mt. Katahdin, the endpoint of the Appalachian Trail.

Lighthouses such as the candy-striped beacon at West Quoddy Head, dot the coast, as do lobster shacks and sandy beaches like Ogunquit and Old Orchard.

In this post:

What themes are in Movies Set in Maine?

Movies set in Maine often explore various themes, drawing inspiration from the state's unique landscapes, culture, and history. Here are some common themes found in movies set in Maine:

Isolation and Solitude:
- Maine's vast and sparsely populated areas often contribute to themes of isolation and solitude. Films set in rural Maine may explore the challenges and beauty of living in remote areas.
Nature and Wilderness:
- Given Maine's stunning natural landscapes, many films set in the state emphasize themes related to nature and wilderness. These movies might showcase the beauty of the coast, forests, and mountains, or delve into the relationship between characters and their environment.
Small-Town Life:
- Maine's small towns and close-knit communities are often depicted in movies. Themes of community, tradition, and the impact of close relationships are explored in films set in these quaint settings.
Maritime Culture:
- With its extensive coastline, Maine often serves as a backdrop for movies that delve into maritime culture. Themes may include fishing communities, lobstering, and the challenges of life on the water.
Lighthouse Symbolism:
- Maine's iconic lighthouses frequently appear in films, serving as symbols of guidance, isolation, or a connection to the past. Movies may use lighthouses metaphorically to convey themes of hope or solitude.
Family Secrets:
- Some movies set in Maine explore family dynamics and hidden secrets. The state's atmospheric settings can enhance the sense of mystery and intrigue in films that deal with family histories.
Seasonal Changes:
- The distinct seasonal changes in Maine, from the vibrant colors of fall to the harshness of winter, are often reflected in movies. These changes may symbolize themes of renewal, transformation, or adversity.
Survival and Resilience:
- Films set in Maine's rugged terrain sometimes focus on themes of survival and resilience. Characters may face challenges in the wilderness, testing their abilities to overcome adversity.
Stephen King Influence:
- Given that author Stephen King often sets his stories in Maine, some films based on his works contribute to a theme of supernatural or horror elements, exploring the darker aspects of the state's fictional settings.
Historical Significance:
- Movies set in Maine may delve into its historical significance, including themes related to colonial history, maritime trade, or events that shaped the state's identity.

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It's important to note that not all movies set in Maine will explore these themes, and the state serves as a diverse backdrop for a variety of stories. Additionally, individual filmmakers may interpret and emphasize different aspects of Maine's culture and landscapes based on their creative vision.

How to Create a State Unit Study for Maine

Creating a state unit study for Maine can be an engaging and educational project for students. Whether you're a teacher, homeschooling parent, or an individual interested in learning more about Maine, here's a guide to help you design a comprehensive unit study:

1. Define the Scope:

Determine the grade level or age group for your unit study.
Decide on the duration of the unit study, whether it's a week-long project or an extended study.

2. Select Key Topics:

Geography: Explore Maine's geography, including its coastline, forests, mountains, and notable landmarks. Discuss the state's unique physical features.
History: Cover key historical events in Maine, including its colonial history, maritime traditions, and significant cultural milestones.
Culture: Study Maine's cultural aspects, including traditions, art, music, and famous individuals associated with the state.
Economy: Investigate economic activities in Maine, such as fishing, forestry, tourism, and agriculture.

3. Gather Resources:

Books and Literature: Find age-appropriate books about Maine, both fiction and non-fiction, to provide a well-rounded understanding of the state.
Documentaries and Videos: Look for documentaries or educational videos that showcase Maine's landscapes, culture, and history.
Online Resources: Utilize websites, maps, and virtual tours that offer information about Maine.

4. Hands-On Activities:

Cooking: Explore Maine cuisine by trying out recipes for dishes like lobster rolls or blueberry-based treats.
Art and Crafts: Create art projects related to Maine, such as painting coastal scenes, making paper lighthouses, or crafting items inspired by the state's culture.
Field Trips: If possible, plan virtual or physical field trips to local museums, historical sites, or nature reserves related to Maine.

5. Writing and Research Projects:

State Report: Assign students a state report covering various aspects of Maine, including geography, history, culture, and economy.
Creative Writing: Encourage students to write stories or poems inspired by Maine's landscapes or historical events.

6. Assessment:

Develop quizzes, projects, or presentations to assess students' understanding of the material.
Encourage discussions and reflections on what students have learned throughout the unit study.

7. Integration with Core Subjects:

Math: Incorporate math activities related to Maine, such as calculating distances between locations or analyzing economic data.
Science: Explore Maine's natural environment, including its flora, fauna, and unique ecosystems.
Language Arts: Emphasize reading comprehension, writing, and vocabulary building through literature and research.

8. Collaboration and Discussion:

Foster class discussions and group activities to encourage collaboration among students.
Use multimedia presentations and class projects to share what students have learned.

9. Celebrate the End of the Unit:

Organize a presentation, fair, or exhibit where students can showcase their projects and what they've learned about Maine.

By incorporating a variety of subjects and activities, you can create a well-rounded and engaging state unit study that provides students with a deeper understanding of Maine's geography, history, culture, and economy.

Best Movies Set in Maine

The Mist

Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
Thomas Jane, Marcia Gay Harden, Laurie Holden (Actors)

The Mist

Year: 2007

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When a mysterious mist, and the supernatural creatures within, falls across their town in the wake of a violent storm, a group of local citizens must fend for themselves while trapped inside a local supermarket.

Pet Sematary (1989)

Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
Dale Midkiff, Fred Gwynne, Denise Crosby (Actors)

Pet Sematary

Year: 1989

The Creed family has just moved to their new seemingly perfect home in Maine – but it doesn't take long for them to discover a terrible secret that lies in the cemetery next door that changes their lives forever.

Carrie (1976)

Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
Sissy Spacek, Piper Laurie, Amy Irving (Actors)

Carrie

Year: 1976

Based on a Stephen King novel, Carrie is a shy, friendless girl sheltered by her overly religious mother who seeks revenge on her cruel classmates via her telekinetic powers when they humiliate her at the Senior Prom.

Dolores Claiborne

Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
Kathy Bates, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Judy Parfitt (Actors)

Dolores Claiborne

Year: 1995

An estranged mother (Kathy Bates) and daughter (Jennifer Jason Leigh) must confront their darkest memories when one of them is accused of murder in this adaptation of Stephen King's novel.

The Cider House Rules

Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
Tobey Maguire, Charlize Theron, Delroy Lindo (Actors)

The Cider House Rules

Year: 1999

This breakout New York Times bestseller from the celebrated author of Commencement and The Engagements, introduces four unforgettable women and the abiding, often irrational love that keeps them coming back, every summer, to Maine and to each other.

Now that you've completed the list of best books set in this state, why not check out some others? Here are the Best Movies Set in All 50 States.

DOWNLOAD AND PRINT MOVIES SET IN ALL 50 STATES

Click here to download this printable. It has a list of movies in all 50 states including the Best Movies Set in Maine.

Further Reading About the State:

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Anne is a recent college grad who majored in Business Administration and Marketing Management. She is a hopeless romantic who makes sure our content stays up-to-date.