The beloved story of Celie, a Black woman navigating love, loss, and resilience in the Deep South, has returned to the screen in a vibrant new musical adaptation. But for fans of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, there’s something even more special about this latest iteration: it was filmed entirely in Georgia, the very state where the story unfolds.
From the rolling hills and pecan groves of Macon to the moss-draped oaks of Savannah, Georgia’s diverse landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for bringing Celie’s world to life. Filmmakers meticulously scouted locations across the state, utilizing everything from the grandeur of Stone Mountain Park’s quarry exhibit to the quaint charm of a covered bridge in Woodbury.
But “The Color Purple” isn’t just a visual feast; it’s also an economic boon for the state. With over $73 million spent on production and more than 2,300 Georgians hired, the film’s impact is undeniable. Hotels across the state, from Atlanta to Jekyll Island, saw a surge in occupancy thanks to the production crew.
“These are the kind of film stories that we love – ones where the projects shoot all over the state and everybody feels the positive impacts that the film industry brings with it,” says Georgia Film Office Deputy Commissioner Lee Thomas.
And the positive impact extends beyond just dollars and cents. The film’s success, with its near-perfect audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and Golden Globe nominations, shines a spotlight on Georgia’s thriving film industry and its commitment to diverse storytelling.
“The Color Purple” is more than just a movie; it’s a testament to the power of resilience, the beauty of Georgia, and the transformative potential of film. As Celie’s journey unfolds on screen, it’s a reminder that even in the face of hardship, hope can bloom in the most unexpected places.
