Movie Museums - Canton, Mississippi

Movie Museums in Canton, Mississippi. Film lovers and movie fanatics enjoy touring the behind-the-scenes Movie Museums in Canton, Mississippi.  Canton is commonly known as the film capital of the state, or the “City of Lights, Camera, Action!”

Articles, scripts, photos and other memorabilia from several works filmed in Canton and surrounding areas are on display.  Actual sets and scene props are also preserved for public viewing, allowing a personal look into the environment of your favorite films.

Canton’s historic town square, 19th Century buildings and homes have provided a sought-after site for many popular movie productions.  Locals and officials have expended untold amounts of time and energy in preserving the traditions, culture and history of the authentic Deep South.

One such film that is set in Canton is “A Time to Kill”, based on the popular John Grisham novel.  Emotionally-charged scenes from the film are made even more dramatic when touring the locations where they were filmed in the city.

Sets from the infamous coffee shop, the law firm offices of Jake, the main character in the film, and the courthouse square are easily seen in Canton.  The memorable scene of the Klan march into the town square is heard and viewed in the museums.  Locals came together in combining Canton architecture, commerce, personnel and equipment in the filming of “A Time to Kill”.

Scenes from “My Dog Skip” are also found on display.  Movie gurus will recognize the sets from Willie’s birthday party, and the actual Witch’s Crypt.  Photos and articles also feature the author of the script, who was a Canton resident.

“The Ponder Heart”, a PBS Masterpiece Theatre film, is set in the small town of Clay, Mississippi.  Props from the film on display include a 1930s permanent wave machine and the set of the Ponder House sitting room.

Other films based in Canton include “O Brother, Where Art Thou” and “The Rising Place”.  Increased interest from producers, writers and directors has spawned a local planning of construction of a new film center in downtown Canton.

The authentic architecture and customs of the area appeal to filmmakers searching for genuine historic influence in their movies.  Locals pride themselves on preserving the ambience, structural components and culture of everyday practices.  A visit to the movie museums transports you to a prior time and famous setting.

Tickets to the Movie Museums may be purchased at the Canton Welcome Center. Film lovers and movie fanatics enjoy touring the behind-the-scenes Movie Museums in Canton, Mississippi.

Corner of Union and Center Streets

P.O. Box 53

Canton, MS 39046

601-859-1307