| Savannah’s Latina Voice
Discover the Magic of Savannah: A Setting for History and Film in the Heart of the South
Savannah, with its Southern charm and cobblestone streets, was founded in 1733 and has witnessed many chapters in American history. The oldest city in Georgia, it was established by James Oglethorpe and its urban layout, with green squares and wide streets, remains an example of advanced planning for its time. Savannah played a crucial role during the Civil War, serving as a strategic port and trade center. Its preservation and beauty have made it a popular location for filming movies, attracting filmmakers from around the world.
Speaking of movies, who doesn’t remember the famous scene of Forrest Gump sitting on a bench, recounting his life story with a box of chocolates? During a visit to Savannah, I got quite a scare when I saw a man who looked like he came straight out of the movie. He was there on his bench, wearing his beige suit, checked shirt, and those white and red Nike sneakers we all know. My heart skipped a beat until I discovered that he was a local actor who dresses up as Forrest to entertain tourists. Not only does he nail the look, but he also perfectly imitates the character’s manner of speech and mannerisms. It’s quite an attraction, and although the original bench is no longer in the square, it’s now housed in a museum in Savannah, and is a must-see for fans of the movie.
Savannah has not only lent its image to Forrest Gump. Its architecture, colonial houses and oak trees draped in Spanish moss have been the setting for numerous films. For example, “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” directed by Clint Eastwood and based on the book by John Berendt, was filmed in Savannah and perfectly captures its mysterious and charming atmosphere. The film follows the story of a journalist investigating a murder in Savannah’s high society, and many of the locations shown, such as the Mercer-Williams House, can be visited, thus offering a unique experience for film buffs and history buffs.
Another well-known film is “Glory,” which tells the story of the first African-American regiment to fight for the Union during the Civil War. Many scenes were filmed in and around Savannah, taking advantage of its historic landscape and authenticity. The film is notable not only for its impressive cast, including Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington and Morgan Freeman, but also for its faithful recreation of the era and its tribute to the African-American soldiers who bravely fought for their freedom.
Most recently, “The Last Song,” which starred Miley Cyrus, was filmed on the nearby beaches and in historic downtown Savannah. The film follows a teenage girl who spends the summer with her father in a small coastal town. Scenes that were filmed in Savannah and Tybee Island showcase the area’s natural beauty as well as its picturesque architecture.
Walking through Savannah is like stepping back in time. Historic buildings like the Mercer-Williams House and Owens-Thomas House tell stories of bygone eras. Squares, each with their own personality, offer quiet havens where you can sit and watch life go by. The city is beautiful not only for its architecture and scenery, but also for its people, who are always ready to share stories and make visitors feel at home.
I particularly remember a hot August afternoon, walking through the historic district. Every corner seemed to have been designed for a postcard. The colors of the houses, the sound of the fountains and that slow pace that invites you to relax and enjoy the moment. Suddenly, a horse-drawn carriage passed by me and added an extra touch of magic to the walk. Everything in Savannah seems to be in tune to offer a unique and wonderful experience.
Savannah has managed to preserve its heritage while at the same time opening up to the modern world. Its streets are a perfect blend of history and modernity, where visitors can enjoy both a historical tour and a vibrant cultural and gastronomic life. It is a city that is lived and felt, and that always has something new to offer, even to those who think they know it well.
So, next time you’re in Savannah, look up Forrest Gump, visit the museum to see the famous bank, and let the city envelop you in its charm. Because in Savannah, every corner has something to tell, and every visit is a new opportunity to discover it.
