Did you know that some of Hollywood’s most iconic Southern films were shot in downtown Canton? With timeless and authentic contributions to film, Canton has quietly played a starring role on the big screen for decades. Today, that cinematic legacy lives on through the Canton Movie Museums, two immersive attractions that celebrate the town’s unexpected, and enduring ties to Hollywood.

Canton’s connection to the film industry began in the 1990s, when its classic small-town architecture and preserved historic district caught the eye of location scouts. Since then, multiple productions have chosen Canton as their filming home, including A Time to Kill (1996), O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000), and My Dog Skip (2000). These high-profile films introduced Canton to millions of viewers worldwide, helping establish the town as a sought-after location for directors drawn to the atmosphere and character of the American South.

While Canton may not have cameras rolling every single day, film activity here is far from occasional. The Mississippi Film Office works year-round with filmmakers exploring locations across the state, including Canton, to determine the right fit for upcoming projects. In fact, Canton continues to host productions throughout the year, with recent films including The Minute You Wake Up Dead starring Cole Hauser and Morgan Freeman and Finding Faith with John Schneider, as well as upcoming releases like Hotel Tehran starring Liam Neeson and The Girl in the River featuring Ralph Macchio, Tiffany Haddish, Maggie Grace, and Devon Sawa. These productions bring more than star power, they create local jobs, support small businesses, and reinforce Canton’s reputation as Mississippi’s Film Capital, where movie-making remains an active and meaningful part of the community.

Inside the Canton Movie Museums

The Canton Movie Museums preserve and showcase the town’s film legacy, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how Canton transformed into unforgettable movie settings.

A Time to Kill Museum

Based on John Grisham’s novel and brought to life by director Joel Schumacher, A Time to Kill remains one of the most iconic films ever shot in Canton. Inside the museum, guests can step directly into the world of the film and explore:

  • Original props from the movie

  • Set pieces and courtroom replicas

  • Costumes worn by cast members

  • Behind-the-scenes photography

  • Production notes and memorabilia

O Brother, Where Art Thou? Museum

The Coen Brothers’ beloved Southern odyssey brought a different kind of cinematic character to Canton, reimagining the town as a Depression-era Mississippi landscape. This museum includes:

  • Props and costumes used by George Clooney, John Turturro, and Tim Blake Nelson

  • Musical artifacts tied to the film’s Grammy-winning soundtrack

  • Original set designs and concept art

  • Interactive displays about the movie’s themes and cultural impact

My Dog Skip: A Canton Classic

Another cherished film represented at the Canton Movie Museums is My Dog Skip, the heartwarming coming-of-age story filmed in Canton and inspired by author Willie Morris’s childhood in Mississippi. Released in 2000, the film captures the spirit of small-town life through its nostalgic storytelling and memorable scenes filmed throughout Canton. Museum exhibits highlight the movie’s local ties, its role in introducing Canton to a new generation of filmgoers, and the lasting emotional connection audiences continue to have with the story.

An Experience for Everyone

Whether you’re a devoted film buff, interested in Mississippi history, or simply someone who appreciates good storytelling, the Canton Movie Museums offer something for everyone.

For Movie Lovers:
Film enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to step behind some of the South’s most recognizable movies, including:

  • Up-close access to authentic Hollywood artifacts

  • Insight into location scouting and production design

  • Photo opportunities inspired by iconic scenes

  • A closer look at how major films are made in small-town America

Families and Casual Visitors:
The museums are designed to be engaging even for visitors unfamiliar with the films, offering:

  • Visual exhibits that are easy to follow

  • A fresh way to explore Canton’s history

  • Interactive elements that appeal to all ages

  • A unique alternative to traditional museum formats

For History Enthusiasts:
Beyond the films, the Canton Movie Museums provide a compelling look into Mississippi’s cultural and historical identity, showing how cinema reflects and preserves real moments in time.

  • How Canton’s historic downtown was used to recreate different eras

  • Context on life in Mississippi during the Depression and Civil Rights Period

  • A deeper understanding of Canton’s role in the films’ narratives

  • Insight into how movies document and interpret history

Canton’s film story is still unfolding. Through initiatives like the Young Filmmakers Workshop, hosted locally to introduce students to the art of filmmaking, the city continues to nurture creativity and celebrate its place in the cinematic world.

Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, exploring Mississippi’s cultural trail, or curious about the movies that shaped Canton’s identity, the Canton Movie Museums invite you to step into a story where movie history and Mississippi heritage meet.