The 10 best movies set in Arizona

From action and comedy to thrillers and heartfelt dramas, these 10 movies set in Arizona capture everything there is to love about the Grand Canyon State. 

Arizona is one of the most beautiful and diverse states in the US, so it’s no surprise that it’s been a consistent backdrop for movies across all kinds of genres. Whether you live in Arizona and take pride in seeing it on the screen, once called it home and miss it dearly, or have always wanted to visit, these movies capture a piece of it. From action and comedy to heartbreak, thrillers, and feel-good stories, there’s an Arizona movie for every mood.

1. Tombstone 

“Tombstone” was released on Christmas Day in 1993, and it hasn’t lost popularity or traction since—for good reason. Directed by George P. Cosmatos, “Tombstone” is loosely based on true events that took place in Arizona in the late 1800s. The film follows the Earp brothers as they attempt to leave their lawman days behind and start fresh in the booming town of Tombstone. But settling down isn’t so easy. As they try to build a new life, they find themselves targeted and at odds with a ruthless outlaw gang known as the Cowboys, leading to one of the most infamous showdowns in Wild West history.

2. Psycho

I wonder if there’s a single “best movies” list that doesn’t include at least one Hitchcock film. Probably not. One of his best-known films, “Psycho,” was set in Arizona. Known for its infamous shower scene, “Psycho” set a new standard for horror movies and continues to influence films today. The general premise goes like this: Marion Crane, a real estate secretary, is on the run after stealing a significant sum of money and is forced to stop at the Bates Motel due to a heavy rainstorm. After dining with the shy yet unsettling motel proprietor, Norman Bates, she mysteriously disappears. As suspicion grows, Marion’s fiancé, Sam, and her sister, Lila, set out to uncover the truth in this suspense-building thriller masterpiece. 

3. The Last Stop in Yuma County 

“The Last Stop in Yuma County” is the definition of ‘wrong place, wrong time.’ A traveling salesman finds himself stranded at a rural Arizona gas station, waiting for a fuel delivery, when suddenly his life takes a drastic turn—he becomes entangled in a tense hostage situation. Francois Galluppi’s debut feature has been hailed as one of the best indie films in years, and for good reason. Its twists and turns are thrilling and unpredictable, keeping you on edge of your seat. Paired with stunning cinematography and excelling acting, this film deserves a spot at the top of your watchlist.

4. 3:10 to Yuma

Based on Elmore Leonard’s short story, “3:10 to Yuma” is packed with action and features a talented cast, including Russell Crowe and Christian Bale. Set in the small town of Bisbee, this Western follows Civil War veteran Dan Evans as he takes on the dangerous job of escorting the outlaw Ben Wade onto a train bound for Yuma Prison. Along the way, Evans and Wade develop a mutual respect, even as Wade’s men relentlessly pursue them, determined to set their leader free. The film is full of twists, turns, and surprises. And while it delivers plenty of action, it also raises deeper questions about justice, friendship, and desperation.

5. Frybread Face and Me

“Frybread Face and Me” is a beautiful coming-of-age story directed by Billy Luther. The film follows Benny, a Fleetwood Mac-loving, action-figure-carrying Native American boy who is sent by his parents to spend the summer with his grandmother on her ranch on an Arizona reservation. Feeling like a fish out of water, he struggles to find his footing and understand himself in relation to his culture and family—many of whom he’s only heard stories about until now. With the help of his odd yet confident 11-year-old cousin, Frybread Face, Benny begins to develop a deep love for where he comes from.

6. Raising Arizona

If you love quirky comedies and want a film that will have you both laughing and on the edge of your seat, “Raising Arizona” is the one to watch. Directed by the Coen Brothers, the movie follows H.I. “Hi” McDunnough (Nicolas Cage), a small-time criminal, and his wife, Edwina “Ed” (Holly Hunter), a police officer, as they embark on an out-of-control plan to kidnap a child and raise it as their own. Yes, the story is goofy and outrageous at times, but it also explores deeper themes of redemption, love, and the meaning of family. Oh, and did I mention it stars Nicolas Cage?

7. Everything Must Go

Unlike Will Ferrell’s usual slapstick, goofy films, “Everything Must Go” is one big—albeit beautifully done—gut punch. Directed by Dan Rush, the film is based on Raymond Carver’s short story “Why Don’t You Dance?” It follows salesman Nick Halsey, who ends up in Arcadia, Arizona, after being fired from his job in Denver. On top of that, his wife has left him, and he’s out of money, hope, and luck. As he struggles to piece his life together, Nick forms unexpected connections with the few people around him in a desperate search for belonging. Deep, heartbreaking, and honest, this movie is a raw exploration of redemption, recovery, and the painful reality of hitting rock bottom. 

8. Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion

Best known for its hilarious and now-iconic “Time After Time” dance scene, “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion” follows two best friends who, feeling insecure about their accomplishments, decide to fabricate their lives to impress their former classmates at their high school reunion. This comedy is loosely based on Robin Schiff’s play “Ladies’ Room” and will have you laughing while also questioning our universal desire for validation. Who knew something so silly could be so thought-provoking?

9. Can’t Buy Me Love 

Eighties rom-coms are hard to beat, and “Can’t Buy Me Love” is no exception. Starring heartthrobs Patrick Dempsey and Amanda Peterson, the movie follows a high school ‘nerd’ who pays a popular cheerleader to pretend to be his girlfriend—despite the fact that she already has a college boyfriend. What starts as a business deal slowly turns into an unexpected friendship, complicating both of their social lives. Beneath the laughs, the film offers insight into teen psychology and explores themes of betrayal, love, and the pressure to fit in—all while making you reflect on your own time in high school … because who doesn’t love thinking back on high school?

10. Jerry Maguire

Love, sports, humor—this movie has it all. Written and directed by Cameron Crowe and starring Tom Cruise, “Jerry Maguire” follows a successful (and arguably self-absorbed) sports agent who has a change of heart and decides to prioritize relationships over profit. As a result, he loses his job and his fiancée—but gains something far more meaningful. With only one loyal football player and a devoted employee by his side, Jerry sets out to rebuild both his career and himself. On the surface, it’s a movie about sports, but at its core, it’s a story about standing up for what’s right, defying expectations and social norms, and embracing love, courage, and resilience.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

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