You’ll never forget your first visit to Monument Valley, part of the Navajo Nation straddling the Utah-Arizona border. The vast stretches of red sand punctuated by green sage, with towering redrock monuments jutting skyward, leave a lifetime memory for everyone who experiences the scene.Back in 1939, film director John Ford had the same vision in the shooting of “Stagecoach,” a Western starring the legendary John Wayne. Ford and Wayne returned to Utah for 11 films. “So this is where God put the West,” said Ford on his first visit in the 1930s.Across the state, locations like Monument Valley are etched in the minds of filmgoers. This year, Utah is celebrating 100 years of filmmaking in the state. Through the end of December, the Utah Film Commission is commemorating the anniversary with a captivating timeline display on the fourth floor of the Utah State Capitol.It all began 100 years ago with scenes from Ogden-native John Cruze’s “The Covered Wagon” silent film from Paramount about pioneers making their way along the Oregon Trail shot in Utah. Next came “The Deadwood Coach” from Fox, filmed across southwestern Utah, featuring Tom Mix, the greatest cowboy star of his time. “Without question of doubt, your state is a mecca of picturesque atmosphere,” said Mix, who ensured filmgoers knew scenes were shot in Utah.Interpretive timelines in the display track the history of film in Utah. What began as a showcase of the state’s natural resources over time turned into an industry that became a significant economic driver for the state. But for me, the display was one to bring back iconic memories — some of which I experienced here in Utah and some from films before I made the state my home.Remember Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) and his family cruising across the country in “National Lampoon’s Vacation” (1983) and breaking down in Monument Valley? When you drive by the Lehi Roller Mills on I-15 don’t you think of Kevin Bacon ripping up the dance floor in the 1984 film “Footloose”? Cruising through Arches and Canyonlands National Parks brings back memories of “Thelma & Louise” (1991). As you speed towards Wendover on I-80, you can almost imagine Will Smith in “Independence Day” (1996).One of the most fascinating displays was the collection of German blogger Andrea David (@filmtourismus). In 2019, she visited dozens of Utah film locations, using production still photos to locate the exact spot of the scene, then photographing the film shot in-layed with the scene. From Westerns to spooky ghost stories to bizarre science fiction, Utah has provided the backdrops to some of the most memorable films of all time — like Spock’s home of Vulcan in “Star Trek” (2009), filmed in the San Rafael Swell.But Utah isn’t only about redrock and magical sunsets. It’s also Main Street of Anytown, America. Films like “The Sandlot” (1993), shot in Midvale, Ogden, and Salt Lake City, showcased how Utah’s small towns represent that idyllic feel of hometown America.It was the peaceful connection to nature that attracted Robert Redford, somewhat by chance, to Provo Canyon in the 1960s. Soon he was starring alongside Paul Newman in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (1969).As a Utahn, you’ll bring back many memories walking the mezzanine of the State Capitol. But in the spirit of Sunday Drive, what I hope it does is give you the motivation to adventure out and visit some of Utah’s iconic film landmarks. Utah: America’s Film Set provides a sample itinerary touching on all corners of the state that have inspired amazing storytelling over the past century.DETAILSWhere: The interpretive display occupies the entire mezzanine of the State Capitol’s fourth floor. Take any stairs or elevators. The best place to begin is the northwest corner.Parking: This time of year, there is plenty of parking on the east side of the capitol. Use the public east entrance.When: The State Capitol is open daily — including Sundays! Admission is free.The post Sunday Drive: 100 years of film in Utah appeared first on Park Record.