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The Fascinating Tale of the Oregonian Houses in Movies

2024-11-21

Oregonians have long been intimately acquainted with the intricate narrative surrounding the Astoria house that graced the screens in "The Goonies." This 1985 movie has become a magnet for fans, who flock to the Oregon coast to gaze upon and capture pictures of this hilltop abode. The dynamic between the fervent passion of movie enthusiasts for locations tied to their beloved shows and the sentiments of those who call these homes their own is a subject delicately explored in the new documentary, "The House From …"

Unraveling the Complexity of Movie-Related Homes

Exploring the "Goonies" House

In "The Goonies," the Astoria house holds a special place in the hearts of fans. Jason Lee's narration guides us through this feature-length documentary as we delve into the experiences of former owner Sandi Preston and her friend. Some fans were polite, while others showed less consideration, causing Preston frustration as thousands kept showing up. The controversy reached its peak when fans ignored posted signs and Preston put the house up for sale. In 2023, a Kansas-based entrepreneur named Behman Zakeri bought the home for $1,650,777. Zakeri appears in the documentary, encouraging fans to visit despite a neighboring home's "Goonies Not Welcome" banner.This house is not just a structure; it represents a connection for fans. It's a place where memories are made and emotions run high. The documentary captures the essence of this complex relationship between fans and homeowners.

The "Twilight" House in St. Helens

The film also takes us to the home of Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) in "Twilight," located in St. Helens. Some homeowners of famous residences have chosen to capitalize on fan interest by turning their properties into vacation rentals. This shows how different people approach the presence of movie fans. While some may be annoyed, others see an opportunity to share a part of their lives with others.This house in St. Helens has become a pilgrimage site for "Twilight" fans. It's a place where they can connect with the story and feel a deeper connection to the movie. The documentary showcases the various perspectives and experiences related to these movie-related homes.

Other Notable Movie Houses

Jason Lee's narration doesn't stop at just the "Goonies" and "Twilight" houses. We also visit the home featured in "Short Circuit" in Astoria and other popular spots like Carrie Bradshaw's New York City home from "Sex and the City," the Winnetka, Illinois house from "Home Alone," the Tanner residence in San Francisco from "Full House," and the "Christmas Story" house in Cleveland.These houses are not just sets; they are part of our cultural fabric. They evoke memories and emotions that transcend the screen. The documentary highlights the significance of these places and the impact they have on people.While in most cases, only the exteriors of the homes were used in movies, that hasn't stopped diehard fans from showing up in large numbers. Some homeowners and neighbors have been touched by the emotional connection fans make, while others are less enthusiastic. But for many, visiting these places is not just tourism; it's a pilgrimage, a way to connect with something that has been deeply meaningful in their lives."The House From …," directed by Tommy Avallone, is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video and is streaming on Fubo (which offers a free trial) and the Maximum Effort Channel. It offers a unique perspective on the complex world of movie-related homes and the people who call them their own.