10 Best Movies Set in Small Towns

In the sleepy town of Ebbing, Missouri, a mother's quest for justice sparks a storm of controversy. After months without arrest in her daughter's murder case, Mildred Hayes courageously ups the ante by challenging the esteemed local police chief, Bill Willoughby. Her bold stance emblazoned on three billboards reignites the flames of a simmering conflict, intensified by the volatile Officer Jason Dixon. Released on December 1, 2017, and rated 4 out of 5, this film delves deep into themes of grief, justice, and redemption.

Meet Napoleon Dynamite, a quirky, introverted teenager navigating the quirky waters of high school life in a small western town. Released on June 11, 2004, this film, featuring an average rating of 3.4, follows Napoleon on his mission to help his friend secure the class presidency amidst a backdrop of personal oddities and a peculiar family life. It's a delightful journey through high school politics and eccentric personalities.

In a town where excitement is rare, Charlotte 'Charlie' Newton finds herself exhilarated by the visit of her uncle, Charlie Oakley. But when suspicion shrouds her once-worshipped uncle, a series of unnerving revelations follows. Alfred Hitchcock masterfully crafts suspense in this classic noir from January 15, 1943, boasting a robust rating of 4.1.

Set against the backdrop of a serene Midwestern community in 1967, Larry Gopnik’s life spirals into chaos when his wife reveals her love for another man. Released on September 30, 2009, this dark comedy received an average rating of 3.4 and delves into the nuances of cultural and personal crises with a touch of the Coen Brothers' quintessential whimsy.

Jerry Lundegaard's well-laid plans unravel in spectacular style in this twisted tale of crime gone awry. Set in the snow-laden expanses of Minnesota and released on March 8, 1996, Fargo is renowned for its dark humor and relentless Police Chief Marge, whose homespun wisdom unravels the sinister plot. It scored a high rating of 4.2 for its tense narrative and iconic performances.

Adapted from Stephen King’s novel, this coming-of-age tale captures the innocent adventure and poignant lessons of four young friends in 1959 Oregon. Released on August 8, 1986, it explores friendship and bravery, retaining a strong rating of 4.0.

Andrew Largeman returns home for his mother's funeral, setting the stage for a poignant journey of self-discovery and healing. This 2004 film, boasting a 3.9 rating, features a powerful reunion with former friends, reigniting old emotions, and tender connections, anchored by his growing bond with the enigmatic Sam.

This 1998 fantasy brings the monochrome world of a 1950s TV sitcom to life when David and Jennifer introduce modern vibrancy and perspective, transforming everything they touch. Rated 3.6, this movie is a colorful metaphor for the shift from conformity to individualism.

A shift from bustling London to the quiet village of Sandford brings unexpected thrills for former constable Nicholas Angel. Released on February 14, 2007, and rated 4, his intuitive detective skills uncover a dark conspiracy lurking beneath Sandford’s bucolic surface in this beloved action-comedy.

This modern riff on Cyrano de Bergerac introduces us to Ellie Chu, a timid high schooler who finds herself entangled in a love-triangle with a twist. Released on May 1, 2020, with an average rating of 3.5, the film explores friendship, identity, and unrequited love in a tender narrative.