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Discovering Galveston History Together
Several movies, documentaries, and TV shows have been made that focus on or feature Galveston, Texas, either as the main setting or as part of the storyline.
These films and documentaries cover Galveston’s rich history, culture, and iconic events. Here’s a list of notable examples.
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Based on the novel by Nic Pizzolatto, this film is set in Galveston and tells the story of a hitman who escapes to the island after a botched job and forms an unlikely bond with a young woman. The movie focuses more on the dark, gritty side of the characters’ lives rather than Galveston’s historical aspects, but it gives a cinematic portrayal of the island.
A documentary based on Erik Larson’s bestselling book Isaac’s Storm, which chronicles the 1900 Galveston Hurricane. The film explores the life of Isaac Cline, the meteorologist who failed to predict the magnitude of the storm that ultimately claimed thousands of lives. It is a gripping look at the devastating natural disaster and its impact on the island.
This short documentary, shown at the Pier 21 Theater in Galveston, tells the story of the 1900 Hurricane. It uses historical photos, film footage, and interviews with historians to recreate the events surrounding the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history.
This TV movie is based on the true story of a murder case that occurred in Galveston. It follows the investigation of a prominent Galveston attorney’s death and the subsequent trial. While it’s not a history-focused film, it offers insight into the darker, more mysterious side of Galveston.
Based on true events, this film focuses on a series of murders along a desolate stretch of land between Houston and Galveston. While not exclusively about Galveston, it explores a darker chapter in the region’s history of unsolved crimes.
This documentary focuses on the history of piracy in the Gulf of Mexico, with a particular focus on Jean Lafitte and his pirate operations in Galveston. It explores Lafitte’s influence on the island’s early history and the lore that surrounds his pirate empire.
A paranormal documentary that delves into Galveston’s haunted history, particularly following the 1900 Hurricane. The film covers famous ghost stories, including those associated with the Hotel Galvez, Ashton Villa, and other reportedly haunted locations on the island.
This documentary tells the story of Jack Johnson, the first African American world heavyweight boxing champion, who was born in Galveston. The film explores his life and career, with special attention to the racial struggles he faced during his lifetime.
This documentary explores the origins of Juneteenth, tracing the events in Galveston on June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived to inform enslaved people of their emancipation. It covers the historical significance of the event and its cultural impact, with special attention to Galveston’s role in African American history.
While this documentary focuses on the civil rights movement in Texas, it includes sections on Galveston’s role in desegregation and the city’s historical journey through the Jim Crow era.
This documentary delves into the life of Jean Lafitte, the legendary pirate who once ruled over Galveston Island. It explores his exploits, his role in Gulf Coast piracy, and his lasting legacy on Galveston.
his horror film is set in Galveston and involves a supernatural killer who haunts a small seaside town. While fictional, it uses the eerie coastal setting of Galveston to create its suspenseful atmosphere.
This documentary explores the early history of Texas, including Galveston’s role as a key port and the influence of figures like Jean Lafitte. It looks at Texas before its revolution, when the island was a crossroads for smugglers, settlers, and pirates.
This documentary examines the numerous shipwrecks that have occurred along the Texas Gulf Coast, with special attention to Galveston’s maritime history. It covers notable shipwrecks from the 19th and early 20th centuries, many of which contributed to the island’s nautical lore.
These movies and documentaries provide a variety of entertainment and educational content related to Galveston, from its infamous pirates and hurricanes to its role in civil rights and cultural history. Whether you’re looking for history, ghost stories, or more dramatic interpretations, these films explore the island’s many fascinating facets.