Fans Swarm Calif. Town Where ’90s Cult Classic Was Filmed

This weekend, Cambria, a scenic coastal town in California, is set to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the iconic film “Arachnophobia.” The movie, filmed in the area, follows the story of a doctor, Ross Jennings, who relocates his family to a tranquil town, only to be besieged by a wave of deadly spiders. Thousands are expected to swarm the town to participate in this unique celebration.

Arachnophobia’s Legacy in Cambria

Locals are eager to honor a film that has become a part of their community’s identity. The anniversary event will feature a special screening of “Arachnophobia,” accompanied by a documentary chronicling its production. Attendees can look forward to a Q&A session and the opportunity to hear stories from residents who participated in the film.

The Town’s Connection to Hollywood

Jeff Plummer, director of the Cambria Film Festival, shared that his family has lived in Cambria since 1997. He emphasized how the film’s legacy continues to resonate with visitors. “When we moved here, people would take pictures of our house,” he noted, explaining the ongoing interest in the shooting locations.

• Film Director: Frank Marshall
• Film Release: 1990
• Principal Cast: Jeff Daniels, John Goodman
• Filming Location: Cambria, California
• Spider Wrangler: Steven R. Kutcher

The film’s director, Frank Marshall, revealed his choice of Cambria stemmed from the need for an idyllic location, which perfectly fit the film’s theme. His intention was to create a light-hearted thriller that could resonate with audiences while delivering the scares associated with spider encounters.

The Real Stars of the Film

While Daniels and Goodman received top billing, the film’s authenticity was greatly enhanced by the presence of Kutcher, the film’s spider wrangler. He began preparing spiders for the film months before production started. Over 500 spiders from New Zealand were utilized in the film, which involved extensive training and rehearsal sessions.

Community Involvement and Recognition

Several locals appeared in the film, including Coast Union High School football players and residents who played roles as townspeople. Their participation adds a layer of community pride to the screening. Director Marshall fondly recalls the collaborative atmosphere during filming and reflects on his fondness for Cambria.

Upcoming Celebration Details

The celebration event is expected to attract many fans, including some locals involved in the film. Although big names like Spielberg and Marshall may not attend in person, their influence on the film’s legacy remains strong. The event has already sold out, reflecting the ongoing affection for “Arachnophobia” and its connection to the town. “People still really care about this movie,” Plummer affirmed, echoing the sentiments of many Cambrians.