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SALT LAKE CITY — When "The Covered Wagon" was released in 1923, it helped establish a template for many of the Western films that would follow. There was adventure and danger, a damsel in distress, and the movie’s backdrop featured the rugged beauty of Utah.
Since that time, Utah has appeared in more than 900 films. And while Westerns like “Jeremiah Johnson” are often considered among the best, there have also been several great comedies shot locally.
Choosing the best of these comedies is a subjective affair, with each person’s unique tastes playing a huge role. Nevertheless, this article takes a quick look at five of the best comedies filmed in our state.
“Better Off Dead”
Utah locations include Alta, Brighton and Snowbird.
Rating: PG
IMDB description: A teenager has to deal with his girlfriend dumping him among family crises, homicidal paper boys and a rival skier.
“Fletch”
Utah locations include Ogden.
Rating: PG
IMBD description: Irwin M. "Fletch" Fletcher is a newspaper reporter being offered a large sum to off a cancerous millionaire, but is on the run, risking his job, and finding clues when it's clear the man is healthy.
“Dumb and Dumber”
Utah locations include Provo, Orem, Park City, Ogden and Salt Lake City.
Rating: PG-13
IMDB description: The cross-country adventures of two good-hearted but incredibly stupid friends.
No matter how many times you've watched it, "Dumb and Dumber" is always good for some laughs. It has some great one-liners and Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels are perfect in their roles as goofy pals.
@KSLPopReport D&D used Ogden, too! Here's Jordan in front of the famous van. pic.twitter.com/ZM6f8nOKTy
— Angie Treasure (@snark_tank) August 22, 2016
"Galaxy Quest"
Utah locations include Goblin Valley State Park.
Rating: PG
IMDB description: The alumni cast of a space-opera television series have to play their roles as the real thing when an alien race needs their help.
"Troll 2"
Utah locations include Morgan, Porterville and Heber City.
Rating: PG-13
IMDB description: A family vacationing in a small town discovers the entire town is inhabited by goblins in disguise as humans, who plan to eat them.
What would you say are the funniest movies filmed in Utah? Let us know in the comments.