10 Best Movies Set in the U.S. With Powerful Plots

Movies set in the U.S. often weave powerful stories against the backdrop of its diverse cities, small towns, or sprawling landscapes. From intense dramas to thrilling mysteries, these films use American settings to tell tales that hit hard and linger long after the credits roll.

I’ve picked 10 of the best movies set in the U.S. with plots that grab you, each one using its location to amplify the emotion or suspense. Whether you’re drawn to stories of struggle, justice, or human connection, this list has a cinematic gem to captivate you.

10. The Florida Project (2017)

In ‘The Florida Project’, a young girl and her mother navigate life in a rundown motel near Disney World. Willem Dafoe and Brooklynn Prince shine in Orlando’s gritty margins.

The film’s vibrant yet heartbreaking story captures childhood innocence against poverty’s edge. It’s a raw, colorful slice of American life.

9. Nightcrawler (2014)

Jake Gyllenhaal’s chilling performance drives ‘Nightcrawler’, set in Los Angeles’ seedy underbelly. He plays a hustler filming crime scenes for profit.

The film’s neon-soaked visuals and moral ambiguity grip you tight. It’s a dark, thrilling look at ambition gone wrong.

8. The Big Short (2015)

Set across Wall Street and beyond, ‘The Big Short’ unravels the 2008 financial crisis. Christian Bale and Steve Carell lead a sharp ensemble.

The film’s witty script and real-world stakes make finance riveting. It’s an eye-opening drama about greed and collapse.

7. Manchester by the Sea (2016)

Casey Affleck stars in ‘Manchester by the Sea’, a Massachusetts-set drama about a man facing grief and guardianship. Michelle Williams adds quiet power.

The film’s raw emotion and coastal setting hit hard. It’s a devastating, beautifully crafted story of loss.

6. Moonlight (2016)

‘Moonlight’ follows a young Black man’s life in Miami through three chapters. Mahershala Ali and Trevante Rhodes anchor this intimate tale.

The film’s poetic visuals and emotional depth won it Best Picture. It’s a stunning portrait of identity and resilience.

5. No Country for Old Men (2007)

The Coen Brothers’ ‘No Country for Old Men’ unfolds in West Texas, where Josh Brolin finds cash and faces Javier Bardem’s terrifying hitman.

The film’s stark landscapes and tense cat-and-mouse game haunt you. It’s a gripping meditation on fate and violence.

4. Spotlight (2015)

‘Spotlight’ tracks Boston journalists uncovering a church scandal. Mark Ruffalo and Rachel McAdams lead a tight ensemble in this true story.

The film’s focused storytelling and real-world stakes pull you in. It’s a powerful tale of truth and accountability.

3. Get Out (2017)

Jordan Peele’s ‘Get Out’ unfolds in a seemingly idyllic U.S. suburb, where Daniel Kaluuya uncovers a sinister secret. The social thriller stings.

Its sharp commentary and chilling twists make it unforgettable. It’s a bold, genre-defining hit set in America’s heart.

2. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

Set in a Maine prison, ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ follows Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman’s bond through hope and hardship.

The film’s timeless story and emotional weight never fade. It’s an uplifting, masterful tale of perseverance.

1. There Will Be Blood (2007)

Daniel Day-Lewis dominates ‘There Will Be Blood’ as a ruthless oilman in early 20th-century California. Paul Thomas Anderson’s epic is unrelenting.

The film’s stark deserts and intense plot sear into you. It’s a towering American saga of greed and obsession.

Which U.S.-set movie on this list hit you hardest, or is there another powerful story I missed? Share your thoughts in the comments!