Keene, New Hampshire, Celebrates 30 Years of "Jumanji"
Keene, NH – This weekend, the city of Keene is celebrating its connection to the iconic film "Jumanji," which marks its 30th anniversary. The beloved movie, featuring Robin Williams, was filmed in the picturesque Central Square, where about 125 local extras helped bring the story to life in 1994.
Among the extras was Madeline Murphy, who recalls being instructed to "pretend you’re frightened" while running from imaginary elephants during a long, chilly shoot. She earned a modest $60 for her fleeting role, but the memories are priceless.
To commemorate the film, the city hosted a series of events, including the “Rhino Rumble Road Race,” where participants donned inflatable animal costumes for a fun quarter-mile dash. Other activities included a parade, scavenger hunt, and even a cast reunion.
Veteran location manager Dow Griffith revealed that coffee played a crucial role in choosing Keene as the filming location. His search for a good cup highlighted the city’s charm, leading to scenes depicting a fictional version of Brantford, New Hampshire.
Local residents fondly remember meeting Williams on set as he captured hearts with his charm and humor. In tribute to the stars lost to suicide, festival organizers emphasized mental health awareness, mirroring the community’s ongoing commitment to support those in need.
The weekend festivities serve to honor not just the film, but also the enduring spirit of the community and its links to cinematic history.
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