Beaufort, South Carolina, September 25, 2025
News Summary
On its premiere date, ‘The Big Chill’ marked a pivotal moment in film history with its emotional narrative centering on friendship and disillusionment among baby boomers. Set in the historic Tidalholm mansion, the film not only captured the essence of nostalgia but highlighted its cultural impact. Tidalholm, built in 1853, is now recognized as a local landmark, undergoing restoration with community involvement. The film’s success and its connection to Beaufort have elevated the area as a significant filming location, drawing tourists and storytellers alike.
Beaufort, South Carolina – On September 28, 1983, “The Big Chill,” directed by Lawrence Kasdan, premiered in theaters, marking a significant moment in film history. The movie features a talented cast, including Tom Berenger, Glenn Close, Jeff Goldblum, William Hurt, Kevin Kline, Mary Kay Place, Meg Tilly, and JoBeth Williams. The film primarily takes place in Tidalholm, a historically significant mansion located in Beaufort, South Carolina.
The plot centers around a group of baby boomers who reunite after 15 years to attend the funeral of their friend Alex, a character who tragically died by suicide, portrayed off-screen by Kevin Costner. This emotional narrative resonates with many, as it captures the struggles and disillusionment of individuals who once shared idealistic views in the 1960s.
Having been built in 1853, Tidalholm has played an important part in the region’s history, serving as a hospital during the Civil War. The mansion, affectionately known as “The Big Chill House” due to the film’s connection, was sold in March 2021 for just over $1.76 million. The new owner intends to restore the property with community involvement and cherishes its historical beauty and significance.
“The Big Chill” has left a lasting cultural impact, functioning as a generational allegory for former 1960s radicals who have become disillusioned by rampant consumerism. The film’s nostalgic soundtrack features classic tracks from the 1960s such as “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” further amplifying its emotional weight and connection to the past.
Financially, the film was a success, grossing $56.4 million against an $8 million budget, securing its status as the 15th highest-grossing film of 1983. Recognized during award season, “The Big Chill” received three Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.
Beaufort, South Carolina, has emerged as a favored filming location, with “The Big Chill” being one of several films shot in the area, which also includes “Forrest Gump” and “The Prince of Tides.” The filming has significantly bolstered Beaufort’s reputation as a tourist destination, positively influencing local pride and storytelling.
Over the years, the perception of beauty and nostalgia can shift, leading to introspections about the past. This is particularly true for Tidalholm, which has become a local landmark, its recognition stemming from “The Big Chill” and its ongoing importance to the community. The impact on the local community through film has been profound, with residents relishing in their connection to the celebrated cinematic piece.
The historical ownership of Tidalholm is also noteworthy; originally built by Edgar Fripp as a respite from his plantation that relied on slave labor, the house continues to hold tales of its complex history. The memories associated with it now form a rich narrative for Beaufort, as the community collectively embraces its cinematic and historical significance.
FAQs
When did “The Big Chill” premiere?
The film premiered on September 28, 1983.
Who directed “The Big Chill”?
“The Big Chill” was directed by Lawrence Kasdan.
Which actor played the character Alex?
Alex is portrayed off-screen by Kevin Costner.
Where was “The Big Chill” primarily filmed?
The movie was primarily filmed at Tidalholm, located in Beaufort, South Carolina.
What was Tidalholm’s historical significance?
Tidalholm functioned as a hospital during the Civil War and has been a prominent home in the area since its construction in 1853.
What was the financial success of “The Big Chill”?
The film grossed $56.4 million against a budget of $8 million, making it the 15th highest-grossing film of 1983.
How many Oscar nominations did “The Big Chill” receive?
“The Big Chill” received three Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.
What is Tidalholm’s current status?
The house is now recognized as a local landmark, known colloquially as “The Big Chill House.”
What will happen to Tidalholm under new ownership?
The new owner intends to restore Tidalholm with community input and partnership.
Key Features of “The Big Chill”
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Film Premiere | September 28, 1983 |
| Director | Lawrence Kasdan |
| Cast | Tom Berenger, Glenn Close, Jeff Goldblum, William Hurt, Kevin Kline, Mary Kay Place, Meg Tilly, JoBeth Williams |
| Filming Location | Tidalholm, Beaufort, South Carolina |
| Alex’s Portrayal | Kevin Costner (off-screen) |
| Gross Earnings | $56.4 million |
| Budget | $8 million |
| Oscar Nominations | 3, including Best Picture |
| Tidalholm Sale Price | $1.76 million (March 2021) |
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Additional Resources
- The Bitter Southerner
- Today
- Your Island News
- Island Packet
- Columbia Metropolitan
- Wikipedia: The Big Chill
- Google Search: The Big Chill
- Google Scholar: The Big Chill
- Encyclopedia Britannica: The Big Chill
- Google News: The Big Chill
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
