Uncovering Jumanji's Hidden New Hampshire Roots

Remember the thrilling, often terrifying, board game that came to life in the 1995 classic film Jumanji? That movie, which so many of us grew up with, conjured a world where jungle animals and menacing plants burst forth from an ancient game. But did you ever pause to wonder where such a fantastical story might truly begin? Surprisingly, a significant part of its magic, at least in spirit, resides right here in the charming state of New Hampshire.

You see, while the film's main action unfolds in the fictional town of Brantford, New Hampshire, that idyllic, slightly spooky New England setting wasn't plucked entirely from thin air. It turns out the celebrated author and illustrator of the original "Jumanji" book, Chris Van Allsburg, drew heavily from his own experiences and affections for the region. Though he spent his formative years in Michigan, Van Allsburg has deep ties to New Hampshire, including a period of residence and a professorship at the nearby Rhode Island School of Design. Those childhood summers spent amidst New Hampshire's picturesque landscapes clearly left an indelible mark, shaping the very essence of Brantford.

Indeed, many fans and locals alike quickly connected Brantford to the real-life city of Keene, New Hampshire. It’s not hard to see why. Keene embodies that quintessential New England charm – historic architecture, a vibrant town square, and a sense of community that feels both timeless and welcoming. It's exactly the kind of place where you might imagine an old, mysterious board game gathering dust in an attic, waiting for unsuspecting players to roll the dice.

Of course, Hollywood being Hollywood, the actual filming didn't take place in Keene itself. Most of the movie magic was conjured far away in Vancouver, British Columbia, with some additional scenes shot in picturesque Maine. But don't let that dampen the spirit! The idea of Brantford, its very soul, unmistakably points to a New Hampshire aesthetic, and Keene perfectly encapsulates that vision.

And Keene, bless its heart, has absolutely embraced this cinematic connection. Wander through town, and you might spot "Alan's Shoes," a delightful nod to the film's main character, Alan Parrish. But the town's affection for Jumanji truly shone brightest in 2017 when it hosted a spectacular "Jumanji Festival." Imagine, if you will, streets filled with fans dressed as characters, re-enacting iconic scenes, and gathering to play board games – not just Jumanji, but all sorts! It was a truly heartwarming event, made even more special by the attendance of Robin Williams' daughter, Zelda, who helped honor her father's beloved performance.

So, the next time you find yourself captivated by the thrilling chaos of Jumanji, take a moment to appreciate its subtle, yet significant, New Hampshire roots. It’s a wonderful reminder that even the wildest tales often draw their initial spark from the quiet beauty and hidden stories of our real world.