The Nordic countries, the Balkans, and the Baltics have been increasingly popular as film locations for many years. From the snowy landscapes of Norway to the medieval architecture of Estonia, the region is filled with diverse scenery and unique cultural landmarks that make it an ideal location for filmmakers.
We thought it worth exploring why these regions make such great backdrops for film locations, showcase some of the films that have been shot there.
The Nordic countries – Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland – have long been a popular choice for filmmakers. The region’s dramatic landscapes, such as glaciers, waterfalls, and fjords, provide stunning scenery that is perfect for movies. The Nordic countries are also home to some of the most modern and architecturally interesting cities in the world, making it possible to shoot everything from historical dramas to science-fiction thrillers.
One of the most popular films shot in the Nordic countries is “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.” Directed by David Fincher, the movie was filmed in Sweden, including Stockholm, Uppsala, and Göteborg. The gritty, urban setting of the film perfectly captured the mood of the story and brought the characters to life.
Gothenburg. Credit: Per Pixel Petersson/imagebank.sweden.se
Another film shot in the Nordic countries is “The Snowman,” directed by Tomas Alfredson. The movie was filmed in Norway, and the snow-covered landscapes were a key element of the film’s atmosphere. The stark beauty of the region was an essential part of the film’s success.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty and Dr. Strangelove filmed in Greenland. The Bond film No Time to Die was filmed in many locations including the snowy Langvann region of Norway.
In Iceland the Thrones, the glaciers of Myrdalsjokull and Vatnajökull were used for scenes Beyond the Wall, as was the Hverfjall volcano. The frozen locations were used to portray the Fist of the First Men and the Frostfangs featured in season 2. Jon Snow and Ygritte’s romantic encounter during season 4 took place in a Grjótagjá lava cave, a popular tourist spot. When Daenerys helped fight the Night King and his army of wights in season 7, the conflict occurred in the Icelandic mountain and waterfall in Kirkjufell. (Source https://screenrant.com/game-thrones-filming-locations-each-season/)
Kirkjufell Mountain Winter. Credit: Siggeir Magnus Hafsteinsson/Iceland Travel
Grjotagja Lava Cave. Credit: AUDUNN LJOSMYNDARI/Visit North Iceland
In addition to its natural beauty, the Nordic region is also known for its unique architecture. Finland, in particular, has a reputation for its distinctive design aesthetic, known as “Finnish modernism.” One film that showcased this style was “Helsinki, Forever,” a documentary directed by Peter von Bagh. The film explored the city’s architecture and history, and it is an excellent example of the kind of work that can be done in the region.
Finlandia Hall / Finlandia Talo. Credit: Pete Laakso/Visit Finland
The Balkans and the Baltics also have a rich cultural history and stunning landscapes that make them popular filming locations. The Balkans, which includes countries such as Croatia, Montenegro, and Serbia, have been a popular choice for filmmakers for years. The region’s long history, diverse architecture, and Mediterranean climate make it an ideal location for movies of all genres.
Parts of “Game of Thrones” was filmed in Croatia, specifically in Dubrovnik, which was used as the setting for the fictional city of King’s Landing. The city’s historic walls and medieval architecture made it the perfect choice for the show’s producers.“Captain America: The First Avenger.” Directed by Joe Johnston, was also filmed in the Balkans. The film’s gritty, urban feel was perfectly captured by the region’s architecture and provided the perfect backdrop for the movie’s action sequences.
Lokrum Island. Credit: Aleksandar Gospi?/Croatian National Tourist Board
The Baltics, which includes countries such as Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, are also becoming increasingly popular as filming locations. The region’s medieval architecture and stunning landscapes are the perfect backdrop for period pieces and fantasy films.
One film that showcased the Baltics’ unique architecture was “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.” Directed by Andrew Adamson, the movie was filmed in various locations throughout Europe, including the historic city of Prague in the Czech Republic and the beautiful countryside of Slovenia. The film’s medieval architecture and beautiful landscapes were key elements of its success. Tsars and Catherine the Great with Helen Mirren which was filmed in Latvia. The 2016 BBC production of War and Peace was filmed in Lithuania
The Baltic region is also home to some of the most beautiful cities in the world, including Tallinn, Estonia, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors to Tallinn can explore the city’s beautiful medieval architecture and visit its many museums and film locations!
Tallinn Old Town. Credit: Aivo Oblika
This entry was posted on Tuesday, April 4th, 2023 at 8:56 am; on the subject of Balkans, Baltic Region, Nordic.